BrowardGold CoastDown SyndromeOrganization

FROM THE DESK OF OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTORIt’s that time of year again! School is over and hopefully everyone is enjoying their summer.We have some exciting news this year! Broward Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is proud to introduce our own brand for our annual walk. We have named it STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 WALK & 5k RUN (formerly known as The Buddy Walk & 5k Run).So many volunteers, sponsors and amazing people are responsible for the Buddy Walk’s success. This is a natural progression for Broward Gold Coast to move on and create our own walk. The mission and goals of the walk are the same, to promote inclusion and celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month.Broward Gold Coast has been an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society for 25 years. It is the NDSS that helped us learn and prepare for the Buddy Walk. We will remain an affiliate of the NDSS as we continue to support their mission, however, we will not be using their trademark “Buddy Walk” for our walk as a percentage of the proceeds are paid to the NDSS.For some time now, our Board of Directors has discussed having our own walk (not affiliated with the NDSS) to enable us to keep all proceeds generated from the walk locally. As Broward Gold Coast continues to grow, our fundraising efforts must grow as well. We hope in the future to offer even more services to our members and the community.Thus, STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 WALK & 5k RUN has been created. There will be some exciting changes to the walk and hopefully everyone will enjoy. Please remember, this is our main fundraiser and we need everyone to come out and support YOUR organization. It always takes a team effort.See you at STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 WALK & 5K RUN on Sunday, October 21st! Diane De Braga, Executive Director

Calendar of Events

www.bgcdownsyndrome.org

UPDATES & NEWS2018Summer/Fall

• Thursday, July 12thFlorida Consortium on Inclusive Higher EducationHartwick Symposium Series: Secondary and Family FocusOrlando, FL (flyer sent separately)

• Saturday, August 4th, 11a.m. - 1p.m.Water Park EventCalypso Cove, Margate (flyer to be sent by Kristina)

• Thursday, September 20th, 10a.m.DS Committee of Broward ESE Adv. MeetingDavie Police Dept.

• Saturday, September 29th, 10a.m. - 2p.m.JDCH Children with Special Needs Family Resource FairSignature Grand, Davie

• Sunday, October 21st, 8:30 a.m.Step Up 4 Down Syndrome 2018 Walk & 5k RunMarkham Park, Sunrise

• Thursday, October 25th, 10:00 a.m.DS Committee of Broward ESE Adv. MeetingDavie Police Dept.

• Saturday, October 27th, 10a.m. - 3p.m.The Expo 2018Alvin Sherman Library at Nova Southeastern University, Davie

• Thursday, November 15th, 10a.m.DS Committee of Broward ESE Adv. MeetingDavie Police Dept.

World Down Syndrome Day at Courtney Studios

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD)World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), March 21st, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.

Down Syndrome International (DSi) encourages our friends all over the world to choose their own activities and events on WDSD to help raise awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have

Down syndrome, and how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities.

Broward Gold Coast celebrated with many activities throughout many schools in Broward, and participating in our photo exhibit on display at Gallery 2014 as part of Hollywood Art Walk. Several of the local restaurants participated by wearing our WDSD t-shirts while serving their customers. Many thanks to Daniela Roeder, creator of this amazing concept and to Courtney Ortiz for donating her time in capturing our beautiful children.

A huge thank you to all the volunteers who provide support in the following areas.

STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 WALK & 5K RUN

Coordinators: Christina Schulz & Jennifer Guitar

Website/online Registration: Christina Schulz, Jennifer Guitar & Mayra Squarini

5k Run: Victoria Whitson

Teams: Desiree Fries

Sponsors: Diane De Braga

On-site Registration: Bach Todaro

Volunteer Coordinator: Lucy Whitson

Raffles: Patty Morgan

Media: Michelle Ault

Graphic Designer: Lisa Hoddinott

Thanks to Karine Saranga & Verna Lowe for assisting with the planning.

You are all the reason this year’s walk will prove to be even better!

Start a Team Teams consist of individuals who collectively raise donations in the name of their team. The teams that register 20 walkers or raise $200 by September 30, 2018 are eligible for the “I am …” signs. For more information, please contact our Team Coordinator’s, Desiree Fries and Jennifer Guitar at SU4DSTeams@gmail.com.

