Happy New Year and Happy 1st Anniversary to Down Syndrome Advocates in Action (DSAA NE)!   It is hard to believe that it has just been one year since we made our first official public post. 

As 2016 draws to a close, we want to thank you for allowing us be a part of your lives.  We are happy to be here for you to offer resources, support and guidance. It is our sincere wish that DSAA will continue to be where you turn when you need to.

As the newest support group for Nebraskan's who have a loved one with Down syndrome we had an awesome first year. Here are some of the highlights.
Created a new website
Lobbied and testified to help pass the Down Syndrome Information and Support Act 
Held an awareness walk
Provided support for families
Hosted events like ball night, parent coffees, family picnic, & teen and adult holiday party
Did peer presentations
Attended IEP's
Participated in ONE Coalition to help put on events like the Valentine Dance and Husker Heroes.  
Celebrated Down Syndrome Awareness Month with a poster campaign and blog challenge
Created a resource library
And last but not least:
Elected a board, adopted bylaws, incorporated, and officially became a 501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit Organization. 
 
It is amazing what a small group of people can do when they are called to be advocates. We are looking forward to what 2017 will bring. Your voice is important and we value your input and look forward to hearing from you about new programing you woud like to see going forward. Other ways you can make a positive impact on the Nebraska Down Syndrome community would be to:
Volunteer
or
Donate

We appreciate any and all support that allows us to continue our existing programming and create new programs to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome. We have some great ideas for 2017, and can't wait to share them with you.  We would love to hear your great ideas as well! Be sure to Connect with us and invite others to do the same.  
 
Wishing you all a safe and prosperous New Year!  
Keep Advocating.
 
Deb Safarik, President
Angie Willey, Vice President & Secretary

Today we celebrated National Inclusive Schools week by going to a school and doing a peer presentation for a 3rd grade class who happens to have a classmate who has Down syndrome.  The kids were great and I think they enjoyed participating in our presentation. The school is doing a great job of promonting inclusion for all learners.  While we were there, we got to see a few of the teachers and administrations be recognized for the great job they are doing in they are doing with inclusion at their school.  Thank you for allowing us to speak to your class and teach you a little bit about Down syndrome

 Many local teens and young adults enjoyed themselves last night at the Holiday Party held at the Safarik house.  The theme of the party was Grinch and there were games, karaoke, pizza, gifts and cookie decorating.  The creat your own grinch contest was a lot of fun.  No one complained that the cookies were gluten free, since they still tasted great with a little frosting.  We hope everyone had as much fun as we did!  
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