Thursday, February 25, 2010

Down Syndrome Indiana Governmental Affairs Committee Receives Award!

Down Syndrome Indiana Governmental Affairs Committee Receives Award!

On February 24, 2010, the Down Syndrome Indiana Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) chaired by Tom Milvert of Columbus, IN received an award from the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) for their work in the area of public policy and in successfully addressing policy issues that affect individuals with Down syndrome and their families across Indiana. “The Down Syndrome Indiana GAC has demonstrated exemplary commitment, organization and creativity in implementing strategies to raise awareness of public policy issues among the members of the Down syndrome community in Indiana.” stated Madeleine Will, Vice President of Public Policy for the National Down Syndrome Society.

The award was received by Tom Milvert (GAC Chair) and Jeff Huffman (DSI Board President), representatives of Down Syndrome Indiana that traveled to Washington D.C. on February 24-25, 2010 to participate in the Buddy Walk on Washington ® to meet with members of the Indiana Congressional delegation to educate them about the strengths and needs of their constituents with Down syndrome. Down Syndrome Indiana is a nonprofit organization representing individuals with Down syndrome in Central Indiana. Down Syndrome Indiana is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with Down syndrome. Our mission is to serve as a conduit of information, support and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, which promotes growth and inclusion in the community.

The Buddy Walk on Washington® is a program of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). The program brings together organizations and advocates from across the country to meet policy makers and raise issues of importance to people with Down syndrome and their families such as improving outcomes in education, opportunities for employment, asset development and independent living and increased resources for Down syndrome research and community services and supports.

There are more than 400,000 Americans living with Down syndrome. It is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. One in every 733 babies is born with Down syndrome. It is estimated that about 8,000 individuals with Down syndrome are currently living in Indiana. The life expectancy has increased dramatically in recent decades - from 25 in 1983 to 60 today. People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many ways.

Friday, February 5, 2010

While your stuck inside, tune in!

Good afternoon DSI Families!

I just wanted to remind you that DSI will be featured on, “Now Hear This” on the following Indy radio stations at the following times this weekend:

WNDE AM 1260 at 7am on Saturday

Q95 at 7am on Sunday

X103 at 9am on Sunday

So, while you are stuck inside this weekend because of the snow, tune in!

Thanks so much to the above stations for hosting DSI, we can’t wait to come back and tell you more about our wonderful families!


It is my pleasure to serve you!

Lisa Tokarz-Gutierrez