Walk & 5K Run

2018

Sunday, October 21, 2018 Starts 8:30 am

Markham Park:16001 W State Rd 84, Sunrise, FL 33326

Gate entrance fee: $1.50/person (children 5 & under free)

Register for SU4DS & 5K Run atwww.bgcdownsyndrome.org/SU4DS

Mothers Day Shopping Extravaganza FundraiserThank you to the Whitson Family for hosting this event once again at their home. Retail therapy was enjoyed by everyone who purchased items such as sandals, purses, makeup, baked goods, jewelry and more. Percentage of sales were donated to Broward Gold Coast.

We have a STAR!In conjunction with the National Down Syndrome Society and Broward Gold Coast, our newest member Zachary Dobbins, was chosen to appear in the Procter and Gamble Pampers commercial, watch out for him! Congratulations!

Sports & Recreation ProgramsAYSO VIP Program AYSO VIP program provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults - whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. Practices held Weston. For further information, please contact Valeska McDonald at vrmg13@gmail.com ayso644.org

Best BuddiesPairs people with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with middle & high school students. Also offers a program for adults. 3325 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 954-449-6522 bestbuddiesflorida.org

Equine-Assisted Therapies of South FloridaTherapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted activities for children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional difficulties. 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-974-2007 equineatsf.org

The Miracle League The Miracle League is an organized youth baseball league for the physically and mentally disabled. Everyone hits and everyone scores. Contact Alex Bello (954)224-0835 wppomiracleleague.com

Parkland Buddy SportsNon-profit organization that offers structured sports programs for special needs children and young adults. 954-753-9430 parklandbuddysports.com

Pembroke Pines Special Population ProgramsCity of Pembroke Pines provides recreational and educational programs to those with special needs. Programs include wheelchair sports, Special Olympic training, specialty camps, special events and educational field trips. 954-450-3663 ppines.com

Special OlympicsOversees county sports training and competition for developmentally disabled children ages 8 and up. Provides training through schools and individual programs. 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-262-2150 specialolympicsflorida.org/broward

Coral Springs special Populations Boogie Down Dances, Saturday Social Club & Dinner Club. For more information, 954-345-2200, www.coralsprings.org Broward County Special Populations SectionPlans, develops, implements, and evaluates a variety of year-round recreation and leisure programs, special events, and services to meet the interests and needs of children, teens, adults, and seniors with disabilities. Programs are designed to develop, enhance, and/or maintain leisure skills, motor skills, socialization, and overall well-being as well as to promote fun and enjoyment. Office: 954-357-8170 954-537-2844 (TTY), Broward.org/Parks

Broward Elite All Stars CheerTeamBroward Elite Cheer Abilities team has been competing nationally since 2007. New this year will be a non-competition class for those that prefer not to compete. We would love to see new faces at team sign ups, please come join us! Team practice and classes are usually Saturday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Broward Elite All Stars , 6800 SW , 21st court #6-10, Davie, Fl 33317

321 DanceAnother amazing event hosted by Gordon and Patricia Garland.Everyone had a blast dancing and we welcomed a surprise guest appearance by DJ Laz. Thanks to everyone who donated raffle items and a BIG THANK YOU to the Garlands for their efforts in putting this event together year after year.

211 Broward2-1-1 Broward is the live, 24-hour comprehensive helpline, providing all people with crisis, health and human services support and connecting them to resources in our community.Broward Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization won the Publix Choice Award of $1,000.00. Thank you to everyone who voted every day.

Exceptional Services GroupExceptional Services Group strives to improve quality of life with client-centered consultation and training across home, school, recreational and vocational environments

Exceptional Services Group consists of a team of highly qualified individuals dedicated to improving the lives of the people we serve.

We insure a safe environment that focuses on the needs of our customers.

OUR PROGRAMS

Exceptional Vacations - Providing high quality supervised vacation opportunities for over ten years for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Exceptional Wellness - Team of licensed professionals dedicated to providing high quality, confidential counseling and therapeutic services for individuals, families and groups.

Why We’re SpecialDedicated to Providing Opportunities for Personal Growth.

Exceptional Services Group provides wonderful opportunities for personal growth, normalization, and socialization in a safe and fun atmosphere.

Our entire professional staff are dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality of services.

We guarantee a safe environment that promotes integration, socialization, friendship and fun.

