Keeping Up With
Down Syndrome Association of South Texas • 2800 NW Loop 410 • San Antonio, TX 78230 • (210) 349-4372
Volume 15, Issue 4
OCTOBER 2013
What’s
inside...
Executive Director................... 1 Holiday Party........................... 1 Buddy Walk........................... 2,3 Information Meetings............. 4 Teen Club................................. 5 Playgroup.................................. 5 Looking Forward..................... 5 Adult Matters!.......................... 5 Kid Connection....................... 5 Disability Benefits................... 6 Outreach................................... 7 Meet Emma Katherine........... 7 Self-Advocate News................ 8 HUGS Inaugural Gala............ 8 Fiesta Especial.......................... 9 ACE Program......................... 10 Resource Guide...................... 10 Contributions......................... 10 Achiever Award..................... 10 Pearson Publishing................ 11 Run For 21.............................. 11 ARC Workshop Series.......... 11 Who We Are.......................... 11 Calendar of Events................ 12
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Message from Terri Mauldin ... Wow, just wow! That’s all I can say about this year’s Buddy Walk! We had approximately 5,500 people at the event to help celebrate those we love with Down syndrome. Thank you to all the volunteers, donors, families, and the DSA staff for making this year’s Buddy Walk the most successful EVER! I hope you take a minute to read all about the great event within this newsletter. Next year’s Buddy Walk will be on Saturday, September 27th, so mark your calendars! During the next several months, we have quite a number of things going on for the Down syndrome community, as well as the DSASTX. Our monthly social activities continue to bring lots of children and adults together, along with their families. Please watch your emails and mailboxes for reminders on upcoming events and be sure and call or email the DSASTX office to RSVP for all our events. We try to arrange for special pricing (if there is a fee) based on the number of people attending, so please help us plan for these events by calling us to register.
The DSASTX Holiday Party will be held on Tuesday, December 17th at the Live Oak Civic Center located on Pat Booker Road. Due to renovations at La Villita Assembly Hall, we have Terri Mauldin to move the event just this year. We will have food, drinks, music, visits with Santa, and raffle prizes. Remember, the child with Down syndrome and their immediate family (parents and siblings) will be free. All extended family members and friends will be $5 in advance. Be sure and check out the details below and mark your calendar! We are in the planning stages for our inaugural H.U.G.S. Gala, Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day on Thursday, March 20th, 2014 at the JW Marriott Resort and Spa. More information can be found on page 8.
We will have an exhibit booth at the annual AccessAbility Fest on Sunday, October 27th. We hope you will plan to attend and stop by to say hello!
Holiday Party! Tuesday, December 17, 2013 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Live Oak Civic Center
8101 Pat Booker Road, Live Oak, TX 78233
Please join us for the Annual DSASTX Holiday Party. This year the party is in a NEW LOCATION!
Keeping Up With Downs
Buddy Walk 2013 By Terri Mauldin
What a fantastic Buddy Walk we had this year! It was the BEST yet with more than 5,000 people coming out to walk! Because of you, the families and friends of children and adults with Down syndrome, we raised over $170,000 for the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas and the National Down Syndrome Society. This money will go to help support the many programs and services that are provided by the DSASTX and assist the NDSS in their research, advocacy, and education initiatives.
After the walk, participants enjoyed a wide array of festivities including moon bounces, face painting, arts and crafts, basketball hoops, and of course, the train ride. The wonderful sound of great dance music was provided by DJ, Richard Hughes, from Baby Huey’s.
