We often ask members of our PALS Family "Why PALS?" to learn how our mission has impacted their lives. PALS participant Chris Lopes responded with the following:

“I can be myself, and I always feel accepted.”

Dear PALS Family,

I’ve been going to PALS since 2017, when I did PALS New Jersey. Since then, I’ve done PALS New York and PALS Holiday two times! My friend, Joey, told me about PALS – it was life changing! I’ve met so many friends, with and without Down syndrome, by going to PALS. At PALS, I can be myself, and I always feel accepted.

One of my favorite PALS activities is PALS Olympics… that magic moment when we are all connected as friends. I also love being myself, dressing up in the fashion show, and of course, karaoke. I really love everything about PALS! My favorite memory was getting to know Carson when we bonded over our favorite TV shows and our favorite songs. We both love DC shows!

I think everyone should be involved with PALS, because when you are there, you are included and have so much fun meeting new friends and making memories. The friendships I’ve made through PALS continue after the program. I love to text, Facetime, or Zoom with my buddies from PALS.

PALS helps show the world that people with Down syndrome deserve to be included and are good friends. I’m so thankful and happy to be able to be a part of PALS.

PALS love,

Chris Lopes ❤️