Jokers and Jazz
Home » Jokers and Jazz

Jokers and Jazz Bash 2026

Mark your calendar for May 2nd—an unforgettable night of live jazz, side-splitting comedy from a nationally recognized comedian, a decadent catered dinner, and a lively silent auction. Dust off your glad rags, bring your friends, and step into a sparkling evening of laughs, music, and celebration.

This year, we’re also honoring our Community Champions—individuals, businesses, and organizations making a meaningful difference in our community. Your attendance helps raise critical funds for DSSW’s programs, including summer and spring break programs for children, adult independence-building programs, and more, supporting individuals with Down syndrome as they thrive and grow.

It’s the party of the year—a night of glitz, glamour, community, and giving back you won’t want to miss!

Proceeds remain local and support upcoming programs, including Summer of Discovery, and continued outreach and support.

Event partners

We would be thrilled to have your support. Please consider joining us as an event partner this year.  Proceeds remain local and support upcoming programs, including Summer of Discovery, and the Job Skills Development Program.

Nominate a ChampioN!

Each year, DSSW celebrates those who make a difference. A Community Champion is an organization, business, individual or group that uplifts the special needs community through their actions and commitment to creating a more inclusive world. If you know someone who embodies DSSW’s core values: Advocacy, Awareness, Development and Inclusion, nominate them below. Your nomination helps honor the individuals who make our community stronger every day. 

Past Honorees

2025 Bash Honorees

Eagle Riders #3251

Ben French, Shepherd’s Way

Jason Crippen, What’s Next Disability

Employment Services

2024 Bash Honorees

Staci Flanagan, Speech Pathologist

Kim Mudd, Special Olympics

Roxana Smith, Resource Teacher

2023 Bash Honorees

Pam Chiles, Rainbows, retired

Seth Lindberg, Young Life Capernaum

Averie Mountain, Just a Kid Like Me

2022 Bash Honorees

Myra Jacobs, Catholic Diocese of Wichita

Jenny Mitchell, Laughing Feet

Self Advocates: Matthew Taylor, Kaitlyn Eads, Sammy Rader

2019 Bash Honorees

Families Together, Inc.

Wesley Medical Center

Quincy’s Bar & Grill

Mark Brooks/Trinity Academy Soccer Team

2018 Bash Honorees

Shobana Kubendran, geneticist, KU Wichita Pediatrics

Nate Robertson, Wichita Wingnuts

Scott and Denise Sawyer, volunteer award

Valerie Wall, Friendship Fields

2017 Bash Honorees

Ron Estes, KS State Treasurer

Dr. Elaine Harrington, Via Christi Clinic

Caitlin Link, SPED Educator

Debbie John, DJA Financial Aid Services, Inc.

Jokers and Jazz event gallery