Keeping Up With
Down Syndrome Association of South Texas • 2800 NW Loop 410 • San Antonio, TX 78230 • (210) 349-4372
Volume 16, Issue 2
APRIL 2014
What’s
inside...
Executive Director................... 1 Save These Dates!.................... 1 Information Meetings............. 2 Playgroup.................................. 3 Kid Connection....................... 3 Teen Club................................. 3 Adult Matters!.......................... 3 D.A.D.S..................................... 3 The Big Give S.A..................... 4 Thank You - Valero................. 5 Outreach................................... 5 H.U.G.S..................................... 5 Spring Formal.......................... 6 Birdies for Charity................... 6 DS101 Workshop..................... 6 Educational Opportunities..... 6 Inaugural H.U.G.S. Gala......... 7 Meet Lola.................................. 8 Baby Items Needed.................. 8 Self-Advocate News................ 9 Summer Programs................ 10 Contributions......................... 11 Who We Are.......................... 11 Connect With Us................... 11 Calendar of Events................ 12
www.dsastx.org
Downs
S–
Message from Terri Mauldin ... The first few months of 2014 have been busy for the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas! We have attended several resource fairs to get our information into the hands of families needing support and information. We have held several events for the families, including a formal dance for the adults and an Easter egg hunt for the Playgroup and Kid Connection participants. On March 20th, the DSASTX held its first HUGS Gala at the beautiful JW Marriott Resort and Spa to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. Please see the full article on page 7. We celebrated World Down Syndrome Day again on March 21st with the introduction of the new reusable grocery bag at HEB stores. This bag features artwork by two little boys with Down syndrome, Eugenio de la Garza and Cullen Turner, both 2 years old. The bags are available at select HEB stores around the area and a portion of the proceeds will be given to the DSASTX! Thank you, HEB!
The DSASTX is planning a very busy summer and fall! We have the Annual Spring Picnic at Landa Park on Sunday, May 18th; DSASTX Day at Splashtown on Terri Mauldin Saturday, August 16th; and the Buddy Walk on Saturday, September 27th at Heroes Stadium. If you have a company or organization that is interested in sponsorship opportunities for the Buddy Walk, please contact me. Please remember that we ask everyone to call or email the DSASTX office if you plan to attend an event so that we can be as efficient as possible when buying refreshments and supplies for all our events.
! DATES E S E H T icnic SAVE ch Spring P the Bea
Day at n May 18 Audrey's lashtow ay at Sp 7 D X T S June A S D 16 alk August Buddy W 7 2 r e b m te p Se
Keeping Up With Downs
Parent Information Meetings SAN ANTONIO – NORTHSIDE Coker United Methodist Church 231 E. North Loop Rd., Gibbs Room 1108 San Antonio, TX 78216 Our Northside Parent Information Meeting is held the 1st Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m-8:00 p.m. A light dinner is served. Childcare is available with a required RSVP to Coker UMC at (210) 494-3455, Ext. 245 at least 48 hours in advance. Please leave a detailed message when making a reservation. Tuesday, MAY 6 Big Give S.A. Celebration - "Big Hearts and Hats off for the DSASTX". All families and extended family members are invited. Please see Page 4 for details. Speakers: Jessaca Bond, self-advocate and board member, and Barbara Spinner, grandparent Tuesday, june 3 Epic Health Services Topic and Speaker TBD Tuesday, july 1 Topic: How to Understand the ARD Process for Your Child Speaker: Jennifer Fitzhugh, Brighton Center Tuesday, august 5 Topic: TBD Speaker: Haley Segovia, Epic Health Services SAN ANTONIO – SOUTHSIDE De Paul Family Center 7607 Somerset Road, San Antonio, TX 78211 Our Southside Parent Information Meeting is held the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. A light dinner is served. Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASTX office at (210) 349-4372. TUESday, may 20 Topic: TBD Speaker: Haley Segovia, Epic Health Services TUESday, june 17 Epic Health Services Topic and Speaker TBD
GRUPO DE APOYO EN ESPAñOL YMCA Westside 2900 Ruiz, San Antonio, TX 78228 Nuestro reunión de apoyo en Español se lleva a cabo la tercera Miércoles de cada mes de 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Contaremos con una cena ligera. Habrá guardería disponible para niños de 3 meses a 12 años de edad. Por favor RESERVA tu lugar llamando la oficina al (210) 349-4372. Por favor, deje un mensaje detallado al realizar una reserva. miércoles, 21 de mayo Tema: Por Determinar Presentador: Pamela Ramsey, Parent Programs Director, Brighton Center miércoles, 18 de Junio Brighton Center Tema y Presentador Por Determinar miércoles, 16 de Julio Tema: Por Determinar Presentador: Pamela Ramsey, Parent Programs Director, Brighton Center miércoles, 20 de Agosto Brighton Center Tema y Presentador Por Determinar NEW BRAUNFELS Gruene United Methodist Church 2629 East Common Street, New Braunfels, TX 78130 Our New Braunfels Parent Information Meeting (serving Comal and Guadalupe counties) is held on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. A light dinner is served. Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASTX office at (210) 349-4372. THURSDAY, may 15 Topic: TBD Speaker: Pamela Ramsey, Parent Programs Director, Brighton Center THURsday, june 19 Open Forum
TUESday, july 15 Kinetic Kids Topic and Speaker TBD
THURSday, july 17 Epic Health Services Topic and Speaker TBD
TUESday, august 19 Topic: Medicaid Waiver Programs Speaker: Yolanda Fuentes, The ARC of San Antonio
Thursday, august 21 Topic: How to Understand the ARD Process for Your Child Speaker: Jennifer Fitzhugh, Brighton Center BOERNE – Boerne Parent Information Meetings are currently on hold. Please stay tuned!