This event would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the Buddy Walk committee. We also require a large number of volunteers at the walk to make it a success. So, THANK YOU to all the committee members and volunteers!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following exhibitors who displayed their services to the special needs community:
We would like to congratulate the participants that were the winners of some awesome prizes! Heart and Sole for Adrienne and Gracelyn (Adrienne Alvarado and Gracelyn Perez), Getting’ Sporty with Georgie (Georgie LeGrand), and Luke’s Lucky Buddies (Luke Castellanos) were each winners of a VIP canopy, a goody basket and a team banner for being the top team fundraisers. A drawing was held for the individual fundraisers who raised over $500. Georgie LeGrand won a beach house stay in Port Aransas, thanks to Pete and Maria Hey; Lucas Velasquez won a 2-night stay at the Westin La Cantera Resort, thanks to the Westin; Gracelyn Perez won an appearance in the 2015 DSASTX calendar; and Luke Castellanos won an all-in-one printer, thanks to Texas Copy Office. We also had a contest for the person who raised the most money online in the final week before Buddy Walk, and the winner was Adrienne Alvarado! She received a gift card to Simon Mall and four passes to Alamo Drafthouse. This was our fourth year at Heroes Stadium, and it was incredible. The venue was a wonderful location with its wide expanse of space. Thank you to the North East Independent School District for allowing us to use the facility. We can’t wait to be at Heroes Stadium again next year! We were extremely honored to have Bruce Bowen, former Spurs player, serve as our Honorary Buddy. We would also like to thank Frito Lay’s Chester the Cheetah and Sailor Jack, the Coyote, Funky Monkey and numerous other mascots for coming to the walk and showing their support. The Buddy Walk would not be the same without the Johnson High School JROTC Color Guard presenting the colors, including our very own Billy Cade, Jr. who held the Texas flag during the presentation. Thank you to Rebecca Greeban, with helpers Gabriel Hey, Katie Kennedy, and Briana Troy, for singing the National Anthem. Then, of course, we loved having Cat Paws and troop warm all of us up for the walk with their incredible enthusiasm and songs. After the opening ceremonies, Bruce and the top teams were led by the Johnson High School JROTC on a one-mile walk around Heroes Stadium.
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A Plus Pediatric Rehab Ability Pediatric Therapy AccessAbility Fest Ageless Living Home Health, LLC Any Baby Can Brighton School Child’s Play Therapeutic Homecare Children’s Association for Maximum Potential Circle of Care CrossFit Pandemonium Cute Smiles 4 Kids D.A.D.S. (Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome) Deer Creek Camp Dreams Fulfilled Through Music EduCare Community Living Encompass Home Health Pediatric Services Eva’s Heroes Frito-Lay Interim Healthcare Kinetic Kids Little Engine Homecare Mosaic Monarch Academy at Morgan’s Wonderland Morgan’s Wonderland New York Life Insurance Company Pathways Youth and Family Services Pearson PerryLee Home Healthcare Services, Inc. R & K Specialized Homes Respite Care of San Antonio River City Community Church San Antonio Children’s Museum Speech & Language Center at Stone Oak The ARC of San Antonio Therapy 2000
www.dsastx.org We had a record number of corporate sponsor support this year from the community. Thank you to the following sponsors: Presenting Sponsor ($25,000) Valero Great Buddy ($10,000) HEB Tournament of Champions Avnet Big Buddy ($5,000) Royal Management Speech and Language Center at Stone Oak Grande Communications Super Buddy ($2,500) River City Community Church The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation AHMSA International Special Buddy ($1,500) North Park Lexus Whataburger Cool Buddy ($1,000) Mr. W Fireworks Deerfield Animal Hospital All State, Jim Boren Agency Institute for Women's Health Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union Children’s Hospital of San Antonio Ageless Living Home Health, LLC Broadway Bank Frito-Lay Buddies (Under $1,000) Frost Bank McCombs Foundation Great Events Penske Truck Rental Baby Huey’s DJ & Sound System Holt-Cat Parties, Picnics and Promotions Simply We Side A Fects American Medical Response The Westin La Cantera North East ISD Balloon Productions Century Music System Northern Hills Texas Copy Office
This year’s Buddy Walk was a testament of success, and let it be known that our volunteers are the best!!! The Buddy Walk volunteers ranged from 15-year-old high school students to college students, parents, families and friends. Some started their Saturday morning at 5AM to help set up 30 tents, 80 tables and 500 chairs. Some helped at the BUSY registration and merchandise booths. Some were passing out promotional material for our amazing corporate sponsors and over 5,000 water bottles to guests, while others assisted in the fun children activities. Finally, some helped with cleaning up and loading the trucks! Whew! That’s a ton of work, and they all did it with enthusiastic smiles on their faces! Some highlights from this year’s event include: • Over $170,000 raised for the DSASTX • Record breaking attendance at over 5,500 Buddy Walkers • Over 30 community agencies/exhibitors • 2,000 bottles of water were donated • 260 registered volunteers for over 1,500 hours of service • An additional 130 volunteers arrived to help at “O dark hundred”! A special shout out goes to various groups at Johnson High School for providing the majority of our volunteers! Another shout out to our Churchill High School volunteers for capturing all of the amazing Buddy Walk pictures! Two exceptional volunteers stood out to our Board Chairman, Edward Leos, and his wife Jennifer at their Run for 21 Booth. At one point, Edward and Jennifer got busy talking with families in another area and these two dedicated young men noticed that no one was working the Run for 21 Booth, so they decided to step in. These high school students, Brandon Eastwood and Eric Williamson, took a proactive and innovative volunteer approach – they busted out their cellphones, googled Run for 21 and took over the booth! They researched what Run for 21 was and started explaining it to people walking by! These are some of the volunteers who went above and beyond to help make this year’s Buddy Walk the biggest and buddy-est EVER!
