Thomas Francis McNulty, IV, 1942-2002

World Down Syndrome Day, March 21, 2026

The FCIDD owes much of its success to the influence and bequests of Tom and Mary McNulty, parents of Tommy, who was born with Down Syndrome in 1942 and endowed the foundation after their deaths. When Tommy passed away in 2002, he also left a bequest to the Foundation, and these two funds account for over 85% of the organization's endowment.

The acknowledgment of the abilities of individuals with Down Syndrome, rather than confining them in hospitals, began with people like the McNultys, who were passionate about allowing Tommy to be himself and live life to the fullest of his abilities. No focus on disabilities, only on abilities. And Tommy's were plentiful.

Focus on abilities, not disabilities

He did just that, providing joy, love, insight, and humor to every individual he met and today, those who work for, volunteer for, and benefit from the FCIDD have much to be thankful for due to the McNulty vision.