The seventh annual Night of Champions Thursday at the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa – Hotel Grand Ballroom was emceed by celebrity chef Jamie Deen.

This event celebrated differently abled adults, including those with Down syndrome, and recognized the businesses that employ them. "Where Hope Grows" actor David DeSanctis, who has Down syndrome, was the guest speaker.

This year, the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society honored the following individuals and businesses as the 2016 Champions: Willie Baker, Port Wentworth Police and Fire; Charles Brown, St. Joseph’s/Candler; Lee Brown, Five Guys – Pooler; Ryan Peck, Publix – Bluffton; Monique Shields, Zaxby’s; Frank Williams III, Goodwill. The President’s Award was presented to Jay Thompson of Xcel Strategies.

According to the National Down Syndrome Congress, as many as 80 percent of adults with Down syndrome are unemployed. LDSS hopes its ongoing awareness campaign can cut into that statistic and increase the level of understanding required to recognize the skills and contributions present in these individuals.

For more information on LDSS’ annual Night of Champions, got to nightofchampions.org.