Down Syndrome Association Newsletter - 7/15

Down Syndrome Association of South Texas • 2800 NW Loop 410 • San Antonio, TX 78230 • (210) 349-4372

Volume 17, Issue 3

JULY 2015

What’s

inside...

Family Fun Day.....................1 HUGS......................................1 Buddy Walk........................ 2-3 Executive Director.................4 ARD Meetings.......................4 Programs/Special Events......5 Big Give S.A...........................6 Welcome, Visitors!................6 Meet Alicia.............................6 Navigate Life Texas................6 Any Baby Can........................7 D.A.D.S...................................7 Whimsy Art Studio...............7 Spanish Meetings...................7 ACE Program.........................8

www.dsastx.org

Downs

Keeping Up With

A Day of Fun for Everyone!

On Sunday, June 28th, the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas held its first ever Family Fun Day at Morgan’s Wonderland. The event was rescheduled from the original date of May 17th due to flooding in the San Antonio area, but that didn’t stop almost 1,000 people from attending!

The staff and volunteers at Morgan’s Wonderland made sure that everyone had a great time! There were several families who never had the opportunity to enjoy the park before, so they were excited to see what Morgan’s has to offer.

The D.A.D.S. group prepared and sold plates of hamburgers and sausage wraps for everyone and also held a raffle. All the proceeds from the sale of the plates and raffle tickets will help the D.A.D.S. group continue to provide events and meetings for the fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other male relatives of those with Down syndrome. We want to thank all the wonderful volunteers who helped the D.A.D.S. group that day. We also want to thank Jeff Dillahunty for once again offering the use of his BBQ pit and doing all the cooking! It was a very hot day, so we greatly appreciate it!

San Antonio Councilman Ray Lopez from District 6 presented the DSASTX with a $5,000 check to help support the Buddy Walk! We are extremely grateful to Mr. Lopez and the City of San Antonio for this generous donation!

From the carousel to the fishing pier to the off-road vehicles, there was something for everyone at the Family Fun Day! There was an opportunity to meet new friends, see old friends, and see other children with Down syndrome enjoying all the wonderful things the park has to offer.

Mark your calendars for the 2nd Annual Family Fun Day on Sunday, May 15, 2016!

Educational Opportunties....8 Where Hope Grows..............8 School Supplies Giveaway....8 Self-Advocate News..............9 Board Highlight.....................9

Help Us Give Support

Outreach...............................10 Meet the Staff.......................10 TM

Contributions.................10-11 Audrey’s Day........................11 Who We Are........................11 Connect With Us.................11 Calendar of Events..............12

Visit the

DSASTX website ~ HUGS link to start your monthly giving today!

The DSASTX H.U.G.S. Annual Giving program is an easy way to donate with a one-time, quarterly, bi-annual or monthly gift through automatic donations via a credit or debit card with amounts as low as $5.

With every donation given through the HUGS program, you support the many programs directly impacting children and adults with Down syndrome.

Keeping Up With Downs

Join Us at the 15 t h Annual Buddy Walk!

The 2015 San Antonio Buddy Walk will be held Saturday, September 26th at Heroes Stadium, 4799 Thousand Oaks (near Morgan’s Wonderland) beginning at 7 a.m.

Please join the San Antonio community as we celebrate the gifts and diversity of children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome and help raise awareness of the need for acceptance and inclusion of these wonderful people!

Schedule of Events: 7 a.m. Registration 7 a.m. Exhibitors and Entertainment begin 8 a.m. Opening Ceremonies 9 a.m. Buddy Walk begins around Heroes Stadium REGISTRATION IS FREE! However, registration is required by September 4th to secure a Buddy Walk t-shirt. T-shirts are not guaranteed if you register after this day. In addition, preregistered t-shirts should be picked up at the Pre-Walk T-shirt Pick Up Days to be guaranteed your free shirt. See below for extended pick up times and dates.

Remember, Buddy Walk is the DSASTX’s biggest fundraiser of the year, so in lieu of a registration fee, we encourage you to make a tax deductible contribution and raise donations from families and friends to support the programs and services of the DSASTX. Prizes will be awarded for the top fundraisers!

Registration is now available online at www.dsastx.org. Just click on the Buddy Walk link and follow the directions provided. The online system allows you to create your own Buddy Walk fundraising page to share with family, friends, doctors, therapists, and colleagues. It’s a convenient and simple way to share information about Buddy Walk and raise money through personalized emails to your supporters.

Social Media: The online portal also allows you to share posts on your Facebook and Twitter accounts encouraging your friends and family to join your team and make a donation in honor of your buddy. Please “like” the San Antonio Buddy Walk Facebook page and share the link with friends and family to stay updated with details. We ask that you participate in our social media presence by using the hashtag #SABuddyWalk15 when you post any updates or photos.