2
DSA
www.dsastx.org All Monthly Activities involve all of the DSASTX groups: Playgroup, Kid Connection, Teen Club and Adult Matters. (Two additional activities are listed at the end of the article for Teen Club and Adult Matters.)
Playgroup
Playgroup is a playtime for children ages 0-3. The DSASTX will pay for entry fees to these activities (if applicable) for the child with Down syndrome and their siblings. Please RSVP for each event to Melania Evans at mevans@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372.
Kid Connection
Kid Connection is our gathering designed for family social activities. We welcome all children with special needs and their families! Our events are specifically designed for ages 4-12. The DSASTX will pay the admission for the individual with Down syndrome and their siblings. Parents are responsible for their own admission. A discounted rate will be offered when possible. Please RSVP for each event to Melania Evans at mevans@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372.
Teen Club
The Teen Club is open to all teens with any disability between the ages of 13 and 17. The goal of the Teen Club is to foster friendships, stimulate socialization, and increase positive self esteem. Chaperones will be in attendance at each event. The cost of Teen Club events will be covered by the DSASTX for the teen and one special needs, age-appropriate friend. Please RSVP for each event to Melania Evans at mevans@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372.
Adult Matters!
Adult Matters! is a social program specifically designed for adults with special needs ages 18 and older. The focus is on providing an environment to help them further develop their social skills, build friendships among other adults with special needs, and offer them safe and appropriate interactions within the community. In order to foster that environment, we encourage them to invite an age-appropriate peer (another adult with special needs) to participate with them. DSASTX will pay the participation fee for both of them. Please RSVP for each event to Melania Evans at mevans@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372.
sunday, MAy 18 – DSASTX Annual picnic Landa Park, New Braunfels, TX 78130. Pavilions 4, 5 and 6. 1:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Lunch is provided from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Don't forget to bring your swimsuits, towels, water shoes, and sunscreen for a great time in the Comal River. Please RSVP no later than May 9 to (210) 349-4372 or mevans@dsastx.org. saturday, june 7 – audrey's day at the beach An all-day event from 8:30 a.m. till dusk for families of adults and children with Down syndrome at Rockport Beach Park, Rockport, Texas. Activities include fun in the sand and surf, kite flying, kayaking, face painting, boat rides, and cane pole fishing. One meal will be provided. This celebration is presented by Bill and Jackie Shockley in loving memory of their granddaughter who was born with DS. They wanted a way to give back to the DSASTX for all of the guidance and support they provided to their son Ray, Audrey's father. The celebration continues to grow each year, and we hope to see you there! saturday, august 16 – dsastx day at splashtown Splashtown is located at 3600 IH 35 North, San Antonio, TX 78219. Check-in is from 10:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. *Families must arrive by 11:00 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 11. Don't forget your towel and sunscreen! TEEn CLUB Saturday, May 3 – Mother's day bracelet making 10:00 a.m. at the DSASTX Office, 2800 NW Loop 410. Please RSVP to Melania Evans by April 30. adult matters Saturday, May 3 – Mother's day bracelet making 11:00 a.m. at the DSASTX Office, 2800 NW Loop 410. Please RSVP to Melania Evans by April 30.
D.A.D.S.
Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome (D.A.D.S.) is a community group (within a local Down syndrome support organization) of fathers of children who happen to have Down syndrome. We hesitate to call ourselves a “support group”, even though we do, in many ways, support each other. TUESDAY, JUNE 24 Dave & Buster's, 440 Crossroads Blvd., 78201. 7:00 p.m. RSVP to Melania Evans, mevans@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372.
DSA
3
Keeping Up With Downs
Recently you may have seen us on social media posting selfies and participating in other Big Give S.A. challenges for a chance to win prize money. We will need each and every one of you to help us reach our goal to win matching incentives from the Big Give S.A.!
1) On May 6th go to the Big Give S.A. website www.TheBigGiveSA.org and choose the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas and donate $10 or more. (Yes, it's that easy!)
WHY YOU ASK?
3) Follow us on social media to monitor our progress and share our posts with family and friends to produce an even stronger impact: Facebook – www.facebook.com/downsynstx Twitter – www.twitter.com/downsynstx
• $100 will provide a new family with the educational material, information, and support necessary to cope with the diagnosis including two books, a care package, Resource Directory and Parent Mentor. • $25 sponsors one teenager and one friend with special needs to attend one of our social activities to encourage socialization and build self-esteem. Our social events are FREE to individuals with Down syndrome, their siblings, and friends with special needs! YOU and The Big Give S.A. can help the DSASTX reach additional funding to maximize and sustain our programs and services. There are numerous ways to participate in the city's first giving challenge:
4
DSA
2) Become a DSASTX Advocate by helping us spread the word!
4) Promote our hashtag #BigGiveDSA on social media. We will be transforming our Northside Parent Information Meeting on May 6th into a Big Give S.A. Celebration themed "Big Hearts and HATS off for the DSASTX". We would like you to join us in your best hat to show your love for the local Down syndrome community. We will have our Self Advocate and Board Member, Jessaca Bond and grandparent Barbara Spinner as our guest speakers. If you would like to attend this event, please RSVP with Melania Evans at mevans@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372.
www.dsastx.org
Thank You!
Thank you to Valero for allowing the DSASTX use of their beautiful facilities for our first Easter Egg Hunt! Thank you also to Anabel Pearson and Olivia Askin for donating eggs and candy!
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! Rebecca Padilla & Jacob Serna, parents of Sophia Patricia Torres, parent of Kaylha Miosha Stewart, parent of Naosha Agustin Pereda, sibling of Julio Huneereo De La Cruz, parent of Daniel Olda Barrera, parent of Mabel Robin & Jimmy Tafoya, parents of Jimmy Jr. Maria Hernandez, parent of Angel Aguilar Monica & Erin Stouffer, parents of Gabriel Barbara & Dan Bustos, parents of Gardenia Ginger Britton & Edwin Dietz, parents of Nicholas Norma Chamberlain, parent of Marsha Debra Ochoa, parent of Andrea Isabel & Nicholas Montejo, parents of Elena De Yanira & Luis Morales, parents of Luis Jr. Gabriela Maciel & Nathan Trevino, parents of Sebastian Maria Obregon, parent of Sergio Ada Dentale, parent of David Jannie Hall, parent of Elaine Edna Buenrostro, parent of Ethan Marianne Estrada, parent of Zenib Lisa & Steve Kienlen, parents of Gabriella Debbie Schulz, parent of Jacob
Help Us Give Support 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 this program, you become eligible for the H.U.G.S. Recognition Club!
Visit the DSASTX website – HUGS link to start your monthly giving today!
DSA
5
Keeping Up With Downs
Spring Formal The Adult Matters Spring Formal was held on Saturday, March 1st at Sunset Station. We had over 35 adults with Down syndrome and other special needs eat and dance the night away. Once the music started, the dance floor was the place to be! Everyone had a great time! We provided the attendees with corsages and boutonnieres, a lovely dinner, and professional formal photos from our amazing photographer, Mr. Cortez with Cortez Photos. We want to thank our volunteers from the San Antonio Junior Forum for helping us with this fun event every year! If you are interested in purchasing additional photos from the evening, please contact Mr. Cortez at (830) 709-3123.
DS101 Workshop On March 5th, the DSASTX hosted an educational workshop at ESC-20 on ways to integrate children with Down syndrome in the classroom. We had 68 teachers, professionals and parents in attendance! Since this workshop was in such high demand, we are planning to have another one in the near future, so stay tuned for upcoming dates.
In case you missed it, here are a few tips: 1) Consistency is Key: The entire team (parents, teachers, and administrators) needs to work together to be on the same page. 2) Repeat, Repeat, Repeat: Students with Down syndrome may have difficulty with short term memory, so you should review what has been taught before starting on something new. 3) Use Visual Aids: Many students with Down syndrome are visual learners.
