Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month with Todd “Spike” Valway and Bello Machre
In honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month, Bello Machre celebrates Todd “Spike” Valway — a talented woodworker and artist featured on CBS Baltimore. With support from Bello Machre’s Community Development and Employment Services, Spike turns creativity and determination into opportunity, inspiring others to embrace inclusion and independence.
Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness and Community Inclusion
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time to celebrate creativity, resilience, and community. Todd “Spike” Valway, who receives support through Bello Machre, was recently featured on CBS Baltimore alongside Dr. Robert Ireland, our President and CEO. Together, they shared how love and opportunity help people like Spike thrive.
Meet Todd “Spike” Valway, a Bello Machre Artist and Advocate
A talented woodworker, Spike transforms raw materials into beautiful works of art. With the support of his team, he’s mastered laser engraving to create intricate, meaningful designs. One of his favorites reads, “Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”
That courage shines through everything he makes. His artwork will also be featured in the upcoming documentary Thriving Together: The Power of Inclusion, produced by the Community Media Center of Carroll County. The film highlights four individuals, including Spike, as they share their stories of independence, purpose, and belonging.
How Bello Machre Supports People with Down Syndrome
At Bello Machre, we’re proud to support people with Down Syndrome across all ages. Through our community-based programs, residential group homes, and employment supports, we provide a lifetime of loving care centered on each person’s goals and dreams — not their diagnosis. Whether someone wants to build new skills, find meaningful work, or connect with their community, we’re here every step of the way.
“It’s all about loving care and opportunity,” said Dr. Ireland. “Spike is a great example of what happens when people are supported and empowered to reach their full potential.”
Community Development and Employment Services
Spike receives Community Development Services (CDS) and Employment Services through Bello Machre — programs that help him stay active, creative, and connected to his community.
Community Development Services (CDS)
Our Community Development Services offer fulfilling day programs for adults with developmental disabilities through customized, community-based experiences that promote social, recreational, and educational growth. These programs are staffed at a 1-to-4 ratio, and transportation is provided for participants.
Employment Services
Through our Employment Services, Bello Machre helps adults with developmental disabilities find meaningful work in their communities. We provide job coaching, job development, on-site training and support, and employment opportunities designed to help each person succeed.
Inspiring Independence and Possibility Through Loving Care
Spike’s story reminds us what’s possible when people are supported, encouraged, and given the chance to live life on their own terms. Watch his CBS interview above and catch Thriving Together: The Power of Inclusion on December 2.