We would also like to personally thank Frank Przyborowski for all his help in recruiting members of the military to help unload all the t-shirt boxes and then load the two trucks with all the heavy items prior to the walk. We couldn’t do it without all your help, Frank! Thank you!
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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 Group 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 x 245 at least 48 hours in advance. Please leave a detailed message when making a reservation. Tuesday, NOVEMBER 5 Topic: Functional Life Skills Speaker: Lupe Castaneda, Behavior Specialist Tuesday, december 3 Topic: How to Profit Through Research Programs Speaker: Jenni Ward, Pearson Tuesday, January 7, 2014 Topic: Positive Behavior Intervention Speaker: Jennifer Fitzhugh, Brighton Center Tuesday, FEBRuary 4, 2014 Topic: CPR Classes, Non-Certification Speaker: Jenny Schreve, H.E.L.P.
SAN ANTONIO – SOUTHSIDE De Paul Family Center 7607 Somerset Road San Antonio, TX 78211 Our Southside Parent Information Group is held the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. A light dinner is served. Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASTX office at (210) 349-4372. We look forward to seeing you there! TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Topic: Transition Plan, Preparing For Your Child After High School Speaker: Jennifer Fitzhugh, Brighton Center TUESday, DECember 17 NO MEETING DUE TO HOLIDAY PARTY Join us: 5:30 p.m. at Live Oak Civic Center TUESday, JANUARY 21, 2014 Topic: Adult Continuing Education Speaker: Oralia Lara, DSASTX ACE Coordinator TUESday, FEBRUARY 18, 2014 Topic: CPR Classes, NonCertification Speaker: Jenny Schreve, H.E.L.P.
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BOERNE Boerne Parent Information Meetings are currently on hold until 2014. Please stay tuned!
