Saturday, December 11, 2010

Down Syndrome Indiana Stars

On December 5th, Down Syndrome Indiana hosted its annual Holiday Party and Star Awards. I would like to introduce you to our winners:

Meet Ann Gibson:

Ann has been a wonderful board member and officer of DSI for many years. Early in Ann's service on the board the Buddy Walk(R) was without a leader and Ann stepped up and took charge, resulting in a very well organized and successful Buddy Walk(R). At a board meeting after that walk, Ann said that chairing the Buddy Walk(R) committee was one of the most rewarding things she had done. And, Ann has done all this service for children with Down syndrome and their families even though she does not have a family member with Down syndrome. When she agreed to serve on the board, she said that she wanted to do something to help others and she saw Down Syndrome Indiana as an organization in which she could fulfill that need. People with Down syndrome, their families and our community have benefited so much from Ann's commitment. Thank you Ann!

Meet Katie Shaw:

Katie is a remarkable individual with a drive for excellence! For Katie, no job is left undone. Whether it is filing paperwork, lifting heavy boxes, visiting donors, assisting staff, etc. Katie is one of the most dependable and reliable volunteers that we have here at DSI. She is an inspiration to all of us! Thank goodness for volunteers like Katie!

Meet Kate von Eiff:

Brian von Eiff, Kate's son, dreamed of going to college like his Best Buddy, Brad, but there were no programs in Indiana for Brian to attend. Brian's mom, Kate, didn't think that was acceptable and began conversation with local universities about allowing Brian to take courses there. Years later, there is a workgroup called the Indiana Postsecondary Education Coalition whose mission is built around a world in which young adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities can choose to take college courses if they want to because it will help them to have a better career and to be more independent. Thank you Kate for helping Down Syndrome Indiana dream bigger for all of our families!

Why a Star?

Focus: Parents, siblings, educators, and other friends and family often describe individuals with Down syndrome as "stars" or the center of attention. The star logo recognizes that quality, and reminds us of our need to challenge ourselves and society to see all individuals with Down syndrome for their contributions to their community.

Achievement: A star has long been a symbol of achievement. The star logo reminds us of the importance of all "achievements" of individuals with Down syndrome.

Inspiration: As a group of people familiar with the history of Down syndrome and it's treatments, we recognize that we are still at the beginning of our journey to discover the full potential of individuals with Down syndrome. The star represents our collective reaching for a brighter future for all individuals with Down syndrome.

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