How to Support NDSS Through Everyday Purchases and Events

You can support the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in several ways that don't require writing a separate check: donating cash-back rewards through the Upside app, joining Team NDSS for a marathon, buying gear from the NDSS Shop, or taking part in a Buddy Walk. Each route has different time, cost, and effort requirements, so the right one depends on whether you want to give money passively, fundraise actively, or show up in person.

Donate everyday cash back through the Upside app

NDSS partners with Upside, described on its site as a free cash back app that rewards you for everyday purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants. When you earn cash back through Upside, you can choose to donate those rewards to help individuals with Down syndrome thrive.

How it works:

1. Sign up for Upside and make purchases at participating gas stations, grocery stores, or restaurants.
2. Earn cash back on those purchases.
3. When redeeming your rewards, select NDSS as the recipient of your donation.

What to expect: This is the lowest-effort option because it redirects money you were already spending on routine purchases. The trade-off is that the amount depends entirely on how much you buy through participating merchants, so it's better suited to ongoing, passive support than to hitting a specific fundraising target.

Join Team NDSS for a marathon

NDSS fields a team for marathon events, including races in Paris. The site lists these application windows:

Both are framed as running "to help create a world where individuals with Down syndrome thrive." If you're considering this route, note that it involves travel to Paris, a training commitment for a half or full marathon, and an application process rather than open registration — apply through the links on the NDSS site for the distance you want.

Shop for NDSS gear

The NDSS site includes a Shop section for NDSS Gear. Buying branded merchandise is a straightforward way to support the organization while getting something in return, and it works as a one-time action rather than an ongoing commitment. Check the Shop page directly for current items and any details on how purchases support the mission.

Take part in a Buddy Walk

The NDSS Buddy Walk® is the organization's flagship fundraising and awareness event. The site highlights an NDSS NYC Buddy Walk® and notes that the Buddy Walk® will "highlight 500+ faces in Times Square." Buddy Walks combine fundraising with community visibility, so they suit people who want to participate in person, raise money through a team, and help raise awareness at the same time. Look for a walk near you or the NYC event if you want the highest-visibility option.

Which option fits you

• Want to give with no extra spending or time? Use the Upside app and route your cash back to NDSS.
• Want a physical challenge and a fundraising goal? Apply for Team NDSS in Paris for the half or full marathon.
• Want something simple and tangible? Buy gear from the NDSS Shop.
• Want to fundraise and build community locally? Join or organize around a Buddy Walk.

Other ways to stay connected

NDSS maintains a Newsroom with press releases and policy statements, and its site links to Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok. For direct questions, the NDSS Helpline is toll-free at 800-221-4602, and the office is reachable Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM ET at 1155 15th Street NW, Suite 540, Washington, DC 20005.