Exceptional Services Group strives to improve quality of life with client centered consultation and training across the home, school, recreational and vocational environments.

Our MissionTo reach this goal we currently offer two divisions of services. Our Exceptional Vacations division provides high quality supervised vacation opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities and other special needs. We also arrange custom trips for groups with special needs. Our Exceptional Wellness Division offers a highly qualified team of licensed therapists. Exceptional Wellness also offers other therapeutic services such as yoga and mindfulness classes taught by registered teachers in a small class environment.

Please take a look at the services we offer. If you have any questions or need any additional information please contact us. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Exceptional Services Group, L.L.C.9070 Kimberly Blvd., Ste, 50, Boca Raton, FL 33434(561) 852-0910Toll Free: (866) 748-8747info@exceptionalservices.netwww.exceptionalservices.net

DE LA DIRECTORA EJECUTIVALa época del año ha llegado! Espero que todos estén disfrutando el verano ya que la escuela ha terminado.

Este año tenemos grandes noticias! La organización de Síndrome de Down de Boward Gold Coast esta súper orgullosa de presentar nuestra propia marca para la caminata. La hemos llamado CAMINATA Y CARRERA 5K STEP UP 4 DOWN SYMDROME 2018 (antes conocida como Buddy Walk y Carrera 5K)

El éxito de la caminata Buddy Walk es el resultado del trabajo de muchos voluntarios, patrocinadores y personas maravillosas. Es natural para la fundación Broward Gold Coast de avanzar y crear nuestra propia caminata. La misión y la meta son las mismas, promover la inclusión y celebrar el mes de crear conciencia del Síndrome de Down.

Por 25 años Broward Gold Coast ha sido afiliado a la Sociedad Nacional de Síndrome de Down, NDSS. La Sociedad Nacional de Síndrome de Down son los que nos han ayudado a aprender y a prepararnos para la caminata Buddy Walk. Nosotros continuaremos siendo afiliados a la NDSS y continuaremos apoyando su misión, sin embrago; no continuaremos utilizando su marca “Buddy Walk” para nuestra caminata ya que un porcentaje de las ganancias de la caminata van a la NDSS.

Nuestro panel directivo ha estado discutiendo hace algún tiempo tener nuestra propia caminata (sin ser afiliados con la NDSS) para permitirnos mantener localmente todas las ganancias generadas de la caminata. Como Gold Coast continua creciendo, nuestros esfuerzos en recaudar fondos deben crecer también. En el futuro esperamos poder ofrecer más servicios a los miembros de nuestra comunidad.

Por lo tanto, la Caminata y Carrera 5K STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 ha sido creada. Habrán algunos cambios muy emocionantes que esperamos todos disfruten.

Por favor recuerden que esta caminata es nuestra principal forma de recaudar fondos y contamos con el apoyo de todos para SU organización. Siempre se necesita un esfuerzo de equipo.

Nos vemos en la Caminata STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 el Domingo 21 de Octubre!

CONECCION EN ESPANOL

Calendario De EventosJueves, Julio 12Consorcio en Inclusión para la Educación SuperiorFeria de Simposios Hartwick: Enfocado a la Familia y la SecundariaOrlando, FL.

Sábado, Agosto 4 11:00 am – 1:00 pmEvento Parque de AguaCalypso Cove, Margate

Jueves, Septiembre 20 10:00 amReunión del Comité de Síndrome de Down de Broward ESEEstación de Policía de Davie

Sábado, Septiembre 29 10:00 am – 2:00 pmJDCH Feria de Recursos para Familias de Niños con Síndrome de DownSignature Grand, Davie

Domingo, Octubre 21 8:30 amCaminata y 5K Step Up 4 Down SyndromeMarkham Park, Sunrise

Jueves, Octubre 25 10:00 amReunión del Comité de Síndrome de Down de Broward ESEEstación de Policía de Davie

Domingo Octubre 27 10:00 am – 3:00 pmLa Exposición 2018Librería Alvin Sherman, Universidad Nova Southeastern

Jueves, Noviembre 15 10:00 amReunión del Comité de Síndrome de Down de Broward ESEEstación de Policía de Davie

DE LA DIRECTORA EJECUTIVALa época del año ha llegado! Espero que todos estén disfrutando el verano ya que la escuela ha terminado.