NEW BRAUNFELS Gruene United Methodist Church 2629 East Common Street, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 Our New Braunfels Parent Information Group (serving Comal and Guadalupe counties) is held on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. A light dinner is served. Childcare is available with a required RSVP to the DSASTX office at (210) 349-4372. We look forward to seeing you there! THURSDAY, november 21 Topic: Planning for the Financial Future of Your Loved One Speaker: Paul Fernandez (parent), NY Life THURsday, DECember 19 Topic: How to Profit Through Research Programs Speaker: Jenni Ward, Pearson THURSday, JANUARY 16, 2014 Topic: Yoga, Health and Coordination Benefits for Individuals with DS Speaker: Emily Aven THURSday, FEBRUARY 20, 2014 Topic: Positive Behavior Intervention Speaker: Jennifer Fitzhugh, Brighton Center
D.A.D.S. Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome, or D.A.D.S., is a committee or community group (within a local Down syndrome support organization) of fathers of children who happen to have Down syndrome. We hesitate to call ourself a “support group”, even though we do, in many ways, support each other. We invite expert speakers to discuss medical, educational, financial, social, and any other issues that affect our children’s lives. And of course, we share stories and experiences that are unique to fathers of children with Down syndrome. WEDNESday, NOVEMBER 13 Come watch the Spurs vs. Wizards at Buffalo Wild Wings, 7903 Pat Booker Road, 78233. 7:00 p.m. TUESday, DECEMBER 17 Annual Holiday Party - Live Oak Civic Center 8101 Pat Booker Road, 78233. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
www.dsastx.org
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 Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 – YOUNG CHEF'S ACADEMY 1-Hour Cooking Class, 20330 Huebner Road, #110, 78258. 10:00 a.m. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 – ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY Live Oak Civic Center, 8101 Pat Booker Road, 78233. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 2014 – INCREDIBLE PIZZA 11743 West Avenue, 78216. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Playgroup
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 Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 – YOUNG CHEF'S ACADEMY 1-Hour Cooking Class, 20330 Huebner Road, #110, 78258. 10:00 a.m. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 – ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY Live Oak Civic Center, 8101 Pat Booker Road, 78233. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 2014 – MONSTER MINI GOLF Glow in the dark miniature golf, 2267 NW Military Hwy., 78213. 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
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 Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 – MAGIK THEATER "Willie Wonka", 420 South Alamo Stret, 78205. 1:30 p.m. (Showtime @ 2:00 p.m.) TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 – ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY Live Oak Civic Center, 8101 Pat Booker Road, 78233. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. JANUARY 2014 – Kindermusik is Back! Details to come!
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 Kerin Croft at kcroft@dsastx.org or (210) 349-4372. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9 – MAGIK THEATER "Willie Wonka", 420 South Alamo Street, 78205. 1:30 p.m. (Showtime @ 2:00 p.m.)
Looking Forward MARCH Playgroup / Kid Connection – Fiesta Farm Teen Club – Miniature Golf Adult Matters – Spring Formal Everyone – Inaugural H.U.G.S. Gala
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 – ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY Live Oak Civic Center, 8101 Pat Booker Road, 78233. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. SATURDAY, JANUARY 18, 2014 – INFLATABLE WONDERLAND 6909 N. Loop 1604E, #2063, 78247. 10:00 a.m. - 12 Noon
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Disability Benefits Down Syndrome and Social Security Disability Benefits Parents of children with Down syndrome often face numerous obstacles in the daily care of their children. Prominent amongst these challenges are the increased expenses that accompany caring for a child with Down syndrome. Oftentimes, children living with Down syndrome require increased levels of support in many aspects of their lives. Although individuals with Down syndrome may be able to secure and maintain employment as they get older, they will often continue to require supportive care and assistance throughout their entire lives. This can pose a significant financial burden to both the individual with Down syndrome and their family. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes this financial burden and offers Social Security Disability benefits to eligible children and adults who have Down syndrome. It is important to note that adult and child applicants have different rules and requirements. The following article is intended to provide information about applying for disability benefits on behalf of children under the age of 18. Social Security Disability Insurance The SSA provides two different programs through which your child may be able to receive benefits. These programs are Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is intended to provide benefits to disabled workers and their eligible family members. Eligibility for this program is based on the amount of Social Security taxes an applicant has contributed throughout their career. Due to a lack of employment history, children usually don’t qualify for this program; however, if a parent or guardian of the child is already receiving SSDI benefits, the child may qualify under the parent’s record. Children over the age of 18 (adult children), who were diagnosed with Down syndrome under the age of 22, may also qualify for SSDI benefits under a parent’s record. To learn more about SSDI dependent benefits, visit the following page: http://www.disability-benefitshelp.org/glossary/auxiliary-benefits. Supplemental Security Income The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is typically better suited to serve the needs of children with Down syndrome. This program was created to provide benefits to disabled individuals of all ages who have very little income and financial assets. SSI does not have any age or work requirements and is generally a better option for children. Because most children have no income or financial resources, the SSA evaluates household income in order to determine a child’s eligibility. SSI eligibility requirements state that family income cannot exceed the Federal Benefit Rate. The 2013 Federal Benefit Rate is $710 a month for an individual and $1,066 a month for a couple. The following forms of income do not count towards this limit:
• Welfare payments • Public Income Maintenance (PIM) • Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) • VA pension for veterans • Foster care payments • Food stamps • Disaster assistance • Building or land tax refunds
The SSA subtracts $356 from the household income considered for each additional child supported by that household. These allowances are not made for children or adults already earning public assistance. To learn more about SSI financial requirements, visit the following page: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/text-child-ussi.htm. Medical Qualifications In addition to the previously mentioned technical requirements, children applying for disability benefits must also meet specific medical requirements. In order to determine an applicant’s eligibility, the SSA consults the official manual of disabling conditions and medical criteria. This manual is often referred to as the blue book. Down syndrome is covered in section 110.6 of the blue book. This listing states that persons with non-mosaic Down syndrome automatically meet the SSA’s standards of disability. The SSA considers children with non-mosaic Down syndrome to be disabled from birth. It is important to note that parents must provide the appropriate medical proof of Down syndrome in order to meet this listing. Children with mosaic Down syndrome do not automatically qualify as disabled due to the wide variety of impairments associated with this strain of the syndrome. The SSA requires that applicants with mosaic Down syndrome verify their limited physical or mental disabilities through medical documentation. The applicant is then evaluated based on whatever physical or mental disabilities he or she has. To view the complete blue book listing for Down syndrome, visit the following webpage: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disability/ professionals/bluebook/110.00-MultipleBody-Childhood. htm#110_06. Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits To inquire about SSDI dependent benefits, contact the SSA representative who handles the eligible parent’s claim. He or she will be able to give you instructions as to how you should proceed. To apply for Supplemental Security Income, you will be required to attend an interview and complete the following two forms:
1) Application for Supplemental Security Income 2) Child Disability Report
The first form can be completed online; however, many parents find it easier to complete both forms at the time of the scheduled interview. It is important that you call the SSA to schedule your child’s interview as soon as possible. This is because there may not be an available appointment for several months. While you are waiting to attend your interview, you should use the
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www.dsastx.org time to collect all required medical and non-medical documentation to support your claim. You can find a list of all necessary documents here: http://www.ssa.gov/disability/ Documents/Checklist%20-%20Child.pdf. Once you have submitted an application on behalf of your child, patience is critical. It may be months before an individual receives a decision concerning their claim. Within this time frame, the SSA may contact you for additional information. Be sure to respond to these requests promptly in order to avoid any further delays in the approval process. While you wait, it is important to prepare yourself to face the possibility of denial. If your child’s claim is denied, you will have 60 days in which to appeal this decision. If you remain persistent in your efforts, you will increase your child’s chance of approval. Disability benefits will shoulder some of your financial burden and allow you to focus on the care of your child. For more information, visit Social Security Disability Help (http:// www.disability-benefits-help.org/blog) or contact Molly Clarke at mac@ssd-help.org.