Pre-Walk T-shirt Pick Up Days: Register, pick up your t-shirts, and submit donations at the Buddy Pre-Walk T-shirt Pickup Days to be held at the DSASTX office at 2800 NW Loop 410 (access road on eastbound 410 between Cherry Ridge and Vance Jackson):

• Saturday, September 19th from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

• Tuesday, September 22nd from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

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Prizes: For every $500 raised, the participant’s name will go into a drawing for a chance to win one of four prizes including a beach house stay in Port Aransas, a 2-night stay at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa, or a spot in the 2016 DSASTX calendar. In order to be eligible for prizes, the deadline to submit donations is midnight on Saturday, September 19th.

Team Awards: The top 3 fundraising teams as of midnight September 19th will receive VIP canopies, a goody basket and stage recognition on the day of the walk. The team that raises the most money will walk with the Honorary Buddy, Bruce Bowen.

Corporate Sponsors: Thank you to HEB Tournament of Champions; Valero; Grande Communications; Speech and Language Center at Stone Oak; Royal Management; The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation; Whataburger; Councilman Ray Lopez, District 6; Williams, Crow, Mask, LLP; Texas Capital Bank; North Park Lexus; Pediatric Therapy Associates; Broadway Bank; UPS; Deerfield Animal Hospital; Institute for Women’s Health; McCombs Foundation, and Frito-Lay for their sponsorship of Buddy Walk 2015. If you know of a company that is interested in sponsoring the Buddy Walk, please contact the DSASTX office at (210) 349-4372.

Walk Day Volunteers: If your school or company is interested in volunteering on the day of the walk, please contact Kelly Toepperwein at (210) 349-4372 or ktoepperwein@dsastx.org.

Volunteer shifts include 5 a.m.-9 a.m., 5 a.m.-11 a.m., 7 a.m.-11 a.m., 7 a.m.-1 p.m. or 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

My Story!

Buddy Walk with a PURPOSE! WHAT DOES BUDDY WALK MEAN TO YOU? WHY DO YOU BUDDY WALK? Some of you are new Buddy Walkers and others are seasoned participants. Whatever category you may fall in, we know that you Buddy Walk with a purpose. All 6,000 participants walk in honor of someone they know, love and adore.

We would like to feature you and your loved one to show how your family has evolved and how the DSASTX has been there along your journey. If you are interested, please provide one short paragraph about what the Buddy Walk means to you and your family! Why do you Buddy Walk? Why is it important?

What is the best part?

Please write one short paragraph, not to exceed 120 words and send one or two pictures that you think best fits that story and email to ktoepperwein@dsastx.org with the subject “My Story.”

Please note, this may be used on social media or other DSASTX material in the future. If you would like assistance writing your story, just ask us! We would love to help.

www.dsastx.org

Ready - Set - Walk !!

What is Buddy Walk?

• The purpose of the Buddy Walk is to promote acceptance and inclusion of children and adults with Down syndrome.

• The Buddy Walk is a short, one-mile route. Everyone is encouraged to form teams to support a Buddy, a child or adult with Down syndrome. The Buddy Walk participants who raise the most money are eligible to receive great prizes.

Facts about the Buddy Walk?

• The San Antonio Buddy Walk is hosted by the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas.

• October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

• The Buddy Walk was established by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in 1995. It has flourished into the premier advocacy event for Down syndrome, growing from 17 walks in 1995 to more than 250 walks worldwide!

• The San Antonio Buddy Walk is considered one of the largest in the nation!

• 100% of all funds raised at the Buddy Walk will directly impact the lives of those with Down syndrome. Ninety-three percent will directly support the programs and services of the local DSASTX, while seven percent supports the education, research and advocacy initiatives of the NDSS. • The funds from the Buddy Walk support our outstanding programs here in San Antonio including outreach to new parents and medical professionals, education workshops/conferences, Adult Continuing Education program, Playgroup, Kid Connection, Teen Club, Adult Matters and resources for parents and professionals.

2014 Buddy Walk Details • Our most successful Buddy Walk EVER! • Together we raised $202,535 for the DSASTX (in 2013, we raised $175,000) • One-mile walk around Heroes Stadium • Record breaking attendance at over 6,000 Buddy Walkers • 244 registered teams • Over 35 community agencies/exhibitors set up to distribute information and resources to our families • 275 registered volunteers for over 1,500 hours of service • Presenting Sponsor: HEB Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust $25,000 • Great Buddy Sponsor: Valero Energy Corporation $10,000 • Former San Antonio Spur, Bruce Bowen, served as our Honorary Buddy!

The Buddy Walk is our primary fundraising and advocacy event.

Funds raised at the Buddy Walk help support the programs and services provided by the DSASTX and assist the NDSS in their research, advocacy, and education initiatives.