Este año tenemos grandes noticias! La organización de Síndrome de Down de Boward Gold Coast esta súper orgullosa de presentar nuestra propia marca para la caminata. La hemos llamado CAMINATA Y CARRERA 5K STEP UP 4 DOWN SYMDROME 2018 (antes conocida como Buddy Walk y Carrera 5K)

El éxito de la caminata Buddy Walk es el resultado del trabajo de muchos voluntarios, patrocinadores y personas maravillosas. Es natural para la fundación Broward Gold Coast de avanzar y crear nuestra propia caminata. La misión y la meta son las mismas, promover la inclusión y celebrar el mes de crear conciencia del Síndrome de Down.

Por 25 años Broward Gold Coast ha sido afiliado a la Sociedad Nacional de Síndrome de Down, NDSS. La Sociedad Nacional de Síndrome de Down son los que nos han ayudado a aprender y a prepararnos para la caminata Buddy Walk. Nosotros continuaremos siendo afiliados a la NDSS y continuaremos apoyando su misión, sin embrago; no continuaremos utilizando su marca “Buddy Walk” para nuestra caminata ya que un porcentaje de las ganancias de la caminata van a la NDSS.

Nuestro panel directivo ha estado discutiendo hace algún tiempo tener nuestra propia caminata (sin ser afiliados con la NDSS) para permitirnos mantener localmente todas las ganancias generadas de la caminata. Como Gold Coast continua creciendo, nuestros esfuerzos en recaudar fondos deben crecer también. En el futuro esperamos poder ofrecer más servicios a los miembros de nuestra comunidad.

Por lo tanto, la Caminata y Carrera 5K STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 ha sido creada. Habrán algunos cambios muy emocionantes que esperamos todos disfruten.

Por favor recuerden que esta caminata es nuestra principal forma de recaudar fondos y contamos con el apoyo de todos para SU organización. Siempre se necesita un esfuerzo de equipo.

Nos vemos en la Caminata STEP UP 4 DOWN SYNDROME 2018 el Domingo 21 de Octubre!

9900 West Sample Road • Suite 339 • Coral Springs, FL 33065954.825.0400 • www.bgcdownsyndrome.org

Any Questions?Lucy Whitson, President shopgogirl@aol.comBach Todaro, V.P. bt.bgcdso@gmail.comNancy Smith, Treasurer Diane De Braga, Director ddebraga@bgcdownsyndrome.org

Broward Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization • Statement of Policy and DisclaimerThis newsletter reports items of interest relating to Down syndrome and provides a forum for others. The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization does not promote or recommend any therapy, treatment, etc. Gold Coast will not espouse any particular political or religious view. Individuals or organizations referred to are not necessarily endorsed by this publication or its editor. We wish to bring together those interested in Down syndrome and attempt to create an optimistic outlook and attitude. The editor reserves the right to make corrections as are appropriate and in accord with established editorial practice in material submitted for publication. Please submit articles to ddebraga@bgcdownsyndrome.org.

BrowardGold CoastDown SyndromeOrganization

BGCDSO’S Teen

Dinner>

GuardianshipOnce your child reaches the “age of majority” (18 years old), he/she holds all of their legal rights. For MANY kids, that’s appropriate and independence should be encouraged to the greatest extent possible, however there are also young adults who will need ongoing support and will need a guardian advocate. This would require a transfer of rights that can only come as a result of being legally

named as your child’s legal guardian. This requires a court order. The parent must petition the court to be appointed. Once a child turns18, even if they have a developmental disability, the parent does not automatically retain the right to make medical, educational, or legal decisions for their child.In the past it had been that a parent had to retain an attorney to handle the transfer of rights, however, this has changed, and parents can complete the necessary paperwork for at least some parts of this process online. www.17th.flcourts.org/probate-and-guardianship/ It is important to know that if your child is 18 or above and holds all of their rights, and there is an issue with your school where you feel like due process may be appropriate, you, as the parent, will face great limitation. Your child will need to be the one to file, agree to changes on their IEP, sign for evaluations, etc. For some that is appropriate, but if it’s not in your family’s case, don’t wait for this to be an issue when you need it most. Learn about your rights TODAY to exercise your rights tomorrow.There is strength in knowledge.

Mother’s Day at Field of Flowers