Self-Advocate Businesses

Nate's Funky Pics sells his photos at numerous markets and craft fairs in the suburban Philadelphia region. He posts these photos on his social media sites (Facebook and Instagram) and his Etsy store where he sells the prints. Nate has won awards for his photography including the 2017 Perspective Award from the Down Syndrome Association in London, England. Nate donates a portion of his sales to PALS Programs – the summer camp that he has attended since he was 15.

No Rulz Art was created to provide a social and recreational atmosphere for persons with differing abilities to have an outlet for creativity while gaining meaningful employment. With each artist as a business stakeholder, we are committed to demonstrating that everyone is capable of contributing when given the opportunity. Our extensive inventory of tie-dye apparel ensures that we have the perfect tie-dye garment to showcase your personality.

"Olivia the Series" is a collection of children's books written by Engelic Everett that were designed to inspire and uplift readers of all ages! With a focus on themes like anti-bullying, respect, manners, and self-compassion, each book aims to foster kindness and empathy. Grab your copies today and join Engelic and Olivia in spreading positivity — one story at a time.

Poppin Joe's Gourmet Kettle Korn was established to show that Joe Steffy, a young man with autism and Down syndrome, is able to work. He is the CEO of this popular business that gives him an opportunity to do a variety of tasks he can chose between while at work each day. The business sells fresh popped kettle korn at festivals, and in local retail outlets.

Precious Kreations, Inc. was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 Pandemic by Precious who happens to have Down syndrome and her mother. PK offers fashionable jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, charms and bracelets wearable by children and adults. In addition a full jewelry collection, t-shirts, hair accessories and more. Precious is a Diva Fashionista shouting “Just because you have a disAbility; does not mean you can't be stylish”.

Zach loves science and working with his hands. With everyone “washing their hands”, Zach and his mom (who works in health care) created the recipes for soothing, organic, artisan goat milk and honey soaps. Handmade in small batches- from Zachary's hands to yours.

Queen Semone Jewelry represents Down syndrome and is home made with the help of a person with Down syndrome. This company is owned by an entrepreneur with Down syndrome . Please check out our website for our collection of jewelry and other products!

I started Raquel Beautiful to inspire others to value others and themselves! I make hand created and custom designed jewelry and t-shirts, each with a special note that says “You are beautiful!” When you purchase an item from me, a portion of the proceeds goes to provide inspirational items for those that are struggling with challenges and to benefit charitable organizations.

Geoffrey Mikol is a professional artist that owns River Bend Gallery with his family, in historic Galena, Illinois. As a person born with Down syndrome, Geoffrey has found a special connection with photography as a means of expressing himself. His artwork is stunning and often technically difficult, catching elusive light that the eye sees but that cameras often miss.

At Rosemerry Sparkle, Britni Allen handcrafts each piece, thoughtfully selecting colors that bring her unique vision to life. The name Rosemerry Sparkle reflects Britni's character and embodies the love, joy, and excitement she pours into every creation.

On December 9th, 2022, Santiago becomes the first artist with Down syndrome and autism to release an NFT collection of 1,000 unique artworks. Santiago paints in an abstract expressionist style, hence the collection name: ABSTRACTO. Santiago is 16 years old and non-verbal, but his art speaks loud and clear.

Over the course of 5 months, Santiago painted over 200 paintings. The artist used a diverse range of materials, including oil paint, acrylic paint, gesso, oil pastel, and charcoal. Santiago’s paintings were all scanned to digital format. Next, following an algorithmic editing technique, different elements of the paintings were combined to create brand new digital artworks. As such, Santiago’s 200 physical paintings yielded 1,000 unique digital artworks comprising the complete ABSTRACTO collection.

Santiago is the main beneficiary of the collection, and this will provide for access to specialized care for the rest of his life. Santiago's loved ones opted to give the artist a platform for him to shine on his own, and for him to create value in the world through his art. ABSTRACTO is meant for those who see the human sensibility of Santiago’s story, and for collectors of fine art by emerging artists from underrepresented minorities. Furthermore, ABSTRACTO champions the Down syndrome and autism communities. A portion of the proceeds is destined towards donations to the National Down Syndrome Society, and the National Autism Association. Santiago embraced what makes him different. Instead of looking at his disability as a weakness, he turned it into his greatest strength. That is because what makes Santiago unique is exactly what gives him a distinct artistic perspective, and what makes his art special.

Visit the website and the Twitter page @SantiagoMakesArt.
 

I want the world to know that having Down syndrome isn't that big of a deal. I design every shirt with a message, and It's my message. Nobody tells me what to say on my shirts. Let's all laugh, because that's my favorite thing, and I bet its your favorite thing too. Let your shirt speak for you. It's about the positive message and shouting your value because you belong. You rock!