Top 2014 Teams: 1) Ben’s Jammin’ Brigade 2) Jake’s Crew 3) Heart & Sole for Adrienne & Gracelyn 4) Luke’s Lucky Buddies Fundraising 101 - Buddy Walk Fundraising Ideas •A sk for Donations: Don’t forget that you can ask others to give donations to sponsor your walk. Try asking for a donation from your dentist, dry cleaner, hairdresser, pharmacist, doctor, real estate agent, accountant, veterinarian, attorney, sorority/ fraternity, professors, homeowners’ association members, employees, or team moms.

•E -mail Signature: Insert the hyperlink to your fundraising page on your email signature. Explain that you are participating in the San Antonio Buddy Walk benefiting the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas and encourage them to visit your webpage and donate!

• S ocial Media: Increase mass awareness for your buddy and Down syndrome by using social media to promote your fundraising page via Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube and Instagram!

Raise $500 in One Week ... 7 Days!

Day 1

Sponsor yourself for $25

Day 2

Ask three family members for $25

Day 3

Ask five friends to donate $15

Day 4

Ask five coworkers to sponsor you for $10 (don’t forget to ask your company about matching gifts)

Day 5

Email fifteen contacts asking them for a $10 donation

Day 6

Ask your company for a $75 contribution

Day 7

Ask two businesses you frequently use for $25

Buddy Walk Online Registration Tips • If you have registered for Buddy Walk in previous years, please use the same login information. If you do not remember your login, click the “forgot login/password” to have a reminder sent to your email or call the DSASTX office.

• Please enter name and address using correct punctuation and capitalization so your record will be accurate.

• When making a donation, you must click on the team name or participant’s name you want credited.

• Personalize your page by sharing a picture and story.

• Send emails to your contact list and post directly to your Facebook or Twitter account.

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Keeping Up With Downs

Executive Director Letter from Terri Mauldin Welcome to the summer issue of the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas’ newsletter! Summer is in full swing with lots of events, changes, and additions to the DSASTX.

On Saturday, June 13th, the 12th Annual Audrey’s Day at the Beach was held in Rockport, Texas. There were lots of Terri Mauldin families that attended this awesome event and enjoyed sun, water, food, and tons of fun. Thank you again to the Shockleys and all the volunteers in Rockport! Bill, Jackie, Ray, and Aggie always host a wonderful event enjoyed by all!

Don’t forget the Buddy Walk will be held on Saturday, Sept. 26th at Heroes Stadium. The Buddy Walk registration site is open and ready for team registration and donations. We are asking everyone that has registered or donated in the past to PLEASE use your login information from last year. For more information, please see the article on page 2 of this newsletter.

I want to send a HUGE thank you to the Board members and all the volunteers that give so much of their time for the DSASTX. We had a tremendous amount of volunteer help at the Family Fun Day and we look forward to seeing many volunteers at the Buddy Walk.

The DSASTX participated in the city-wide online giving day on Tuesday, May 5th, The Big Give S.A. This endeavor allowed us to raise over $9,400 for our programs! The city of San Antonio raised over $4.2 million overall for 880 various charities in the area. So, thank you to all that participated and be ready for next year!!

The DSASTX continues to grow and create new and exciting programs for the children and adults with Down syndrome. We have added another position to the staff in the office to help support all the great things we have planned. Margarita Reyes joined us on June 1st as the Administrative Assistant. Kelly Toepperwein has been moved from Community Outreach Coordinator to Development Associate and Melania Evans is now the Programs and Events Coordinator. Please help me welcome Margarita!

I hope everyone enjoys the rest of your summer and I look forward to seeing everyone at the Buddy Walk on September 26th.

Making ARD Meetings Productive for Your Child’s Education

by Judith Moening Parents of children ages 3-21 are familiar with the educational process known as the ARD (AdmissionReviewDismissal) meeting. This meeting is the primary vehicle for families and school staff to create a plan of services and supports for a child with a disability. Parents sometimes worry that school staff will not like them or their child if they make requests.

There is always a worry about what it is okay to ask for. Here are some ways for parents to use this important meeting to the greatest benefit for their child.

1. Reflect prior to the meeting on exactly what you want for your child’s education. Do you see progress in your child’s skills? In what areas do you want to see more progress? Are you pleased with your relationship with the school staff? If not, how might communication be improved? Are you satisfied with the program of related services (speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, music therapy, etc.) being provided? Now create a list in writing that you will share with the school at the start of the meeting. Staff will appreciate knowing your thoughts, and including the document in your child’s folder will be record of your position at that time.

2. Ask to review a draft of the IEP goals and objectives prior to the meeting. This allows you to really consider whether the goals are sufficient for your child’s program. Be comfortable making suggestions for additional goal areas. If you do not receive a copy of the proposed goals prior to the meeting, then ask for a brief recess during the meeting to read the goals and discuss with your partner.

