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EMPOWER SOCIETY 21, INC NFP

Empower Society 21, Inc. NFP is dedicated to empowering and transforming families of individuals with Down syndrome, Autism, and other abilities. Our mission is to break barriers, create opportunities, and build a more inclusive world. Explore our initiatives and discover how you can make a lasting impact in the lives of families and individuals we serve.

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OUR MISSION & HISTORY

At Empower Society 21, our mission is to create a world where individuals with special needs and their families have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve. We are committed to driving global change through advocacy,

community engagement, and innovative solutions that empower families, strengthen connections, and transform lives.

With a steadfast dedication to inclusivity and empowerment, we work to bridge gaps in resources, influence policy, and ensure every individual and family can thrive and exceed expectations.

 

Together, we believe that All Things Are Possible.

Who Are We

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Founded in 2019 in Chicago, Illinois, Empower Society 21 was born from the love and inspiration of two sisters, Tiana and Tinesha Williams. Tinesha, who had Down syndrome, profoundly shaped Tiana’s journey as a caretaker and advocate, igniting a lifelong passion to create meaningful change in the lives of individuals with special needs and their families.

Recognizing a pressing need—parents and caretakers often struggle to find accessible resources and services—Tiana set out to bridge these gaps. Through extensive research, she discovered a lack of accessible tools and support, inspiring the creation of Empower Society and its innovative mobile app, designed to connect families with vital services, resources, and businesses within their communities.

In 2020, the sisters launched their first successful mobile school supply drive, receiving tremendous support from the community. Tragically, this milestone coincided with the loss of Tinesha. Though the grief was profound, Tiana transformed her heartache into action, honoring her sister’s legacy through Empower Society’s programs and initiatives.

journey of empowerment, hope, and endless possibilities.

 

Our Mission in Action

Empower Society 21 is committed to driving global change for individuals with special needs. Our advocacy has influenced significant legislative victories, including securing a $1 wage increase for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in Illinois and supporting critical legislation on organ transplants, Alzheimer’s initiatives, and public health funding for congenital heart disease.

We partner with organizations like the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and actively participate in initiatives including the Best Buddies Friendship Walk, NADS baskets program, GiGi’s Playhouse, Chicagoland Buddy Walk, and the Autism Partnership Foundation. In 2024, Tiana was honored as NDSS Ambassador of the Year and represented the community at Hill Day, advocating and meeting directly with Congress on legislative priorities affecting families with Down syndrome & other abilities.

Programs & Impact

Since our founding, Empower Society has empowered over 1,000 families, offering programs designed to meet their unique needs:

  • Mobile App Directory & Daily Empowerment Tools: Connects families to resources, delivers daily in-app motivational messages, affirmation cards, and educational materials such as eBooks and mindset books.

  • Parent & Sibling Workshops: Provides mentorship, guidance, and a supportive community.

  • Life Skills, Job Readiness & College Prep Programs: Prepares young adults with the tools they need to succeed.

  • School Supply Drives: Over 1,500 students and families have been supported, ensuring education is accessible to all.

  • Bridging Home & School: Strengthening the connection between families, teachers, and school staff.

  • Creative & Leadership Opportunities: Art workshops, Ambassador meetings, and mentorship programs.

  • Community & Advocacy: Family conferences, legislative advocacy, and connecting families to essential services.

 

Strategic Partnerships

We collaborate with Visionary Life Academy to provide life coaching, purpose-driven guidance, and relationship coaching, and with Kingdom Billionaire Academy (KBA) to offer income opportunities, financial literacy, and wealth-building tools, equipping families with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.

At Empower Society 21, we are dedicated to transforming lives, one family at a time. Together, we are creating a world where all individuals, regardless of ability, have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve.

Join us on this journey of empowerment, hope, and endless possibilities.

Empower Society 21: Global Change... Believing that All Things Are Possible.

HIGHLIGHTS.

OUR PARTNERS

At Empower Society 21, Inc. NFP, we believe in the power of collaboration. We are proud to partner with a diverse network of organizations and individuals who share our commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. Together, we create impactful programs and initiatives that transform the lives of individuals with Down syndrome, autism, and other diverse abilities.

Our valued partners, generous sponsors, and dedicated donors play a crucial role in helping us achieve our mission. Their support enables us to expand our reach, enhance our services, and make a lasting difference in our community.

Join us on this journey of transformation and discover how, together, we are making an impact. Learn more about our partners and the incredible work we’re doing to uplift and empower individuals and families.

Picture of sponsors, partners, and donors supporting Empower Society 21, Inc. in its mission to empower families
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