Naila Crow, a young athlete with Down syndrome, finds acceptance and growth on the soccer field thanks to the patient guidance of Coach Eric Diaz. With the support of her parents and a welcoming community, Naila’s journey highlights the importance of genuine inclusion, understanding, and the transformative power of sports for athletes of all abilities.

On Houston Life, we met Trey Brandt. He's got big dreams of becoming a country artist; with the help of the Dash Gordon Foundation, they're slowly becoming a reality. Watch the video about to hear his heartwarming story about his love for his mom and how the foundation continues to lift up and provide opportunities for those with special needs.

Bitty & Beau's is more than just a coffee shop, it's a reminder to treat everyone with kindness and respect. With 20 locations in 13 states and counting, their aim is to promote inclusion in the workplace and change the way the world views people with disabilities. Watch their entire interview with Houston Life's Derrick Shore who stopped by for a cup.

6-year-old Haddie Christensen was part of National Down Syndrome Society Times Square Video presentation.

Haddie Christensen will be part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video presentation.

Humble ISD sub allegedly assaulted special needs student, washed their mouth out with soap

A monitoring system is helping people in Fort Bend County keep track of loved ones who are at risk of wandering.

Starved and severely abused. It’s what one Brazoria County woman said happened to her 51-year-old brother who has Down Syndrome, and it all allegedly happened at the hands of the man who was supposed to be taking care of him.

Mattel, the parent company of Barbie, announced the addition of a new Barbie doll with Down Syndrome, in a step toward inclusivity.

When Benita Leon discovered she was pregnant, she and her husband were overjoyed with excitement, hopes and plans for their baby’s future. Those hopes and plans came to sudden halt when a doctor delivered the news that their baby was diagnosed with down syndrome. Uncertain for what the future would now hold for her child, Leon felt overwhelmed and helpless. Luckily, help was on the way to guide her and her family through their journey.

Katie Herrygers opened the month of October with the following message for her Facebook friends: “(It's) Down Syndrome Awareness Month and I'm here to answer any questions and share stories if...

SUGAR LAND, Texas – People with special needs in Fort Bend County can now benefit from a program that helps people get home safely if found alone or in times of emergency. The system includes a current digital picture, demographic information and caregiver contacts. According to the Fort Bend website, Fort Bend County residents are eligible who have a cognitive impairment or disability that may affect their ability to communicate. The program also requires that anyone enrolling an individual or themselves be either a family member or legal guardian of the individual. The information is placed in a database that can be accessed in a police vehicle or at the police station.

HOUSTON – United Memorial Medical Center has rolled out a new tool in the fight against coronavirus. This mobile testing unit is the first of its kind in the Houston area, said UMMC spokeswoman Duni Hebron. “We just stepped up and did what we think is right for us to do.”On Wednesday, the mobile testing unit rolled up to The Jubilee Autism and Down Syndrome Center of Texas in southeast Houston. “So, we appreciate it very much.”The mobile testing unit offers more than testing but a peace of mind. We’re very grateful for it.”For more information about the UMMC coronavirus mobile testing unit, call 1-866-333-COVID (1-866-333-26843) or visit www.ummcscreening.com/.