3. Remember that it is permissible to ask questions and seek more information. Ask about the data that was the basis for decisions such as how much speech therapy your child will receive and how progress toward goals was determined. Ask staff if they can explain assessments to you in a way that is understandable.

4. Be prepared to compromise. You began the meeting with a statement of your wishes and hopes for your child’s education.

The school staff uses their training and expertise during the meeting to make recommendations. There is always a middle ground where school and parents can agree on the appropriate services.

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5. Finally, arrive at the meeting ready to participate in an active way using the suggestions above. The decisions made at ARD meetings are important for your child’s future and deserve the active participation and input of both school and families.

www.dsastx.org

Programs & Special Events We have unveiled some very exciting programs in the past couple of months! Check out what the DSA has to offer you and your child ...

New Chapter Book Club Come be a member of the DSA’s New Chapter Book Club! Meet new friends, improve your reading skills and embark on adventures you will take with you for a lifetime! We are delving into a series of short stories, discussing them, and creating meaningful and fun activities that personally tie us to our literature!

Book Club is held 3 consecutive Fridays of the month at 5 p.m. and includes reading, discussion & activities. Book Club will meet on the following Fridays: August 14, 21, 28 September 11, 18, 25 October 9, 16, 23

Book Club

Club UP! Club Up! is a fitness club designed for individuals 10 years and older. Come meet us at Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook Dr. at 10 a.m. on three consecutive Saturday mornings and let’s get UP and MOVING! Club UP! will meet on the following Saturdays: August 15, 22, 29 September 12, 19 October 10, 17, 24

DSASTX Day at Splashtown - Saturday, August 8 Splashtown is located at 3600 IH 35 North, San Antonio, TX 78219. Checkin is from 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Families must arrive by 11:30 a.m. so that tickets may be purchased – NO EXCEPTIONS. DSASTX will provide free admission for individuals with Down syndrome (ages 0-12) and their siblings (ages 17 and under) OR DSASTX will provide free admission for teens and adults with Down syndrome (ages 13 and up) and one friend with special needs. Any additional tickets for parents, friends, adult siblings, and extended family (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) will be charged the group rate admission. You MUST RSVP to Melania Evans at (210) 349-4372 or mevans@dsastx.org no later than Monday, August 3.

Don’t forget your towel and sunscreen!

Summer Fitness Program Kinetic Kids and the DSA are partnering to bring to you a Summer Sports Program designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome ages 10 and up. We are pleased to bring you 4 different sports, presented throughout a 4-week program. Join us every Wednesday from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at Coker United Methodist Church (231 E. North Loop Road, San Antonio, TX 78216) for some summer fun!

August 5th – Soccer August 12th – Dance/Hip Hop Jazz August 19th – Basketball Please email mevans@dsastx.org or contact Melania Evans at (210) 349-4372 to sign up! Refreshments and volunteers provided!

Summer Music Therapy Program This summer program is designed especially for children with Down syndrome and has proven to be very beneficial to your child’s overall wellness. Songbird Music Therapy provides a multi-dimensional approach to treating the whole person. Music Therapy promotes improvement in function within the physical, cognitive, social/emotional, and communicative domains along with balance, respite, healing, strength and stability.

Class will be held at the DSASTX office on August 18.

The schedule is as follows: 10-10:30 a.m. – Ages 0-3 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – Ages 4-12 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. – Ages 13 and up

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Keeping Up With Downs

Meet Alicia With your help, we raised $7,669 from 119 donors and achieved our outreach goal of increasing our social media following by 264 individuals!

Overall, the South Central Texas area raised over $4.3 million for 882 amazing local nonprofit organizations!

The funding provided by your donation through the Big Give S.A. will be used to support all of our programs. Some examples include:

•O utreach to new parents receiving a prenatal or postnatal diagnosis

• A dult Continuing Education (ACE): providing individual tutoring once per week for adults who have aged out of the public school system

•B ook Club: offering group reading and activities three times per month

•C lub UP: providing group fitness and dance classes three times per month

The Big Give S.A. was not just about donations, it was also about increasing awareness about local nonprofits and the impact they have in the South Central Texas community. The exposure from the Big Give S.A. is huge for all of the nonprofit community, especially for organizations that serve individuals with disabilities.

In order to gain additional exposure, the DSASTX launched an awareness campaign the week before the event by doing a “Stand Up for Down Syndrome” video challenge. To view some of the videos, visit our YouTube site by searching for our name.

We understand that there were hundreds (almost a thousand) wonderful organizations participating in The Big Give S.A., but we also know that you donated to us for a reason. Whatever your personal reason, please know that we appreciate your support!

Remember, we LOVE visitors in our office!

Stop by and we would love to get to know you!

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Alicia J. Luevano was born to Andy and Rosemarie Luevano on July 12, 1989. At the age of 5 months old, Alicia was enrolled at Brighton School to begin her early childhood intervention. Two years later she was asked by Alicia the school to appear on KABB’s show “Focus on South Texas.” She attended Brighton School until the age of 5.