Educational Ops
ARC of SAN ANTONIO - EDUCATION SEMINAR Saturday, May 10, 2014 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Special Needs Trusts (SNT) allow individuals to maintain property and/or money and avoid losing essential longterm care benefits including SSI and Medicaid. Methods of setting up and funding a trust will be discussed Presented by Anna Torres, Attorney at Law, and Haley Greer, ARC Master Pooled Trust Manager. To register contact Heather Long at (210) 490-4300, Ext. 113 or hlong@arc-sa.org.
Birdies for Charity Thanks to our generous Birdies for Charity donors, we were eligible for the Top 50 Charities with the Valero Texas Open which provided us with an additional $200! The Birdies for Charity calendar contest winner is Adrienne Alvarado! She was the 2014 calendar cover girl and since she raised the most money for Birdies for Charity, she will be featured in the 2015 calendar, as well.
6
DSA
10th ANNUAL TEXAS PARENT TO PARENT CONFERENCE June 13-14, 2014 Embassy Suites, Spa & Conference Center, 1001 McCarty Lane, San Marcos, Texas. More than 60 sessions for parents, family members, selfadvocates and professionals. For more information and registration, visit the TXP2P website at http://www.txp2p.org/training/conference.html. NATIONAL DOWN SYNDROME CONGRESS CONVENTION July 11-13 JW Marriott-Indianapolis, IN. General Convention for parents and educators; Youth & Adults Conference for individuals with Down syndrome ages 16 and older; Brothers & Sisters Conference for siblings of those with DS; and Kids' Camp. Registration is open and Y&A Conference is filling fast! For more information and registration visit the NDSC convention website at http://convention.ndsccenter.org/.
www.dsastx.org
Inaugural H.U.G.S. Gala! Help Us Give Support
Gala Committee Maria and Pete Hey, Gala Chairs Jayna Halliday Barbara Spinner DSASTX Staff The total amount raised at this incredible event was $85,000, and we are already planning for next year’s 2nd annual HUGS Gala! HUGS Gala Volunteers,
On March 20th, the DSASTX held its inaugural HUGS Gala at the beautiful JW Marriott Resort and Spa to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. There were 230 guests who enjoyed an amazing evening that began with a cocktail reception followed by dinner and music provided by the Johnson High School Quartet. The guests also enjoyed a wine pull and a chance at a Destination Getaway raffle to the Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona, two Southwest Airlines tickets, and a $500 Visa gift card. Congratulations to Gary Legan for winning the raffle! Maria and Pete Hey, co-founders of the DSASTX, were the Gala chairs. The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation was honored for all their support of the DSASTX. Steve Spriester, KSAT 12 News Anchor, was the Master of Ceremonies. Mary Ann and Belarmino Castellanos shared their story of Luke, their 2-year-old son, and how the DSASTX and many families provided support when they received the diagnosis of Down syndrome. We would like to thank the following event sponsors:
It is with great pleasure that we honor our wonderful volunteers from the inaugural HUGS Gala! We would like to extend our appreciation to all the volunteers who helped us make history as we celebrated World Down Syndrome Day. We would like to thank our Grande Communication volunteers, Stephanie Qualls and Deidra Stevens, for helping to set up the Wine Pull table and centerpieces. We also appreciate the dedicated University of Incarnate Word School of Physical Therapy volunteers who have taken a personal interest in helping those with Down syndrome and other special needs. The following UIW students did a great job executing the first ever DSASTX Wine Pull: Victor, Taylor, Leah, Erin, Roxy, David, Rebecca, Emily, Justin, Lauren and Amber. Once again, THANK YOU to all of our amazing volunteers!
