Providing opportunity for people with Down syndrome

Paul M. Mitchell, a financial professional with MassMutual Greater Philadelphia, became involved with the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware because of his 12-year-old nephew Maddex, who has Down syndrome. For Mitchell's family, the initial diagnosis during his sister-in-law’s pregnancy came with some fear, questions, and a struggle to find resources.

"Sometimes, when you think of Down syndrome, you may think of it being something that needs to be fixed; these individuals don't need fixing," said Mitchell. "But many times they do need other resources that you or I might not necessarily need for everyday life."

Down syndrome is one of the most common chromosomal conditions, which occurs when a person has 47 chromosomes instead of 46. According to the DSA of Delaware, in the United States alone, there are more than 400,000 people living with — and about 6,000 babies born with — Down syndrome every year.

The extra chromosome (chromosome 21) impacts the cognitive, social, and physical abilities of those living with Down syndrome. When resources are available to families of individuals with Down syndrome, they can live more fulfilling and healthier lives.

Mitchell says the DSA of Delaware has been a tremendous resource for Maddex and his family over the last decade, as the organization offers weekly programs, camps, and educational resources.

Founded in 1979 by parents of children with Down syndrome, the DSA of Delaware continues to be driven by parents, family members, and others who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with Down syndrome.

Mitchell has helped raise thousands of dollars through participating in marathons, and in 2021, he helped launch the organization’s annual golf outing, raising over $50,000. in 2022, Mitchell joined the finance committee and now serves as the treasurer, assisting with budget development, analysis, and income diversification, as well as ensuring the organization's long-term financial success.

In 2023, Mitchell helped expand DSA of Delaware’s reach into southern Delaware to support families who in some cases were traveling two hours to participate in programs or seek resources. When the DSA of Delaware received a $421,000 federal grant through the American Rescue Plan, he helped the organization budget for a second location in Milton, Delaware, which opened this past January. This new location has helped the DSA expand from supporting 450 families to around 580.

Community Service Award donation

Mitchell's involvement with DSA earned the organization a $25,000 donation from the MassMutual Foundation as part of its 2024 Community Service Awards program. You can learn more about the program here.

The funding will go directly toward helping individuals with Down syndrome find opportunities in Delaware and surrounding areas to engage with their community.