At the age of 5 years old, Alicia was transferred to San Antonio Independent School District to continue her education. During the following 12 years she was able to accomplish many things.

During the last year of middle school, Alicia became a member of the pep squad, but it was in high school where she began to excel.

In her sophomore year, she became a member of the Fox Tech High School Red Jacket pep squad. She participated in all football game halftime shows and even participated in San Antonio’s Fiesta Flambeau parade. During her junior year, while continuing to fulfill her duties as a pep squad member, Alicia ran for and was elected junior class princess. During her senior year at Fox Tech, she applied for and was accepted onto the cheerleading squad where she led the student body in cheers for the football team.

Alicia graduated Fox Tech High School in May of 2009. In August 2010 Alicia’s picture was selected by the National Down Syndrome Society to appear in a video that was played in Time Square in New York City. The video showcased a public awareness campaign which seeks to honor and celebrate stories of individuals with Down syndrome.

In 2011, Alicia’s image was submitted to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for participation in their Face in Space Program. Her image was selected and it flew aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-135 from July 8-July 21, 2011.

Today, Alicia participates in the Adult Continuing Education (ACE) program at the DSASTX office. She enjoys the opportunity to learn through this one-on-one tutoring program. Alicia also attends the Adult Matters events hosted by the DSASTX.

Navigate Life Texas (Avancemos Juntos Texas) is a new website for families of children with disabilities and special health care needs.

This bilingual (English and Spanish) site was developed by a Texas Health and Human Services Commission task force. Each page of this first-of-its-kind site was written, reviewed or edited by a parent of a child with disabilities.

NavigateLifeTexas.org provides resources and content addressing needs of families from birth through adulthood. Articles include information on: diagnosis and early intervention, insurance and financial support, family support, education, and transition to adulthood.

Please check out navigatelifetexas.org, type in your zip code and interest area and start navigating. For more information or to share a resource contact Becky Tarwater at rickrbecky@sbcglobal.net or (210) 654-8834.

www.dsastx.org

Any Baby Can Walk for Autism celebrated their second year as an official Fiesta event and invited the DSASTX and Big Brothers Big Sisters to partner with them for volunteer and promotional support. Many of you already know because you attended, but the event took place on April 18, 2015 at the AT&T Center.

The DSA recruited eight local Starbucks volunteers to decorate and manage a game booth at the walk. Our booth was a fishing game, and the fun and energetic volunteers collected tickets for participants to play the game. Following the successful event, Any Baby Can donated a portion of the proceeds to the DSASTX to continue providing our services! Thank you, Any Baby Can, for partnering with us to better serve our families!

Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome (D.A.D.S.) South Texas We would like to announce that the D.A.D.S. have a new director and his name is Joseph Lopez.

Joseph has a 6-month-old daughter named Liliana. Since Joseph has become a member of the D.A.D.S. group, he has helped organize the 1st Annual Family Fun Day at Morgan’s Wonderland.

Joseph has a positive attitude about the program and is helping the DSASTX with various programs and the San Antonio Buddy Walk.

We would like to thank him for his involvement and we are looking forward to working with the D.A.D.S. group.

Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome (D.A.D.S.) is a group of fathers or male family members of children who happen to have Down syndrome. D.A.D.S. have three fundamental pillars: support, action and fellowship.

D.A.D.S. South Texas works with the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas (DSASTX) to help develop programs, events and welcome new families. We are always looking for D.A.D.S. to help make our Joseph & Liliana community better. If you would like to learn more about D.A.D.S. South Texas you can follow us on Facebook, call (210) 349-4372 or email us at dads@dsastx.org.

Whimsy Art Studio Paint & Sip Recap On Saturday, April 17th the Whimsy Art Studio hosted a Paint & Sip Fundraiser benefiting the Down Syndrome Association. Over 20 people attended the event and created a beautiful masterpiece with help from the instructor. She was so patient and attentive to every one of us and gave us step-by-step directions. Thanks to everyone who attended, the Whimsy Art Studio donated $500 to the DSASTX! For more information, please visit their website at www.whimsyartstudio.com.

Spanish Meeting ¿Es Usted Padre de un Niño con Síndrome de Down? La Asociación Síndrome de Down del Sur de Texas le Invita a Nuestro Grupo de Apoyo en Español.

Fecha: El cuarto Miércoles de cada Mes 26 de agosto 23 de septiembre 28 de octubre Tiempo: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Ubicación: El Hogar de Los Vecino (Conference Room # 2) 3014 Rivas Street, San Antonio, Texas 78228 Por favor confirma tu asistencia! mevans@dsastx.org.

Habra guarderia disponible para ninos de 3 meses a 12 anos de edad.

Contaremos con una cena ligera.

