Exceeding_Expectations

Please click on the link above to read the story that appeared in the Frederick News Post on May 12, 2012.

The Family Resource, Information & Education Network for Down Syndrome (F.R.I.E.N.D.S.) believes that our future lies in the hands of our teachers/instructors.  The better we can assist them in achieving their goals and set them up for success, the better our kids have a chance for a brighter future.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is offering scholarships of up to $1000.00.  To be considered by this organization you must be a legal resident of the United States, at least a full-time student in a public or a state government recognized private school to be considered for this scholarship.  There are two further areas of qualification of this scholarship:

a. You must be an individual with Down syndrome seeking higher education in any field of your choice; OR

b. You are student that plans on at least a bachelors degree in Special Education or a career in helping the needs of those individuals with Down syndrome.

Application forms are available below.  Hard copies are available by contacting Denny Weikert at 240-415-0522, email friendsoffredco@gmail.com or by writing to F.R.I.E.N.D.S., P.O. Box 641, Middletown, MD. 21769.

All applications must be postmarked by June 30, 2012.

The scholarships will be awarded at our major fundraiser, Buddy Walk, on September 22, 2012.  Recipients of the scholarships will be notified prior to the walk.

Please click on one of the links below download the Scholarship Form…

Scholarship Appl Form_2012 (Adobe PDF)

Scholarship Appl Form_ 2012 (MS Word)

Dear NDSC Affiliate,

We invite you to view a few videos of persons with disabilities and their families. Two of the videos feature individuals with Down syndrome (Emily and Abby). The professionally produced videos are the first in the Possibilities Series.

Abby Loy (DS):  http://youtu.be/ELUbi2zhUNk

Emily Diebolt (DS):  http://youtu.be/1wdNPlXsfCc

The Possibilities Series of videos focuses on the lives and accomplishments of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Each 4-7 minute video highlights one individual’s journey, along with their family and friends, and shows the myriad possibilities and options that all people have as they grow up, become independent, and pursue their life’s dreams and goals.

The purpose of the Possibilities Series is to present a vision of how individuals with disabilities and their families can lead the lives that they envision, without barriers and in the direction they truly wish to go. The hope is that these films are viewed and used by anyone who wants to explore all of the possibilities that their lives may hold!

The first installment of the Possibilities Series (2012) has been produced by the Developmental Disabilities Institute at Wayne State University in Michigan and filmed and edited by Avalon films.

We are hopeful the video series provides insight and inspiration to all viewers, and especially to families of children with disabilities. Enjoy, share the link(s), or post to your Facebook or webpage!

Santorum says prenatal testing leads to abortions. Read Tucker Carlson’s classic essay on prenatal testing and the abortion of Down syndrome babies.

By Tucker Carlson|Posted Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at 2:45 PM ET

Click here to read article.

Each year, thousands of people from across the globe attend the National Down Syndrome Congress Annual Convention. For most, it’s to hear the latest information from world-renowned experts. For others, it’s a great vacation. But, for nearly all, there’s the one-of-a-kind NDSC family reunion feeling that permeates the convention weekend. In July 2012 our 40th Annual Convention will be heading to our Nation’s Capitol in Washington, DC. From your house to the White House, it will be an opportunity to share in the milestones of the last 40 years, advocate for continued progress through a Day on the Hill, and embrace all individuals with DS as they live the dream. We hope to see you July 19 -22, 2012 for the 40th Annual NDSC Convention.  Click here to go to NDSC webpage.

Advocacy Day on the Hill

For 40 years, the families of the NDSC have advocated for a world of equal rights and opportunities for people with Down syndrome. Now it’s your turn! On Thursday, July 19th, the day before our convention begins, NDSC will be hosting a Day on the Hill – a chance for you to visit with your U.S. Senators and Representative. Training will be provided to help ensure that you have a great visit. It’s free and easy and can make a huge impact in this election year. While you’re in Washington, take the time to make your voice heard. If not now, when?

Souvenir Journal Message Opportunity

The NDSC invites exhibitors, speakers, vendors, families and others to place a message in the convention program, the Souvenir Journal. Inclusion of your message shows your support for the work of the NDSC and all of its affiliate members and assists us to better serve persons with DS. The Souvenir Journal will be distributed to more than 2,500 attendees. Messages may provide information, recognition, good wishes or may memorialize an individual. Business logos and photos may be included.

2012 Hotel Reservations

The Hotel Reservation Link for the Mariott Wardman Park is now open. Please visit the Hotel & Travel section for more information.

REGISTRATION DEADLINES

Registration will open March 5, 2012
Best Value Rate: June 8
Youth & Adults w/DS: June 8 (or when capacity is reached)
Brothers & Sisters: June 8
Kids’ Camp: June 8 (or when capacity is reached)
General Convention: June 27
Pre-Conferences: June 27

We need you to help us with these three things:

1)     Mark November 9^th on your calendar and add this giving link.

2)     Follow us on Facebook and Twitter  and help build the buzz.

3)     Spread the word!  Forward this email to your family and friends along with a personal note as to why you believe in our work, and why they should give on November 9^th.

11th Annual Buddy Walk

Saturday, Sept. 22, 2012

Baker Park, Frederick, MD

Save the date!!