Looking Back on March 2021

We celebrate our friends with Down syndrome all year long, but March is especially important to our community because of World Down Syndrome Day on 3/21! The DSAW Chapters spent the month prepping for various World Down Syndrome Day celebrations, both online and in-person, while our regular DSAW Connects programming continued. DSAW also recognized our important supporters virtually throughout the month.

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Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day… Virtually

Like all holidays, celebrations, and events, WDSD looked different this year. DSAW adapted our programming to virtual formats to make celebrating World Down Syndrome Day possible for everyone in our community. All you needed was an internet connection to get in on the 3/21 fun!

Celebrating on Social Media

DSAW invited our friends and followers online to post pictures on social media of their loved ones with Down syndrome. We encouraged people to use the hashtag #EXTRAordinary321 to highlight how their loved one exceeds expectations. DSAW also created its own Facebook frame so people could raise awareness about WDSD online.

DSAW’s Digital WDSD Party

Ahead of World Down Syndrome Day, DSAW and MADSS families logged on to Zoom for a Virtual WDSD Party! Participants played a Kahoot and answered some DS trivia. The event ended with a virtual dance party!

Check out our next Virtual Family Night on April 15th!

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World Down Syndrome Day Celebrations Across the State

DSAW- Central WI

DSAW- Central WI had an amazing time celebrating World Down Syndrome Day with GiGi's Playhouse Wausau on 3/21! DJ Andrew Patterson was taking song requests and he brought a bubble machine. Participants danced, enjoyed the nice weather, and ate delicious snacks and treats.

Thank you to all who attended and to the volunteers who made sure this event ran smoothly and safely! Thank you to ACE Kids Club for providing crafts and activities, Rachel Roelse and her family for sharing cupcakes and a WDSD cake, Texas Roadhouse Wausau, and Andrew Patterson/ DJ Buffet for his DJ services!

DSAW- Fox Cities

DSAW- Fox Cities had a GORGEOUS day for their WDSD Drive-Thru Event. The chapter leaders had a wonderful time seeing familiar faces and absolutely loved meeting some new families and welcoming them to the DSAW- FC family!

DSAW- Green Bay

DSAW- Green Bay enjoyed a very sunny World Down Syndrome Day on 3/21! The chapter had perfect weather to distribute goodie bags full of local treats outside. Thank you to the following businesses for contributing items for the goodie bags:

Poppin' Z's Gourmet Popcorn

Batter up bake shop

Village Roasters LLC

De Pere Cinema

Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream - Green Bay

And thank you Faith Lutheran Church Green Bay for letting us use your parking lot!

DSAW- La Crosse

La Crosse families had a blast at the DSAW- La Crosse WDSD Outdoor Party. Participants gathered outside for a picnic lunch and to pick up their one-of-a-kind World Down Syndrome Day posters. The whole community enjoyed seeing friends after these long months indoors. Already looking forward to WDSD 2022!

DSAW- Southeastern WI

DSAW- Southeastern WI had an EXTRAordinary time at their World Down Syndrome Day Drive-Thru & Celebration on 3/21! Chapter leaders and participants were so happy to gather in a socially distant way and celebrate their friends and loved ones with Down syndrome.

Thank you to all the families that stopped by and to our wonderful volunteers who helped the event run smoothly and safely.

DSAW- Sheboygan

Thank you to everyone who signed up to receive a World Down Syndrome Day goodie bag from DSAW- Sheboygan! We hope you had an EXTRAordinary day celebrating your loved ones with Down syndrome. We had a blast packaging up these swag bags and giving them to our community.

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30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala Awards

As part of our World Down Syndrome Day celebration, DSAW recognized the awardees that we intended to celebrate at our 30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala! Throughout the month, we sent out emails with information about our wonderful partners who helped to shape DSAW into what we are today. You can watch the awardee videos and learn more about them below!

30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala Awardees

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DSAW Webinar:

On March 24th, DSAW hosted a webinar that featured Dr. David Stein called “Supporting Positive Behavior in Children and Teens with Down Syndrome: The respond but don’t react method.” Dr. David Stein is the founder of New England Neurodevelopment, LLC, a pediatric psychology practice in the greater Boston area of Massachusetts (www.NENeurodevelopment.com). He is also the author of the book Supporting Positive Behavior in Children and Teens with Down Syndrome: The Respond, but Don't React Method (Woodbine House, 2016).

This webinar covered the basic neuroscience of Down syndrome and how it informs effective behavior management. It presented practical strategies for use in the home and school settings from childhood through transition to adulthood. Watch the recording of the webinar here.