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Where Hope Grows

Adult Continuing Education (ACE) Program For those of you who are not familiar with the Adult Continuing Education (ACE) Program, we have included some interesting facts.

In the past year alone:

• 50% of the students have increased one grade level in reading and writing (at minimum) and increased math skills from simple digit to complex carrying over.

• 43% of students have progressed from picture addition/ subtraction to adding/subtracting without pictures, and have increased their reading ability from word identification to short, simple stories.

• The remaining 7% started the ACE Program with very low reading skills and could only identify a few site words. They have now successfully read multiple books (short stories) through a specific reading program.

• Since this is a one-on-one individualized approach, 100% of the students and parents see major improvements.

Interested in joining? The ACE Program is always recruiting new students who are 18+ with any disability. Tutoring is conducted one-on-one with a volunteer tutor at the DSASTX office. The hours are flexible depending on the tutor and student’s schedules.

If you have a son or daughter 18 years or above who would like to participate in our ACE program, please contact Oralia Lara at the DSASTX office or email olara@dsastx.org. We are currently recruiting more students to keep this program growing!

The DSA was so very pleased to be able to provide a theater free of cost for our families to enjoy the new movie “Where Hope Grows.” Over 125 people attended the free screening at Santikos Silverado 16 theater. This movie stars a young man with Down syndrome (David DeSanctis) who does an excellent job portraying not only his character, but showing the world that he and others with Down syndrome are no different than the rest of us.

The plot of the movie follows Calvin Campbell, a former professional baseball player sent to an early retirement due to his panic attacks at the plate. Even though he had all the talent for the big leagues, he struggles with the curveballs life has thrown him.

Today, he mindlessly sleepwalks through his days and the challenge of raising his teenage daughter. His life is in a slow downward spiral when it is suddenly awakened and invigorated by the most unlikely person – Produce, a young man with Down syndrome who works at the local grocery store.

Calvin slowly loses the chip on his shoulder as he begins to experience the world through Produce’s eyes. Faith, work, purpose and, most importantly, family blossom into Calvin’s life as their friendship develops. The unlikely pair become intertwined giving Calvin’s life new meaning and purpose, but unfortunately leads to tragedy due to a single decision echoed from Calvin’s past.

We hope you were able to join us, and if not, that you will take the time to see this inspiring movie available on DVD on August 25th!!

Interested in volunteering? We are looking for tutors to help our students achieve their academic goals. Volunteers must be 18 years or older, pass a background check, and give a six-month commitment. Please contact Kelly Toepperwein at ktoepperwein@ dsastx.org for more details.

Back2School

Educational Opportunities

Backpacks stuffed with school supplies for children with Down syndrome & their siblings

July 24-26 ~ Texas Advocates Conference Texas Advocates get medieval in Dallas! Conference HQ is the Hilton Anatole, 2201 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207.

Visit their website for more information.

Sunday, November 8 ~ AccessAbility Fest Join with hundreds of partner organizations and businesses for the 9th annual AccessAbility Fest, a gateway to resources, opportunities and independence. Event Topic areas: Benefits Management, Financial Planning, Community Education & Public Awareness, Education, Employment, Legislative & Legal, Health & Nutrition, Residential Options, Support Services, Recreation-Socialization, Transportation, Therapy & Rehabilitation. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

El Mercado, 514 W. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78207. Visit their website for more information.

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Supplies Giveaway

Pick Up Dates: Saturday, August 1st • 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Neighborhood Place, 3014 Rivas Street, San Antonio, Texas Saturday, August 8th • 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Brighton Center, 14207 Higgins Road, San Antonio, Texas

• while supplies last

www.dsastx.org

Self-Advocate News Board Highlight

by Jessaca Bond May was an important month in the 2015 Texas Legislative session. Several bills came up that affected the disability community.

Some of them passed and some didn’t. I want to highlight three of those bills that passed that I think are important.

Jessaca Bond The first one is SB 1881/HB 39, “Supported Decision-Making Agreements”. This bill outlines an alternative when guardianship is not necessary or the best option. It allows for an agreement to be made between the individual with a disability and a trusted person such as a parent, caregiver, relative or friend.

This “supporter” would help them with significant life decisions like housing options and medical questions. I had the opportunity with the ARC of Texas to go to the capital in Austin and testify in support of this bill, once before a Senate committee and once before a House committee. I met with Senator Zaffirini, an author of the bill. It was very exciting! After the Senate committee testimony, which was held in the main chamber, the whole gallery started applauding! I supported this bill because I think it will allow individuals, such as me, to have the opportunity to take more of a role living our own lives. This bill will be effective September 1, 2015.

