Adelaide Football Club coach Neil Craig has accepted an invitation to be the first patron of Foundation 21, which supports South Australian families with children with Down Syndrome.

He said, among many things, it was a personal honour because an uncle had Down Syndrome.

"I am glad to be patron of Foundation 21," Craig said. "Through my family history I have an understanding. So far I have only been involved with the younger children, and they are all great kids. If I can help Foundation 21 in any way, no matter how small, I will be happy to do so."

Craig, who was announced as patron of Foundation 21 at a Artists and Models Charity Dinner on Saturday night, has also helped the organisation through an annual major fundraising event, it "Buddy Walk", where the public can demonstrate its support by walking with children with Down Syndrome.

Foundation 21 founder and chairman, John Solomon, said the organisation was naturally extremely honoured to have Craig as Patron.

"From a board point of view, if we can learn only one thing from the professional and disciplined manner in which he runs his team we will benefit greatly," Mr Solomon said.

"Among the many positive things we focus on is what a child with Down Syndrome can do, rather than cannot, because in 15 or 20 years we want these bright children to demonstrate their ability in the workforce. The appointment of Neil as patron is a big step in helping to create a better awareness of the bright future children with Down Syndrome have in life.

"Neil has been genuine with his willingness to help our organisation, and on behalf of all of the families and their children we sincerely thank him for his tremendous support."

Foundation 21 was formed four years ago by Mr Solomon, and is run by 17 regular volunteers. It is a non-profit organisation relying mainly on corporate and public support. It does not receive Commonwealth or State Government funding.