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Health & Wellness Pop Up Class

Towards the end of March, DSAW hosted a health & wellness pop-up class that featured two guest speakers: a licensed dietician & a personal trainer. The first half of the class focused on being active! Participants swapped tips for exercising and being healthy right at home.

The second half of class was about eating healthy. The class learned about eating foods that are a variety of colors, learned about healthy cooking, and got a few recipes. The class also visually saw how much sugar is in one bottle of Coke. Everyone was shocked!

If you’d like to sign up for Pop Up classes, 30 additional units will be added to your plan. These are fun classes and events that will “pop up” during January- June. You can pick and choose which ones you’d like to attend! DSAW Instructors will turn to YOU for class ideas and actives! Questions about Pop Up Classes? Contact Mary, Adult Services Manager.

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DSAW Connects During March

Read on to see what our virtual classes have been up to!

Sports Talk

In our Sports Talk class, instructors work with self-advocates to help them co- lead the class and lesson plan! A participant, Sam, gave a powerpoint presentation about his favorite athletes and talked about his job experience working with the Shorewood High School Athletic Department girls/boys basketball teams!

Exploring Music & Movies

The class celebrated International Women's Day by exploring women in music & film. They looked at the history of women in the industry and explored some examples. The class ended with a video of the "Top 10 Girl Power Songs!”

Exploring Food

This class’s March theme was “Healthy Snacks.” Participants chatted about all their favorite healthy snacks! We learned what makes a snack healthy vs. unhealthy. Then we made a favorite healthy, no-bake snack: Energy Balls! Together we measured, rolled the balls, and washed dishes. Such a blast!

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Stream Team

Stream Team continues to enjoy chatting and playing activities over Zoom. This month we celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with a festive round of trivia.

DSAW Zoom Zumba

Zoom Zumba is a fun and FREE hour of fitness hosted by DSAW and MADSS. The class is guided by a certified Zumba instructor. Participants have enjoyed requesting songs and rockin’ out to the upbeat music.

Lifetime Achievement Award - Dr. David Smith

It is our honor to share with you all one final award before World Down Syndrome Day! Today, we celebrate Dr. David Smith with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Smith has done so much to help families who have a loved one with Down syndrome throughout his life. In addition to his role in starting the Down Syndrome Clinic at Children's Wisconsin, he played a crucial role in the founding of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, and he continues to be involved today as he helps DSAW to educate and train families and medical professionals. He is also father to Charlie, a 35 year old man who happens to have Down syndrome and who is Dr. Smith's biggest inspiration. Thank you Dr. Smith for taking care of people with Down syndrome and their families!!

This week, we will highlight each of the awardees that we intended to recognize at our 30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Distinguished Service Award - Debbie Merkel & Michelle Zoromski

We are thrilled to introduce you to two amazing DSAW leaders, the recipients of DSAW's Distinguished Service Award! Debbie Merkel and Michelle Zoromski of DSAW-Fox Cities were nominated from a statewide pool of candidates for their exceptional and distinguished service in support of DSAW's mission. We can't thank you enough for all you do for DSAW. Watch this video to learn more about Debbie and Michelle!

This award is sponsored by Ansay & Associates.

This week, we will highlight each of the awardees that we intended to recognize at our 30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Trailblazer Award - Maxwell Tegen

We're excited to announce the winner of DSAW's Trailblazer Award!! Max Tegen is a young man who knows no limits, who embodies the future generation of young adults with Down syndrome. He is an Eagle Scout, interns for a senator, graduated from Edgewood College, and rocks his extra chromosome! Hear more about the trails Max is blazing in the video below! Congratulations Max!!!

This award is sponsored by Wipfli.

This week, we will highlight each of the awardees that we intended to recognize at our 30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Corporate Citizenship Award - Cardinal Capital Management & Professional Construction Inc.

We want to recognize two of the fantastic companies that we have the privilege of calling family. Cardinal Capital Management and Professional Construction Inc. have not only shown us the transformative power of corporate giving, but they also dedicate their time and their talents to ensuring our friends with Down syndrome can achieve their greatest life possible. We are honored to present them both with DSAW's Corporate Citizenship Award. THANK YOU for the impact that you make every day. Check out the video to learn more about these wonderful partners.

This week, we will highlight each of the awardees that we intended to recognize at our 30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Estate Planning For Families With Individuals Who Have Special Needs

Brandon Prinsen and Katelyn Doyle, attorneys at Johns, Flaherty, and Collins, SC presented on estate planning for families who have individuals with special needs on February 4th during a DSAW webinar co-hosted by DSAW- La Crosse and Thrivent Financial. We are summarizing the presentation here. Please access the recording of the webinar for further information.

Why is estate planning so important for families who have individuals with special needs?