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! Dr. Derek and Magaly Sanchez, parents of Mia Chelsea Farias and Nestor Sedea, parents of Matthew Gloria and Randall Samuelson, parents of Levi April and John Westerlund, caregivers of Jeff Honea Irma Huerta, parent of Melanie Garcia Katherine Johnson, parent of Diane Minerva and Rey Gomez, parents of Adrian Greg and Nelli Elizondo, parents of Lucas Vicki and Bill Patterson, caregivers of Sarah Bianca Amaro, parent of Benjamin Laurence and Levii Becerra, parents of Isaiah John Sandoval and Destiny Salazar, parents of Zailey Ereka Rodriguez and Ricardo Romero, parents of Juan Jennifer Martinez, parent of Analiese Maha Mohamed, parent of Elamin Belen and Juan Rodriguez, parents of Michelle “Lupita” Lia Garza, parent of Summer April Ritz, parent of Izaiah Amanda and Reid Bullock, parents of Callen Linda Garza, sister of Aurora Angel Garza and Linda Mendez, parents of Denise Antonia Moreida, parent of Kasi Eddie and Melissa Aleman, parents of Ariana
Meet Emma Katherine! Emma was born on 27 February 2011, 4 weeks early! Emma has been a bright shining light in her family and friends’ lives since the day she was born. Starting at the age of three months, Emma began attending the Brighton Center. Today, she is a very happy, active member of the Pre-K I class and plays and learns daily with children she met in the infant room. Twice a week, Emma receives therapy services at Stone Oak Therapy and Learning Center. She has worked with her wonderful therapists since she was four months old! Due to the hard work of Emma and her therapists, Emma is Emma Katherine unstoppable. Running, kicking a soccer ball, riding a scooter, and singing at the top of her lungs are just some of Emma’s favorite “therapy” activities. In addition to school and therapy, Emma enjoys swimming and tumbling classes on Saturday mornings. Emma has always loved the water, and is fearless going down slides and jumping into the pool in her Baby and Me Class! Emma has had the opportunity to travel extensively in her two years. In May of 2012, she traveled to Germany and Austria, charming everyone and proving that it isn’t impossible to fly several hours with a toddler! Emma is a very social little girl who is usually happy, but don’t let the smile fool you. The girl can go from happy to “mad” fast ... such is the attitude of a two year old. At home, Emma enjoys helping mommy bake and spends most of her time with her two best friends, Steven and Ben (the dogs). When Grandpa comes to visit, it’s usually off to the park to slide and swing. It is so exciting watching Emma grow and excel. She is just starting the process of being evaluated for preschool, so as we enter this new chapter, we pray for God’s guidance and wisdom. Emma seems to bring out the best in those around her. A trip to the grocery store usually elicits no fewer than five strangers coming to say hi to Emma. She is independent, determined, happy, smart, and maybe just a little bossy. There aren’t enough words to describe the blessing that is Emma. Our family simply thanks God daily that we were chosen to guide her and she to guide us!
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Announcing the Inaugural H.U.G.S. Gala!
Self-Advocate News By Jessaca Bond We hear the excuses of not wanting to get fit, right? I will name a few: “I'm too busy to go”, “I'm tired”, and “I don’t feel like going.” Well, let me tell you about my journey and how I got started in being fit.
Jessaca Bond First, I was like everybody else, I didn't want to, but as a family we decided to go for it. You all heard about my first 5K in Colorado Springs. Well, since then, I have done another 5K here in San Antonio at my church. I go to the fitness center pretty often and like using the bicycle, elliptical and treadmill machines. I also use the strength training machines. It's hard work and I get pretty sweaty, but I feel good about it after I'm done. There are many other ways to get fit that are fun for everyone. One of them is Siclovia, a fun-filled family event where you can run, walk and play in the street. This fall it was held on September 29th. A portion of Broadway Street was closed to traffic between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. You will see all types of bicycles, costumes and people just enjoying themselves. There are many types of fitness events to try, great food and fun times! The next Siclovia will be March 23, 2014, so mark your calendars! You can find more about Siclovia on the web and on Facebook. Many ways to encourage family fitness are offered through the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. One is the Fit Pass SA program that offers free or low-cost fitness opportunities. You can get fit and win prizes! The grand prize drawing will take place at Siclovia in March 2014. Let me tell you more about this. The "pass" in Fit Pass means passport. You can pick up a passport at a Fit Pass event or download one from the website: http://www.sanantonio.gov/ parksandrec/fitpassSA.aspx. There are versions in English and Spanish. The San Antonio Parks and Recreation website has a list of upcoming Fit Pass events, the rules, and much more information. Our city parks also offer great fitness opportunities like Fitness in the Park classes. Options include walking, running groups, zumba and bootcamps. There is something for everyone, all ages and fitness levels. You can find the schedule and available classes on the parks and recreation website. Also, many city parks have fitness equipment in the parks and along the walking trails. So, there is a group you can be a part of, some are intense, but some are like zumba so you can get your "dance" on. Maybe I'll see you at the next 5K! One more note: Our 13th Annual Buddy Walk was held on September 28th, and it was an awesome success! There were a lot of happy faces and fun times. Hope to see YOU next year!