Helpers The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation M & D Management, Inc. MSM, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Ramseur Underwriters Valero Veronica and Ruben Escobedo Mr. and Mrs. William Latham Givers Whataburger H-E-B CST Brands Supporters Anderson-Jenkins Signature Homes Avnet Christy and Kevin Anderson Construction Restoration Group Deerfield Animal Hospital Dr. and Mrs. Morgan Dunne Dr. Michael Battista Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Hill Mr. and Mrs. Noe de la Garza Haynes and Boone, LLC Frost Bank
DSA
7
Keeping Up With Downs
Meet Lola
By Frank and Monica Pedroza
This is our spunky little angel, Lola Michaela Pedroza, and it’s Lola's birthday month! She will be two years old on April 14th! Here she is in her birthday outfit from last year’s 1st birthday – a one of a kind Jalisco traje made especially for her. Mommy hopes that she will follow in her footsteps and dance Folklorico as soon as she can! Lola is our only child, but she has the best “cuzzie” (cousin) Araceli who is 4 years old. These two just love to hang out together, play together, and get into some trouble together! Lola also has two BFFs who are special angels just like her, Castellanos and Adrienne Rose Alvarado. We try to hang out with Lola Michaela Pedroza each other and have play dates (for both the kids and the parents!) when our schedules allow it. We love our DS family and friends, and we have found so much comfort and support in them. Lola is truly our "miracle" baby. After we married in our late thirties, we immediately tried to conceive. The first pregnancy resulted in an ectopic pregnancy, a miscarriage, and then losing my right fallopian tube, so immediately we were down to half the chance of conceiving. From 2007 to 2011, we tried fertility treatments. Although we tried everything at least once, we never conceived with the help of those treatments; however, between the treatments, we did conceive on our own twice! Unfortunately, both pregnancies resulted in miscarriages. Finally, in 2011, when we seemed to accept that we would not be parents and started to plan a life of traveling with no responsibilities as parents, we conceived again, and this time the pregnancy was a success and our Lola was born! Lola spent two weeks in the NICU when she was born. Even though it seemed like an eternity, we learned so much and met so many wonderful doctors and nurses at Methodist. (Shout out to nurse Laura!) Lola had open heart surgery at the tender age of six months, October 5th, now known as her “Happy Heart Day!” She was born with Tetrology of Fallot, better known as "blue baby syndrome.” We are so grateful to Dr. Mary Porisch and Dr. John Kupferschmid for repairing Lola's heart. In November of this year, Lola was in the hospital for seven days with RSV. She had her first taste of turkey from the hospital cafeteria, and it was delish!
8
DSA
Of course, Lola has therapy five times a week. She has occupational, physical, and speech therapy through Restorative Health Care and ECI. She seems to have the most success with her OT, Mr. Richard Schwarz. He is awesome and gets so excited when she reaches a goal! Lola’s first words were "Doh" (no), "Dada or Dayee" (daddy), "Tata" (grandpa) and "Mama" (not as often as Dada). Lately she has been saying "ball" and "night night." Her absolute favorite word is "Papa!" She is a very good eater and just says "papa" over and over when she sees her silver food tray or her high chair. She has also mastered a few words in sign language. She knows more, milk, papa, socks, and shoes. She also knows "no no no no no", as she points her finger and shakes it back and forth! Recently, she mastered "come here.” She makes a fist then opens her little fingers all at once over and over to motion for you to come here. Of course, she waves hello and good bye all of the time. She seems to have a "professional pageant wave” already! Lola naturally loves music and shows it by closely paying attention to the song, smiling when someone sings to her and, of course, dancing! She has mastered the xylophone, banging away at the colorful keys with great enthusiasm. She is also very serious and intense when it comes to scribbling on her doodle pad. She places her face as close as she can to the doodle pad, not allowing us to view her "masterpiece" until she is done! A true artist in the making! Lola loves to play pat-a-cake and peek-a-boo. She covers her eyes for quite a bit of time and then all of a sudden – “BOO!” She also loves to throw hand kisses and blow kisses. She is now successfully pointing to her nose, ears, pansa (tummy), and "poochie patas" (stinky feet)! Lola also loves the mirror. Whenever she is crying, we simply show her the mirror and ask, "Who's that pretty princess?" We also remind her that she is "smart, kind and important" and then her tears stop and a big beautiful smile emerges! Although we are "older" parents and have constant worries and fears about our precious angel's future, the love that fills our hearts for her and the faith that we have in our good Lord masks those worries and fears. We know that with our family and friends and our new DS family, we can conquer any obstacle that will come our way! "For this child we prayed." (1 Samuel 1:27)
Baby Item Donations Needed! The DSASTX provides baby bags and information packets to new families. We are currently accepting donations of NEW, UNUSED baby boy and girl items (under 2 years old). If you are able to donate new items with tags still on them, please drop them off at the DSASTX office or call us at (210) 349-4372.