• A gift or inheritance can unintentionally affect an individual's need-based benefits.

  • Need-based Benefits include: Social Security, Disability, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicaid

    • These benefits cover shelter, food, clothes, services, and health care expenses (Medicaid).

  • 2021 Limits for Need-based Benefits

    • An individual receiving benefits can have a maximum of $794 per month in income and $2,000 total in available resources.

    • An individual receiving benefits must meet the legal definition of disability.

What makes up my "estate"?

• Bank Accounts

• Business Interests

• Car

• House

• Investment Accounts

• Life Insurance Proceeds

• Personal Property

• Real Estate and Land

• Stocks & Bonds

Estate Planning Documents: Will VS. Trusts

• Will

  • A will is a document prepared by an attorney.

  • The will designates an executor or personal representative.

    • In the event of your death, this person manages your estate and makes sure all assets passed through the will are dispersed to the beneficiaries you designated.

  • Expenses of administration

    • Your will states that the executor should use any assets or funds that pass through the will to cover any expenses that occur from administering your estate.

    • Things like funeral costs, debt, legal fees, etc.

  • Beneficiaries

    • You name your beneficiaries in your will.

    • Beneficiaries are the people who receive your assets.

      • children, relatives, charities, etc.

  • Guardianship

    • Your will designates a guardian for minors or individuals with disabilities.

      • The guardian takes care of the individual after you are deceased and is responsible for them.

    • A court rules on the guardianship decision later on, but the designation in the will informs that ruling.

    • It is recommended to designate a primary and alternate guardian within the will.

  • Testamentary Trust

    • A bank account that is outlined in your will (optional)

    • Declares that all assets in your will go into this trust and a trustee takes over to distribute assets to minors and individuals with disabilities according to the terms you set in the will and trust agreement

    • Requires declaring a guardian for children or individuals with disabilities

    • Any asset that passes through a will is subject to probate.

      • Probate is a process where the court gets involved to administer an estate.

      • There are fees and costs associated with probating an estate that you may want to avoid by setting up a different type of trust.

Revocable Living Trust

• A bank account that is set up with an attorney who drafts a trust agreement

• Alternative to setting up a Testamentary Trust

• Settlers are the people who set up the trust agreement.

  • Settlers have full control over the trust. They can change the terms at any time.

• Trustees are the people that manage the trust during their lifetime.

  • Upon their death or disability, there is a successor trustee that takes on responsibilities of managing the trust and making distributions to the beneficiaries named in the trust agreement.

  • Can be a family member, friend, trust company, or advisor

Supplemental Needs or Special Needs Trusts

• Why would you set up a Special/ Supplementary Needs Trust?

  • If all of your assets go to your child who has special needs, they could become disqualified from receiving SSI.

  • They would then have to use their inheritance to pay for things otherwise covered by SSI (food, shelter, clothing).

• How would I set up a Special/Supplementary Needs Trust?

  • You can establish a Supplemental/Special Needs Trust through a Testamentary Trust set up in your will or a Revocable Living Trust.

  • Recommended: Revocable Trust with Supplemental Needs provisions

The Different Kinds of Special/ Supplementary Needs Trusts

• First-Party Special Needs Trust

  • A trust established by an individual with a disability with the help of a guardian in the event the parents pass away without setting one up for the individual.

  • The individual can use funds in the trust to supplement what they receive from public benefits.

    • Community support, recreation, housekeeping services, education, health expenses not covered by Medicaid, etc.

  • Provisions in the trust restrict the funds from being used for things SSI covers.

    • food, shelter, and clothing

    • Payback provision

      • Whatever balance remains in the account upon the individual's death has to be used to pay back the state or federal government for Medicaid and SSI the individual received during their lifetime.

Third-Party Special Needs/ Supplemental Needs Trust

• Attorneys work with parents of an individual with special needs to establish a Special Needs/ Supplemental Needs Trust that will be funded by parents' assets.

• The child can then use the funds to cover what SSI doesn't cover.

• No payback provision

  • If the individual passes away, the assets go to other beneficiaries named by parents in their will.

• Pooled Special Needs Trusts

  • Type of Special Needs Trust through WisPACT, Inc.

  • Pooled investment and management trust

  • Typically used by people who don't have any trustees to manage assets and are looking for an organization or trust company to make distributions to their individual with special needs.

  • WisPACT, Inc. is responsible for making the distributions to the individual.

Funding Sources For a Supplemental/ Special Needs Trust

• Bank Accounts

• Investment Accounts

• Life Insurance Policies

  • Most common

  • Designate the trust as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy

• House

  • Real Estate passes into the trust, the trustee manages the house

  • The trust owns the house, not the individual with disabilities, so benefits would not be impacted.