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On Thursday, March 20, 2014, the Down Syndrome Association Help Us Gvie Support of South Texas will hold its inaugural H.U.G.S. Gala at the JW Marriott Resort and Spa, introducing Maria and Pete Hey as Gala Chairs and honoring Gordon and Maggie Hartman and the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation. The event will begin with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m.; dinner and program begin at 7:30 p.m. If you or someone you know is interested in attending and would like to help sponsor the event, the levels of sponsorship are as follows: $25,000 – Helping Sponsor (Presenting) • Included on invitation, all printed materials, and event letterhead
• Program/Podium recognition • Signage • (2) tables of (10) with preferred placement
$10,000 – Underwriting Sponsor • Included on invitation • Program/Podium recognition • Signage • (1) table of (10) with preferred placement $5,000 – Giving Sponsors • Included on invitation • Program recognition • (1) table of (10) with preferred placement $2,500 – Supporting Sponsors • Included on invitation • Program recognition • (1) table of (10) INDIVIDUAL TICKETS - $150 per person
Gordon & Maggie Hartman
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ACE Program
The Adult Continuing Education (ACE) program is an academic tutoring program that provides reading and math tutoring to students for 90 minutes per week. This program is specially designed for individuals with Down syndrome ages 18 and over. Oralia Lara, the ACE Director, begins by conducting an informal assessment of the client to determine his or her academic level requiring intervention. Additionally, Oralia provides training and orientation for the tutor volunteer by preparing the tutoring lessons. All sessions are provided on a complimentary basis as part of the services provided by the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas. If you would like more information about the program or if you are interested in volunteering, please contact Oralia Lara, ACE Program Director, at (210) 349-4372 or olara@dsastx.org.
Resource Guide
Guide to Home and Community-Based Services in Texas Now Available Do families of children with disabilities ask you for help finding services and supports for their children in their own homes and communities? Do you know adults with disabilities who need support so they can get or keep a job, live independently, or transition from a public school special education program? Do you know people who are elderly and want to get services and supports in their own homes rather than in a nursing home? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, Health and Human Services Commission has developed a guide you can use in talking with people who are elderly or families of youth and adults with disabilities about home and community-based services that may be available to them through Texas Medicaid. This guide, “Home and Community-Based Services: Which Programs Do What?” gives information about six programs that provide home and community-based services. These programs are sometimes called “Medicaid waivers” or “waiver services.” You can download the guide in both English and Spanish from the HHSC website at: www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/mc/WWDW-english.pdf www.hhsc.state.tx.us/medicaid/mc/WWDW-esp.pdf
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. Alcide Longoria Amanda Klaerner Armandina Galvan Coover AT&T United Way Employee Giving Campaign Center for Maternal-Fetal Care CVS Caremark-Annual Giving Campaign Dana Bruner DDK Deli's Inc. Debra Albright Donna R. Sutton Elizabeth Conant Elna Jeanes George Roberts Keller Williams Legacy Kohl's Cares Lisa Amador Lisa Drozdick Michael Drew Oak Hills Rotary Club Raul Chapa Roosevelt High School Sandra Wilson Stephen Ramseur TRUiST United Health Group - Employee Giving Campaign William Cade
Achiever Award Phillip Montalvo Receives Achiever of the Year Award!
The Arc of San Antonio recognized the accomplishments of people with developmental disabilities in our community at the Achievers of the Year Awards Banquet on Wednesday, October 9th at Morgan’s Wonderland. Phillip Montalvo was nominated by the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas as their Achiever of the Year! Phillip has been working very hard over the past six months to learn to read in the Adult Continuing Education (ACE) Program. After working with his tutor, Trey Edwards, every week, Phillip is now able to read three books and continues to make tremendous progress. On behalf of the Down Syndrome Association and The Arc of San Antonio, we congratulate Phillip on his dedication and his award!
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www.dsastx.org Pearson is the nation's largest publishing company of educational materials, clinical assessments, and intervention tools. Through a new partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas, Pearson is recruiting participants who will earn money while helping them "test the test". Before each new assessment is published, Pearson must gather data from typically developing children and adults, as well as those with a diagnosed disability. Not only will participants earn some money, they will also help represent the San Antonio area. Projects are continuous throughout the year, and participants can qualify for multiple sessions. If you would like to learn more about these opportunities, please join us at the next parent's meeting where a representative from Pearson will talk about how you can become involved. To speak directly with a Pearson assessment coordinator, please call (210) 954-3990.