The ABLE Act, SB 1664, “Achieving a Better Life Experience” is next. It is the one probably most well-known. It is a program that can help with things that maintain health, independence and quality of life. It allows us to be able to save our own money. That is really great because right now with Medicaid, a person cannot have any more than $2,000 in savings. The ABLE Act is specific by state, but will allow about $14,000 per year to be put in a specific account, with a maximum amount in the account of $100,000. I am not sure that all the rules are in place yet, but I think this is a great step in the right direction!

The third bill is HB 3374, “The Down Syndrome Information Act”. This bill requires the Department of State Health Service to make available more information about Down syndrome and to include contact information for national and local Down syndrome education and support programs, services and organizations. I think this is important because it is helpful to new parents to be able to find a supportive group of other parents.

A lot of people put a lot of hard work into these bills and getting them passed. Thank you!

Focus on Board Member Trisha Cooke Trisha Cooke serves as a Member at Large of the DSASTX Board of Directors. She comes to the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas with a background in sales, project management, customer service and managing profit and loss statements. She is currently serving as Chair of the Development Committee and has also been a member of the Crohn’s and Colitis Trisha & Chris Foundation of America. Trisha was one of the Cooke members of the CCFA support group in San Antonio and led their first charity event in the area.

Celebrating her 25-year anniversary at Avnet Technology Solutions, Trisha currently holds the position of VP, Supplier Technology Solutions where she leads a team of 58 technical consultants. She received industry recognition when she was named as a “Women in the Channel” in the CRN magazine in 2012 and was a finalist for Avnet Women’s leadership award in 2015.

At work Trisha is passionate about the personal and professional development of the people within her organization. She spends time as a mentor to many up-and-coming professionals within and outside her direct teams.

Trisha married Chris Cooke in 1993 and will celebrate 22 years of marriage on November 6 of this year. They have spent many years caring for ailing family members and even became the primary caregiver of Trisha’s mother, Barbara Talley. Barbara suffered a massive stroke that left her paralyzed, requiring 24-hour care.

Barbara was an artist, a writer and never lost her passion for life.

During this challenging time, Trisha and Chris realized they had a special place in their heart for those in need, specifically caregivers and individuals who required care.

Barbara Talley passed away 4 years ago leaving a void and a continued desire to do more for the community and those in need.

Dear friends Christy, Kevin, Natasha, Ian, Drew, and Olivia Anderson introduced them to the DSASTX, and Trisha knew immediately she wanted to do more and get involved. Last summer, Trisha joined the board and continues to engage in opportunities to educate, create awareness and raise funds for the DSASTX.

Information obtained from the Texas Legislature Online website and the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities website.

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Keeping Up With Downs

Outreach

We would like to welcome our newest families to the Down Syndrome Association family!

If you know someone who has a child or family member with Down syndrome, please let them know about the DSASTX and the services we provide. We’d be happy to reach out to help in any way possible!

Christina Alvarado, parent of Michael Brian & Patricia Guerra, parents of Brian Jacqueline Brown, parent of Lauren Bob Cage, parent of Sunny Shelbey Moore, parent of Hayden Jarin & Kelly Arhelger, parents of Zayne Dana Connally, parent of Savannah Celia Ruan, parent of David Cody & April Crisp, parents of Bentley Enith Sanchez, parent of Antonio Evert Tejeda & Claribel Vasquez Guerra, parents of Evert Elizabeth Reyna, parent of Grayson Angelica Strickland, parent of Violet Ryan & Callie Hudak, parents of Lucy Claudia Wright, parent of Emma Chuck & Becky West, parents of Sam West David Myers, parent of Carter

DSASTX OFFICE STAFF Terri Mauldin Executive Director Melania Evans Programs & Special Events Coordinator Oralia Lara Adult Continuing Education Director Margarita Reyes Administrative Assistant Cynthia Smith Bookkeeper

Kelly Toepperwein Development Associate

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Contributions

We sincerely appreciate the following people who have so generously donated to the Down Syndrome Association. Your contributions help us offer a variety of programs for the members of our organization.

