The Rosa DeLauro and Tom Cole GLOBAL Advancement Awards, presented at the AcceptAbility Gala in Washington, DC, will be given to two outstanding individuals with Down syndrome who are pursuing post-secondary education opportunities. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) are two of GLOBAL’s Congressional Champions who have shown unwavering dedication to ensure that NIH research funding for Down syndrome continues to increase every year. Selected awardees are asked to attend the AcceptAbility Gala, on Wednesday, May 21 at the Marriott Marquis Washington, DC, where the awards will be presented.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR TWO WINNERS GABBY PARILLON AND LEO WEEKS! EACH WILL RECEIVE A $2,000 AWARD!
Eligibility:
- Based on the applicant’s ability, the individual must show proven interest in pursuing post-secondary education opportunities and be involved in their community.
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have Down syndrome or other IDD, and is a U.S. citizen.
- Awards may be used towards a college education, post-secondary education program, vocational program, therapeutic training, or any other program that will assist the awardee in achieving their dreams. The program to which the funds are going to be applied must be approved by the scholarship selection committee.
- Recipients agree to attend with a guest the AcceptAbility Gala, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at the Marriott Marquis Washington, DC, where the awards will be presented. Recipient will be provided a complimentary ticket to the event plus one guest. Recipient must pay for their own travel (airfare and hotel if needed) to D.C. for the event.
- Recipients agree to be included in promotional materials for this and future years’ Rosa DeLauro and Tom Cole GLOBAL Advancement Awards. Recipients agree to provide updates to GLOBAL after funds are utilized.
- Recipients may not be persons who are, or at any time in the last 5 years have been, in a position to exercise significant influence over GLOBAL (i.e. board members, ambassadors, family members, etc.).
Instructions:
Complete the below application including:
- A 300 minimum to 500 maximum word essay on the following: Describe your plans for the future and how participation in ongoing education will help you reach your goals, be included in your community, and help you make an impact in the world.
- Upload one letter of recommendation (from a teacher, coach, program coordinator, etc.) optional
- Upload a photo of yourself (high-resolution jpeg file requested) *required
Awards are Closed
Direct any questions to programs@globaldownsyndrome.org or 720-548-5605
Applications are closed. Check back in 2026!