www.dsastx.org
Self-Advocate News
By Jessaca Bond
This article is about self-advocacy. I think this is an important topic because I’m very passionate about improving the lives of people with disabilities by helping to change the way people think about us. For me, the best way to do that is to be a selfadvocate. It is also important to get Jessaca Bond involved in our local advocacy agencies. We have the responsibility to do that. I hope to provide some resources, ideas and encouragement. Knowledge is power so let’s go out there and learn all that we can so we can become effective self-advocates! I am currently attending the Project MOVE (Mobilize and Organize their Voices to Empower) class offered by the ARC of Texas. MOVE aims to provide self-advocates, family members, and allies of people with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) the knowledge and tools to effectively advocate. What this means is that in the class we talk about the history and philosophy of the disability movement, how to advocate, how to build a strategy, how to work with other people with the same issues, and how to best communicate with your legislators and what’s going on now (current issues). People can email or call Kari Brock (kbrock@thearcoftexas.org or (512) 454-6694, Ext. 7760) for more information, or they can visit the website www.thearcoftexas.org to apply for the next class.
more about the ABLE Act online at www.ndss.org/advocacy or www.autismspeaks.org/advocacy. Would you like to know what district number you are in and how to find who represents you? Well, there is a way to find out. There is a website called “Who represents me?” All you have to do is type in your name and your address, and it will show you your district number and your list of representatives. Contacting your representative is not hard to do. One way is by writing a letter, which I did, to my representative about the programs that I’m in. Through the MOVE class, I got good examples of the right way to do it. I would recommend that you grab their attention by finding paper that will stand out from all the other mail they get. I used brightly colored paper. It must have worked because he wrote back to me! I have really enjoyed the Project MOVE classes and want to continue to learn more about legislative self-advocacy. In April I will be going to the capitol in Austin to participate in a mock legislative hearing, I’m so looking forward to it! I hope I have helped anyone interested in being a self-advocate. It is fun and very exciting! Again, if you want to learn more or be part of the next class, you can contact Kari Brock, MOVE Advocacy Coordinator, at kbrock@thearcoftexas.org or (512) 454-6694, Ext. 7760.
I think the first step is to find local groups to get involved with. I researched online and found some you might be interested in looking at: San Antonio League of Self-Advocates (SALSA), (210) 828-7125; DisabilitySA.org; San Antonio Independent Living Services (SAILS), www.sailstx.org; Parent to Parent, www.txp2p.org; and of course, the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas (DSASTX), www.dsastx.org. Another way to stay on top of things is through The Arc of Texas website at www.thearcoftexas.org. You can sign up for Action Alerts so that you know when big things are happening at the capitol (committee hearings, votes, etc). Now that you are getting involved, what’s next? Everyone will have some ideas about what needs to be addressed: issues with schools, medical needs, or in the workplace. I would like to talk about two current issues. The first one is a new state law, SB7. SB7 will affect anybody getting Medicaid. By September 1, 2014, you will need to pick a managed care provider for acute medical services. That is just the beginning of the law; there is a lot more and it is very important! For more information, visit the website: www.capitol.state.tx.us. The ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Act is federal legislation (chapter R647/S313) that aims to ease financial strains faced by families by making tax-free savings accounts available to cover qualified expenses such as education, housing, and transportation. I say YES to this bill, what do you say? You can find
DSA
9
Keeping Up With Downs