Albert Hernandez Janice Troy Alexandra Guerra Jason Samfield Amy C. Marshall Javier & Mary Carrillo Any Baby Can Jennifer Japhet AT&T United Way Employee Jessica Garcia Giving Campaign Jessica Turner Aundrey & Sherri Cherry Jessie Torres Barbara Lopez Joseph Lopez Barbara Samfield Jubile Holdings JM Medical Barbara Spinner Square Series, LLC Beatriz Fox Judith Laufer Belarmino Castellanos Judith Moening Benjamin De Jesus Justin & Jill Hill Bill Dayson Justin Blue Cathy Ramirez Karen Swartzendruber Center for Maternal-Fetal Care Kathryn Preston Charles Ahrens Kathy Carrizales Christiane Garcia Keller Williams Legacy Christine Velasquez Kelly Compton Christy McDonald Kelly Toepperwein Colin Blair Kent Roach Congregation of Divine Kevin Wright Providence, Inc. Kristan LeGrand Conrad Housler Linda Balderama Dale Schlundt Linda Moharam David Kipp Lisa Drozdick Debbie Pargas Lisa Giddens Deborah Lumbert Lydia Beach Debra Albright Lynda Haile Dennis Nisi Lynda Somers Diana Farmer Madeleine Paul Diane Freund Magda Branecka Donald Berube Maria Weaver Donna Johnson Maria Villarreal Douglas Smiley Mary Anne Feltner Edith Ambrester Matt Mauldin Edward Leos Matt Patterson Ellen Kurz Matthew Lawrence Elna Jeanes Melissa Toudouze Esther Mendoza Michael Landin Eugene McDonald Michael Mauldin Frank Spinner Michael Pasquarella Fred Richards Michele Whitley George Hinchey Michelle Pettit George Roberts Missy Prewit Gloria Carrejo Monica Urias Guy Seay Monsanto Fund Hanes Segler Oralia Lara Helen Ueleke P.E.C. United Charities, Inc. Jack Rayome Patricia Shoemaker Jacob Levesque Polly Toepperwein

www.dsastx.org Rachel Langas Reagan Greer Renee Sethness Rick Villarreal Rick Wyckoff Robert Maldonado Rocio Rojas Lozano Ryan Hudak Sandy Bond Sean Hamilton Sharon Griesing Stephanie Anderson Stephen Ramseur Steve Nivin Steven Hoelscher Susan Garza Teresa Linares Terri Mauldin The Benevity Community Impact Fund TRUiST Union Pacific Corporation United Health Foundation Veronica Navarro Wells Fargo Community Support Whimsy Art Studio William Cade Williams, Crow, Mask, LLP Zachry Davis

Who We Are MISSION STATEMENT The DSASTX's mission is to provide support and services to children and adults with Down syndrome and their families.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Terri Mauldin

(210) 349-4375 • tmauldin@dsastx.org

DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE Kelly Toepperwein

(210) 349-4372 • ktoepperwein@dsastx.org

PROGRAM & EVENTS COORDINATOR Melania Evans

(210) 349-4372 • mevans@dsastx.org

BOOKKEEPER Cynthia Smith

(210) 349-4372 • csmith@dsastx.org

ADULT CONTINUING EDUCATION DIRECTOR Oralia Lara (210) 349-4372 • olara@dsastx.org

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Margarita Reyes

(210) 349-4372 • mreyes@dsastx.org

Audrey’s Day at the Beach Audrey’s Day at the Beach was held June 13th at Port Aransas State Park hosted by the Shockley family.

As always, this event was an inspiring and fun time for all! We appreciate the Shockley family and all the time and effort they put into making Audrey’s Day at the Beach a beautiful day to remember and look forward to each year!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairperson – Edward Leos Vice Chairman – Belarmino Castellanos Secretary – Stephanie Anderson Treasurer/Finance – Christy Anderson Member at Large/Self Advocate – Jessaca Bond Member at Large – Kirk Mask Member at Large – Trisha Cooke Member at Large – Lisa Drozdick Member at Large – Lamont Jefferson Member at Large – Scott McLean Member at Large – Judith Moening Member at Large – Rocio Rojas Member at Large – Barbara Samfield

www.facebook.com/downsynstx www.twitter.com/downsynstx www.pinterest.com/downsynstx

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Calendar of Events AUGUST 1 Back2School Supplies Giveaway: 3014 Rivas, 11 a.m.

8 Back2School Supplies Giveaway: 14207 Higgins, 9 a.m.

8 DSASTX Day at Splashtown: 3600 IH 35 North,

check-in from 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

14 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

15 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

18 Music Therapy Program: DSASTX Office, 2800 NW Loop 410,

10 a.m. (ages 0-3), 10:45 (ages 4-12),

11:45 a.m. (ages 13 and up) 21 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

22 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

26 Spanish Parent Information Meeting: 3014 Rivas, 5:30 p.m.

28 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

29 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

SEPTEMBER 11 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

12 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

18 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 19 Pre-walk T-shirt Pick-up: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

19 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

22 Pre-walk T-shirt Pick-up: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

23 Spanish Parent Information Meeting: 3014 Rivas, 5:30 p.m.

25 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

26 BUDDY WALK: Heroes Stadium, 4799 Thousand Oaks,

7 a.m. - Registration Begins; 8 a.m. - Opening

Ceremonies; 9 a.m. - Walk Begins OCTOBER 9 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

10 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

16 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

17 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

23 New Chapter Book Club: DSASTX Office,

2800 NW Loop 410, 5 p.m.

24 Clup UP!: Dance-Me Studio, 8037 Pinebrook, 10 a.m.

28 Spanish Parent Information Meeting: 3014 Rivas, 5:30 p.m.

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Down Syndrome Association of South Texas 2800 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78230 NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID SAN ANTONIO, TX PERMIT NO 1126