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.Â
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.