Summer Programs The following is a partial list of summer programs that accommodate for children with special needs. Start now to prepare for a successful summer! ANIMAL BOTANICAL SATURDAYS & SUMMER CAMPS Hands-on learning and fun for youth with special needs ages 7 and older at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston, San Antonio 78209. Contact Timothy Roan at (210) 207-3278 or timothy.roan@sanantonio. gov. Summer Camps: August 11-15 (ages 7-12) and August 18-22 (ages 13-19). 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Fee: $150/week (10% discount for members). https://www.sabot.org/?nd=animalbot THE ARC OF SAN ANTONIO – LIFE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS After school (2:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.), holiday and all day summer care (7:00 a.m.-6:30 p.m.) for individuals 5-18. The Arc of San Antonio, 13430 West Ave., San Antonio 78216, (210) 490-4300. The Arc of San Antonio – Pam Stephens Center, 6530 Wurzbach, San Antonio 78240, (210) 682-4200. http://arc-sa.org/pages/services/life-enrichment-children/ A-Z Music Therapy 20770 Hwy. 281 North, Suite 108-188, San Antonio 78258. (210) 3921277; Stefanie@a-zmusictherapy.com.www.a-zmusictherapy.com A.W.A.R.E. San Marcos Therapeutic horseback riding and sports riding for individuals with physical, mental and/or emotional disabilities. (512) 754-6773. http://www.awaresmtx.org/ CAMP C.A.M.P. Summer overnight camp sessions located in Centerpoint, Texas for individuals with special needs (ages 5-50) and their siblings (ages 5-13). Parents’ Night Out, Respite Weekends, and Teen and Adult Day Adventure programs are also available. (210) 671-5411. http://www.campcamp.org/ CAMP PALS Weeklong overnight camp for young adults with Down syndrome ages 18-25 at the University of Texas at Arlington. May 25-31. Contact dallas@camppals.org. http://www.palsprograms.org/ CAMP SUMMIT Summer weeklong camps, weekend sessions, and respite days in Argyle, Texas for individuals with disabilities ages 6 and up. (972) 484-8900. www.campsummittx.org DEER CREEK ADVENTURE CAMP – FRIENDS WEEK A Christian overnight camp for children and adults with special needs ages 7-19 in Medina, Texas. August 4-9. (830) 589-7123. http://deercreekcamp.com/ DISCOVERY MEADOW STUDIOS Celebrations, Kindermusik Adventures, and Camps allow children of all ages to learn and play within a rich environment of music, art, or science. 424 Weidner Road, Cibolo, Texas 78108. Contact Sally at (210) 455-7387 or sally@discoverymeadowstudio.com. http://www.discoverymeadowstudio.com/ Dreams Fulfilled Through Music Music programs for youth and adults with disabilities. Contact Mary Kathryn Archuleta at (210) 771-5809. http://dreamsfulfilledthroughmusic.org/ ENABLED SUMMER CAMP A youth camp for people with disabilities of all ages where you can worship freely with other believers. Lakeview Camp and Retreat Center, Waxahachie, Texas. July 28 - August 1. (765) 301-1305. http://www.enabledteam.org/
10
DSA
EVA’S HEROES SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM Six weeks of fun and exciting activities for individuals ages 14-21. Nellie Reddix Center, 4711 Sid Katz or 13526 George Road, Suite 110. (210) 694-9090. Download flyer at: http://www.evasheroes.org/ JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER Inclusive programming for children who are typically developing or have special needs. Four-week sessions and 1-week sessions. Kindergarten through 8th grade. 12500 NW Military Hwy. (210) 302-6820. http://www.jcccampsanantonio.org/ KINETIC KIDS Sports and recreation for all abilities. A variety of summer programs at various locations. (210) 748-5860. http://www.kinetickidstx.org/ MARBRIDGE SUMMER CAMP Summer overnight camp at Manchaca, Texas designed for individuals ages 16-30 with cognitive challenges or developmental disability. (512) 282-1144, Ext. 1204. http://www.marbridge.org/summer-camp MONARCH ACADEMY AT MORGAN’S WONDERLAND Weeklong summer day camps for children with special needs and siblings ages 9-15. Managed by the YMCA. 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. 5235 David Edwards Dr. http://monarchacademy.net/index.php/ news-and-events/upcoming-events/147-summer-camps MORGAN’S WONDERLAND The world’s first ultra-accessible family fun park. (877) 495-5888 or (210) 495-5888. https://www.morganswonderland.com/ Respite Care of San Antonio Mother’s Day Out, Family Day Out, Parent’s Night Out, and Developmental Daycare Center. (210) 737-1212. http://www.respitecaresa.org/ R.O.P.E.R. (Riding Opportunities Promoting Exceptional Riders) Horseback riding for individuals with disabilities. 4991 Higdon Rd. Contact Sherri Mell at (210) 633-2042. http://www.freewebs.com/roperapp/ THE SADDLE LIGHT CENTER FOR THERAPEUTIC HORSEMANSHIP Equestrian therapy for individuals with special needs. Summer session: June 9-August 8. Retama Equestrian Center, 17530 Old Evans Rd., Selma, TX 78154. (210) 651-9574. http://www.thesaddlelightcenter.com/ SAN ANTONIO BUSY BODIES A nonprofit motor behavior and learning program. 11985 Starcrest. (210) 545-2840. http://www.sabusybodies.org/ SOAR – Summer Outreach and Recreation Program Weeklong summer day camp for kids 6-17 years old with intellectual developmental disabilities offered by Mission Road Ministries, 8706 Mission Rd., San Antonio 78214. Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (210) 334-2427. http://missionroadministries.org/programs/children/soar-summer-camp TEXAS ELKS CAMP Summer weeklong overnight camp for children with special needs ages 7-15 located in Gonzales, Texas. (830) 875-2425. http://www.texaselkscamp.org/ TEXAS LIONS CAMP Summer weeklong overnight camp for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12-16. July 13-19. (830) 896-8500. http://www.lionscamp.com/default.html Triple H EQUITHERAPY Equine assisted activities and therapy for people with disabilities. 791 Backhaus Rd., Pipe Creek, Texas 78063. (830) 510-9515. http://triple-h.org/
