From the books series
that won the
Organization of the year 2023
comes a new project...
The Kelly and Kelso book series received an incredible response from schools and families worldwide—from Poland and Australia to Pennsylvania and Texas. Educators and parents alike expressed their gratitude, saying, “Thank you!” for a resource that beautifully teaches what it means to love someone with Down syndrome.
Even the mayor of Dallas joined in, proclaiming Kelly’s birthday as “Down Right Perfect Day,” encouraging education about Down syndrome. Inspired by this overwhelming support, creator Jordan Burk expanded the series to include stories highlighting vitiligo, alopecia, spina bifida, and more.
Through the show, we continue this mission, celebrating children with diverse differences and showing the world what it means to love unconditionally.
In the U.S. today, one in four people (26%) have a disability and yet only 3.1% of characters on-screen are disabled. In children's television representation is even worse -
less than 1%.
© 2023 Center for Scholars & Storytellers
Let's change that!
About the show
Meet the Crew!
Meet the "real" Kelly!
A little background about the show’s namesake, Kelly. He was born in 1952. His parents received a lot of criticism from family and peers saying things like, ‘He should be institutionalized!’ Something which was very common in that day and age. But, they chose to raise Kelly alongside his older and younger siblings; this decision caused him to flourish and develop quickly.
After many years of being raised in a small country town, things changed when the health of his parents declined and he moved in with his older brother in Dallas. One of things Kelly loved most about Dallas was his nephew, Jordan. They shared a special bond and many fun-filled adventures.
Kelly’s life was an inspiration to all he met and is continuing to impact others through his message of love, joy and acceptance. Kelly’s life was not restricted by the opinions and limitations set by others. Remember you had purpose before anyone had an opinion.
Meet the Author!
“I believe representation is HUGE! In the years I spent as a caregiver to my Uncle Kelly, who had Down syndrome, the children would always approach curiously and ask questions about Kelly. I always loved to answer their questions, and as I looked to find what kind of resources were out there about people with Down syndrome, I realized there wasn't much that showed what it's like to truly love someone with Down syndrome. That inspired me to start writing children's books that help kids understand that even though some people may not look or act as they do, that doesn't mean they don't need friends, too.
- Jordan Burk
In Partnership with