• Lawsuit Settlement

ABLE Accounts

• A planning tool used in conjunction with Special/Supplemental Needs Trusts

• Tax advantage savings account created for individuals with disabilities

• The beneficiary is the account owner.

• Any income earned in this account is not taxed.

• Can hold up to $100,000 without affecting SSI benefits

  • Anything above that will cause SSI to terminate

  • The individual can reapply when funds are spent down

• Can be used to supplement SSI and Medicaid benefits and to pay for qualified disability expenses.

  • More flexible than what special needs trusts can be used for

  • Defined as "any expense related to the designated beneficiary as a result of living a life with disabilities"

    • Education, employment training, support, healthcare expenses, financial management services, and other services to improve their quality of life

Pillar of the Community Award - Bader Philanthropies, Inc.

Bader Philanthropies staff

We are proud to recognize Bader Philanthropies, Inc. as a Pillar of the Community! They have been such a huge part of the growth of our organization, and we can never thank them enough. They have provided the faith, funding, and friendship that launched the Chapter model in Wisconsin, DSAW-Family Services, our Alzheimer's and Aging Services, our housing initiative, and so much more! Take a look at the short video below that highlights our friends at Bader Philanthropies.

This week, we will highlight each of the awardees that we intended to recognize at our 30th Anniversary Extrava-Gala, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Looking Back on February 2021

During February, DSAW hosted virtual events, webinars, and the usual DSAW Connects classes. We also prepped for next month’s World Down Syndrome Day events!

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Notable Woman in Human Resources

Our Director of Operations & HR Abbey Nicholas was named a Notable Woman in Human Resources by BizTimes Media! She has worked for DSAW for 6 years, and in that time, she has helped transform our organization.
Read more about the incredible work she has done with DSAW in the article below!

Read More

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World Down Syndrome Day T-Shirt Fundraiser

T-Shirt Design (front)

The 2021 World Down Syndrome Day T-Shirt Fundraiser was one of the many ways DSAW plans to celebrate WDSD this year. Adorable t-shirts featuring our “putting the EXTRA in EXTRAordinary” design went up for sale on the DSAW website in preparation for 3/21. Anyone could purchase the t-shirts and a portion of the proceeds from their order benefitted the DSAW Chapter of their choice! At the end of the fundraiser, DSAW sold well over 400 t-shirts!

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DSAW Pop-Up Classes

DSAW Pop-Ups are fun classes and events that “pop up” during January- June. You can pick and choose which ones you’d like to attend!

Questions about Pop Up Classes? Contact Mary, Adult Services Manager.

Boundaries: Internet & Social Safety

This pop-up class discussed the definition of social boundaries, including when and how we use boundaries in our everyday lives. The session covered healthy relationships and keeping ourselves safe and unsafe in public and private places including the internet.

Game Night

Participants played fun ice-breaker games, answered jeopardy questions, and ended the night with a guessing game. A great opportunity to strengthen friendships among group participants!

Karaoke and Dance Party

This pop-up was a fun-filled hour with song and dance! The class sang along to karaoke-style songs including, Jonas Brothers, Disney favorites, and Justin Timberlake. There were dance breaks in between the songs that featured the classes’ favorite artists, Pharell Williams, Lady Gaga, and Luke Bryan.

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DSAW Webinar: Estate Planning For Families With Individuals Who Have Special Needs

DSAW- La Crosse and Thrivent Financial hosted a statewide webinar on February 4th. Brian Prinsen and Katelyn Doyle, attorneys at Johns, Flaherty and Collins, SC, presented an overview of need-based benefits and covered the use of Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts. The webinar concluded with a Q&A session during which attendees had their individual questions addressed by the presenters. The webinar was very well-attended by parents and caregivers around the state.

Access Recording 

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A Virtual Valentine’s Day!!

On February 12th, the statewide DSAW community celebrated Valentine’s Day with a virtual party! During the evening program, the group got in the holiday spirit by playing Valentine’s Trivia via Kahoot. Participants then followed along and created a “love bird” craft that they could give to loved ones as a valentine.

Check out the next DSAW Virtual Family Night

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DSAW- Central WI Active Moms

DSAW- Central WI is committed to producing new programming for caregivers this year! The newest addition is DSAW Active Moms! This is a free program for moms and caregivers that focuses on fitness and fun. The first outing took place at Underdown Recreation Area. The group made the best of the winter weather and went snowshoeing.

The next outing on March 12 will also involve snowshoeing. The group has equipment for you to borrow if needed. Sign up here!

