Massachusetts Fire Chiefs Step Up for Down Syndrome Awareness

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The Bristol County Fire Chiefs Association, along with chiefs from across Massachusetts, came together last week for a good old-fashioned horseshoe tournament and a great cause.

Their efforts raised nearly $5,000 for 21 FrienDS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and children with Down syndrome.

A Grassroots Mission That Grew

Founded nearly 18 years ago by Kim Tripp Legendre, 21 FrienDS started around a kitchen table. What began with four families sharing coffee and support has grown into a statewide nonprofit with more than 800 members connected through its Facebook group.

“We provide education, support, and advocacy for families who have children with Down syndrome,” Legendre explained. “Everything we do is at no cost to the families. We cover seminars, resources, and even help when families are facing long hospital stays.”

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Each March, the group hosts a celebration around World Down Syndrome Awareness Day, drawing hundreds of attendees, and every fall, they fund educators to attend statewide forums. Again, the event is free of charge to the families involved.

Fire Chiefs Step Up

This year’s fundraising boost came courtesy of fire chiefs representing Bristol, Barnstable, Norfolk and Plymouth counties. The horseshoe tournament, held in September, was the latest in a tradition started by retired Easton Fire Chief Kevin Partridge, who launched the event in 2014. Since 2016, the tournament has consistently supported 21 FrienDS.

For Legendre, being handed the oversized check during the event was deeply moving.

“It’s very humbling,” she said. “I started this organization when my daughter Brenna (who has Down syndrome) was six months old. To see it grow like this, and to have another organization want to support us in such a meaningful way, means the world.”

Community Support Extends Beyond the Field

The generosity doesn’t stop with the fire chiefs.

Elks Lodge #118 in Fall River has been a steadfast partner, awarding grants to 21 FrienDS over several years. The Lodge will host a music bingo fundraiser on November 21, continuing its commitment to the cause.

“All money we raise goes directly to the families,” Legendre emphasized. “We’ve also helped fund local Special Olympics programs as well as other organizations that asked for support. Every event we do is free for the families and designed to encourage friendships.”

Looking Ahead

The nonprofit’s next big fundraiser is a golf tournament scheduled for October 4 that's already sold out, a sign of the community’s dedication to the mission.

For Legendre, the support fuels her determination to keep carrying the weight of leading a nonprofit.

“These things are huge for us. It’s stressful at times because I want to help as many families as possible, but moments like this give us the ability to keep giving back,” she said.

To learn more about upcoming events or to get involved, visit the 21 FrienDS Facebook page.