Last Week's Meeting
RCY welcomed Michele Jones and Debbie Williams of the Down Syndrome Association of the Valley (DSAV) to our meeting last week. DSAV is a non-profit organization that was formed by Michele and her husband Ken, along with Kelly and Chris Donadio after the births of their children with Down Syndrome. Finding very few local resources, they decided to hold a picnic so families with children of Down’s could support each other and share their experiences. When 100 people showed up, they knew there was a great need in this area for services.
DSAV was formed in 2007 to provide support, resources, and education to families and foster a climate of independence for individuals with Down Syndrome. DSAV membership is made up of families who have a child, grandchild, or sibling with Down Syndrome as well as more than 1,000 medical professionals, educators, and therapists who benefit from DSAV resources. Membership has tripled in size since 2007.
In 2009, the Down Syndrome Center for Success opened its doors, giving families a broad range of services. There are fitness programs, new parent support groups, a resource library, prenatal support, and grants to families for medical expenses not covered by insurance.
Plans are underway to expand the existing facility from 1100 square feet to 2400 square feet, allowing DSAV to provide even more services to its families. A life skills kitchen, fitness center, yoga classes, a baby and toddler area, and swimming lessons are some of the new features that will be available.
Debbie Williams, director of operations at DSAV, coordinated the agency’s participation in the iCan Bike program, a national endeavor for people with disabilities ages 8 and up, and part of the iCan Shine program. Over the course of five consecutive days, participants gradually learn balance and other skills needed to ride a bike. The goal at the end of the program is for individuals to be riding on their own.
DSAV supports it operations through various fundraising events. The annual DSAV Buddy Walk is the main fundraiser, and will be held this year on September 18 at Eastwood Field. The upcoming Designer Bag Bingo is sold out, but you can support DSAV by purchasing Ohio Down Syndrome license plates, shopping at the DSAV online store or on Amazon Smile, or by making a donation.
More information about DSAV and its programs can be found on their website: www.DSAV.org.