www.dsastx.org
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. Alexandra Nichols Alfred Gerloff Alvino Martinez Arlene Pollock AT&T United Way Employee Giving Campaign Avnet Barbara Semmelmann Beth Frederickson Beverly A. Reynolds Bradley Shoffner Camille Woodside Carmen Eiker Center for Maternal Fetal Care Central Park Lions Club Foundation Charles Crain Christopher Warczak Clay Richey Conrad Housler CVS Caremark-Annual Giving Campaign Dana Bruner Debra Albright Elna Jeanes Enterprise Holdings Foundation Floyd Schultz Janice Troy Jay Sirkel Joey Maldonado Joseph Hernandez JP Morgan Chase Foundation Kathy Ann A. Carrizales Keith M. Askin Kohl's Cares Lisa Drozdick Lisa Tramontano Lydia Beach Maria E. Weaver Maria Hey Michelle L. Pettit Mike Agee Oscar Pablos Patricia Greenwood Pearson Phillip Rollins Rachel Langas Raul Chapa Rick Villarreal Rick Wyckoff Russell Watson San Antonio Legacy Group, LLC Stephen Ramseur Ted Fowler Terri Mauldin Todd Wyckoff Tracy Burton TRUiST United Health Group - Employee Giving Campaign USAA Virginia Davis Walter Wesley Johnston William Cade William Holt
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
community outreach coordinator Kelly Toepperwein (210) 349-4372 • ktoepperwein@dsastx.org
Special 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
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairperson – Edward Leos Vice Chairperson – Michelle Pettit Secretary – VACANT Treasurer/Finance – Christy Anderson Member at Large – Debbie Albright Member at Large – Jessaca Bond Member at Large – Barbara Samfield Member at Large – Eric Swellander Member at Large – Noe de la Garza Member at Large – Lamont Jefferson Member at Large – Stephanie Anderson Member at Large – Scott McLean Member at Large – Lisa Drozdick Member at Large – Judith Moening
www.facebook.com/downsynstx www.twitter.com/downsynstx www.pinterest.com/downsynstx
DSA
11
Calendar of Events MAY 3 Teen Club: Mother’s Day bracelet making, DSASTX office, 2800 NW Loop 410, 10 a.m. 3 Adult Matters: Mother’s Day bracelet making, DSASTX office, 2800 NW Loop 410, 11 a.m. 6 Big Give S.A. celebration – “Big Hearts and Hats off for the DSASTX”, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6-8 p.m. 15 New Braunfels PSG: Brighton Center, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-8 p.m. 18 Annual DSASTX Picnic: Landa Park, New Braunfels, Pavilions 4, 5 and 6, 1-6 p.m. 20 San Antonio Southside PSG: Epic Health Services, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6-8 p.m. 21 Spanish PSG: Por Determinar, YMCA Westside, 2900 Ruiz, 5:30-7:30 p.m. JUNE 3 San Antonio Northside PSG: Epic Health Services, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6-8 p.m. 7 Audrey’s Day at the Beach: Rockport Beach Park, Rockport, TX, 8:30 a.m.-dusk 17 San Antonio Southside PSG: Epic Health Services, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6-8 p.m. 18 Spanish PSG: Brighton Center, YMCA Westside, 2900 Ruiz, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 19 New Braunfels PSG: Open Forum, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-8 p.m.
JUNE 19 New Braunfels PSG: Open Forum, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-8 p.m. 24 D.A.D.S.: Dave & Busters, 440 Crossroads Blvd., 7 p.m. JULY 1 San Antonio Northside PSG: How to Understand the ARD Process for Your Child, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6-8 p.m. 15 San Antonio Southside PSG: Kinetic Kids, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6-8 p.m. 16 Spanish PSG: Por Determinar, YMCA Westside, 2900 Ruiz, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 17 New Braunfels PSG: Epic Health Services, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-8 p.m. AUGUST 5 San Antonio Northside PSG: Epic Health Services, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6-8 p.m. 16 DSASTX Day at Splashtown: 3600 IH 35 North, checkin at 10:30-11 a.m. 19 San Antonio Southside PSG: Medicaid Waiver Programs, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6-8 p.m. 20 Spanish PSG: Brighton Center, YMCA Westside, 2900 Ruiz, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 21 New Braunfels PSG: How to Understand the ARD Process for Your Child, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-8 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