Down to Box, a fitness program that empowers individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities, returns to serve Sussex County communities.
MILTON, Del. — The Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (DSADE) and Five Points Boxing Club are collaborating to bring Down to Box back to communities in Sussex County, Del. The program serves individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities ages 14+, helping participants develop coordination, self-defense, and physical fitness through boxing techniques.
Down to Box was founded in 2018 by DSADE Executive Director Lauren Camp Gates and Knockout Boxing and Fitness owner Jonathan Gainey. They saw a need for more programming for adults with Down syndrome and other disabilities that incorporated boxing techniques into an engaging group exercise atmosphere. Since its founding, Down to Box has expanded to nearly 20 locations across the country, from Jacksonville, Fla. to Phoenix, Ariz. Nearly a decade later, boxers still gather every Tuesday night at the original Down to Box location at Gainey’s gym in Newark, Del.
The DSADE has held Down to Box in Sussex County throughout the years, but the revamped program at Five Points Boxing Club in Harbeson, Del. aims to re-energize the boxing classes with new coaches and a new location.
“Five Points Boxing approached us about getting involved in Down to Box,” said Camp Gates. “Their facility and their passionate coaches will help us start an exciting new chapter for the program and serve people who are looking to be part of a community that will challenge them.”
This project is a step in the DSADE’s continued goal to expand its reach into Sussex County, which has also included opening an office location in Milton, Del. in 2024.
The DSADE and Five Points Boxing Club are holding a Down to Box open house on July 31 from 5:30-6:30 PM at the gym (18388 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE 19958). Interested volunteers and participants are welcome to attend—no registration required. The first session will be held on Wednesday evenings in August from 5:00-6:00 PM. Participants can register here.
