Self-Advocate Businesses

Nate is 19, and is the CEO of his own Hawaiian shirt company. 21 Pineapples! Nate has been on the radio, tv and has over a hundred gold medals from the Special Olympics. After starting 21 pineapples, he hit one million in sales in merely 6 months. He is also known as the king of TikTok with over 600k followers. Nate was the lead model in this year‘s LA fashion week. He has modeled for companies such as Culver’s. Nate will be featured in a music video that will launch on October 1 for a very inspiring country artist. Nate's success is only beginning, but he loves to share his love throughout the world.
 

A Little Something Extra was created in 2018, by Anthony and Michelle Norwood, so their son Hunter could have an employment opportunity. Today, there are more than 20 young adults who are trained ice cream experts and work alongside Hunter. A Little Something Extra Ice Cream is truly changing the world one ice cream at a time!

Jeremiah has a contagious bubbly personality that stands out everywhere he goes. He greets everyone he meets with a smile and treats people with genuine kindness. Jeremiah loves beaded necklaces. It's more of an obsession! In 2024, we decided to launch a family business that allows him to spread his joy with the world through his beaded creations.

Artist Joshua Roy has been developing his drawing and painting talent since he was a young child. His detailed artwork has become over 100 greeting cards as well as matted and framed prints. Joshua lives and works independently in Orange County, California.

At Aidan's Salsa, we envision a vibrant community where fresh, high-quality salsa brings people together.

allie art is the colorful creation of Allie Guard, a young woman with Down syndrome from Cincinnati who is drawn to the magic of color. She fills intricate patterns with bright hues to create graphic landscapes, each with unique qualities of movement and emotion. After completing a design, the artwork is either framed for display, turned into wearable art in jewelry and accessories, or added to usable items.

Angel Babies Boutique is inspired to bring more awareness to the Down Syndrome community. This Boutique will delivery limited time only designer T-shirts, Hats and Paintings. Thank you in advance for spreading more awareness and shopping here at Angel Babies Boutique.

Anna is a unique and gifted young lady pursuing her passion. Creating life expressions we can all relate to represented on canvas, paper and card stock. Check out the many different cards at Anna's Art including the Assortment of Animal Cards and the many different cards featuring flowers!

Hello, I am an artist/soap maker living in in Ohio. About six years ago I began making goat milk and shey butter melt and pour soaps for my family and gifts. I loved painting the soaps and using the herbs from my garden. The essential oils smell great too. I really enjoy making personal soaps for our friends special occasions. Come check out April's Cottage Soaps at my online store!

Joel is 'J Positive', a gifted artist, and a young man with Down syndrome. He launched his online business as a way to help overcome some of his mental health challenges resulting from Covid isolation. Joel has developed his unique artistic style over many years, and is now selling his joyous designs on clothing, art, and accessories. He says, "My nickname is 'J Positive' because I am a positive person. It makes me feel very good when people like my art."

10% of proceeds are donated to organizations supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.

As a certified life coach, I help people make progress in their lives to attain greater well-being. Clarifying your goals, identifying the obstacles holding you back, and coming up with strategies are just a couple of ways I can help you. I primarily serve people with disabilities and their families, but love helping everyone achieve their goals. When you donate to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), you'll receive a complimentary 15-minute consultation as my way of giving back and supporting positive change in the Down syndrome community. Contact me today to get started!

Austin is serving up custom Dawgs. These are not your everyday hot dogs, but an Austin's Underdawg! Your guests will experience love at first bite! Advocacy, awareness, inclusion, independence and a living wage is within reach in your community. Investing in an Underdawg's Franchise is the first step to meaningful self-employment for your family member.