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 Kerin Croft
210-349-4372 • kcroft@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
Jessaca Bond presents Edward Leos a Run for 21 contribution check at Buddy Walk 2013
Planning for the Future 2013 - 2014 Workshop Series All workshops are held at The Arc of San Antonio, Pam Stephens Center, 6530 Wurzbach, San Antonio, TX 78240 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 16, 2013 Topic: Social Security • Presented by: Packard Law Firm Saturday, January 11, 2014 Topic: College Options • Presented by: Larry Rodriguez, ESC-20 Saturday, March 8, 2014 Topic: Transition to Adult Health Care Presented by: Jeannine Pinner Saturday, April 12, 2014 Topic: Guardianship Presented by: Carol Bertsch, Elder Law Attorney Saturday, May 10, 2014 Topic: Special Needs Trust Presented by: Anna Torres, Attorney at Law and Haley Greer, Arc Master Pooled Trust Manager RSVP: Contact Heather Long by email, hlong@arc-sa.org or phone (210) 490-4300, Ext. 113
Chairperson – Edward Leos Vice Chairperson – Michelle Pettit Secretary – VACANT Treasurer/Finance – Eric Swellander Member at Large – Debbie Albright Member at Large – Jessaca Bond Member at Large – Barbara Samfield Member at Large – Tim McIntosh Member at Large – Christy Anderson Member at Large – Noe de la Garza Member at Large – Lamont Jefferson Member at Large – Stephanie Anderson Member at Large – Dr. Scott McLean Member at Large – Lisa Drozdick Member at Large – Judith Moening
The DSA is on Facebook!
Become our Friend at http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Down-Syndrome-Association-of-SouthTexas/145682488784297
DSA
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Calendar of Events november 5 San Antonio Northside PSG: Functional Life Skills, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6-8 p.m. 9 Teen Club & Adult Matters: Young Chef ’s Academy, 20330 Huebner Rd., #110, 78258, 10 a.m. 9 Playgroup & Kid Connection: Magik Theater Willie Wonka, 420 S. Alamo, 78205, 1:30 p.m. 13 D.A.D.S.: Spurs vs. Wizards, Buffalo Wild Wings, 7903 Pat Booker Rd., 78233, 7 p.m. 19 San Antonio Southside PSG: Transition Plan, Preparing for your Child after High School, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6-7:30 p.m. 21 New Braunfels PSG: Planning for the Financial Future of your Loved One, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-7:30 p.m. december 3 San Antonio Northside PSG: How to Profit through Research Programs, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6-8 p.m. 17 Annual DSASTX Holiday Party: Live Oak Civic Center, 8101 Pat Booker Rd., 78233, 5:30-8:30 p.m. 19 New Braunfels PSG: How to Profit through Research Programs, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-7:30 p.m.
january 11 Teen Club: Incredible Pizza, 11743 West Ave., 78216, 2-4 p.m. 11 Adult Matters: Monster Mini Golf, 2267 NW Military Highway, 78213, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 16 New Braunfels PSG: Yoga, Health and Coordination Benefits for Individuals with DS, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-7:30 p.m. 18 Kid Connection: Inflatable Wonderland, 6909 N. Loop 1604 E., #2063, 78247, 10 a.m.-12 noon. 18 Playgroup: Just Add Children, 7715 Mainland, Suite 123, 78250, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 21 San Antonio Southside PSG: Adult Continuing Education, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6-7:30 p.m. february 4 San Antonio Northside PSG: CPR Certification, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 6-8 p.m. 18 San Antonio Southside PSG: CPR Certification, De Paul Family Center, 7607 Somerset Road, 6-7:30 p.m. 20 New Braunfels PSG: Positive Behavior Intervention, Gruene UMC, 2629 E. Common St., 6-7:30 p.m. march 20 Inaugural H.U.G.S. Gala: JW Marriott Resort and Spa
january 7 San Antonio Northside PSG: Positive Behavior Intervention, Coker UMC, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Gibbs 1108, 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