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DSAW Webinar: Introduction To Disability Benefits

On February 25th, DSAW hosted a webinar for participants to learn about the resources, services, and programs available to families through Aging and Disability Resource Centers.

Staff from the Disability Services Division of Milwaukee County shared information about benefits and the services they provide for children and adults.

Access Recording Here

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Virtual Support Parent Training

On February 25th, DSAW hosted another session of Support Parent Training with Parent to Parent Wisconsin. The training was conducted virtually and included both Parent’s First Call Training and Prenatal Training. We are so grateful to all who attended! They will go on to make an important difference in expectant and new parents’ lives!

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DSAW Connects During February

Read on to see what our virtual classes have been up to in February!

Creative Corner

DSAW Creative Corner has been making the coolest creations this month! Participants made some peacocks out of upcycled materials like household cardboard! Other projects this month included origami dogs, a Valentine’s Day craft, and baby Yodas!

LifeSkills & Laughter

This class discussed Valentine's Day and answered questions like “what doe love mean,” “what do we love,” and “how do we show love.” The class also made cards for the special people in their lives.

Travel the Globe

This class spent February traveling through part of the US! So far the class has virtually visited Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Maine, Washington DC, Boston, Orlando, and now Texas! After a handful more US states the class will leave the country for some exploration abroad!

Exploring Food

This class is learning how to be prepared when going grocery shopping! The class brainstormed all the different ways to make a grocery list before creating one that included everyone's favorite things to eat. They figured out where the items would be in the store and discussed important things to think about before going grocery shopping.

Here is what they came up with: 1. Check your fridge and pantry to see what you have first. 2. Use what you have to make meals before buying more. 3. Only buy what's on your list. 4. Try to stick with healthy foods. 5. Find the cheaper option as much as you can.

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DSAW Free Programs

Tiny Tots

DSAW Tiny Tots meets once a week on Tuesday mornings for songs and signs! This semester, each class focuses on a different color and utilizes videos, songs, and stories. At the end of the class, participants learn a new sign related to their lesson.

Stream Team

This group has been really interested in playing Kahoots this month! The class has used the online trivia game to play “World You Rather,” answer poll questions, and play classic trivia. The group enjoys learning more about each other and strengthening their friendships.

Sleep Apnea & Down Syndrome

Camilla Matthews, MD presented on Sleep Apnea and Down syndrome on January 18th during a webinar hosted by the Madison Area Down Syndrome Society. We are summarizing her presentation here. Please access the recording of her webinar for further information.

What affects optimal sleep?

• Macro sleep environment: temperature in the bedroom, the noise and light level, and the level of safety

• Micro sleep environment: the texture of bedsheets and the position the child sleeps in

• Sleep practices: schedules around feeding time and napping

• Socio-cultural context: parenting practices and values

• Socio-emotional context: attachment factors in the family and child's temperament, maternal mental health/stress

• Developmental context: what stage of development the child is in and the child's age

• Health issues: medication and nutrition

Why might my child experience daytime sleepiness?

• Low sleep quantity

• Fragmented sleep quality

  • Covers conditions like sleep apnea and restless legs

• Primary Sleep Disorders of Excessive Sleepiness

  • Narcolepsy

  • These conditions can co-occur with sleep apnea

• Circadian Rhythm Disorders

  • We all have a preference for getting up earlier or going to bed later

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is defined as "stopping breathing when sleeping." For adults with sleep apnea, the stopped breathing lasts for more than 10 seconds. For children, the disruption lasts for more than two respiratory cycles. Both adults and children will stop and resume breathing throughout the night.

Are there different kinds of sleep apnea?

Yes. Obstructive Sleep Apnea, "Central" Sleep Apnea, and Hypopnea.

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea is breathing blocked by an "obstruction" of the upper airway while chest and abdominal muscles keep attempting to breathe.

  • shallow breathing, snoring with big gasps

• "Central" Sleep Apnea

  • breathing takes a pause, the brain "skips a beat"

• Hypopnea

  • reduction in breathing of about 50%, shallow breath, due to a partially obstructed airway

  • small change in oxygen level

  • shallow breath

Why are children with DS at higher risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

• Smaller mid-face: typically people with Down syndrome have a smaller upper jaw, and/or nose. A smaller jaw makes the tongue seem larger and this can cause an obstruction.

• Decreased pharyngeal muscle tone: pharyngeal muscles are the muscles that support breathing and those muscles can be weaker in people with DS.

Why is sleep apnea a concern?

Children with sleep apnea have been known to have decreased IQ scores and school performance, hyperactivity, and cognitive defects. Sleep apnea can lead to hypertension although it is not common in children.

Specific effects of sleep apnea in children with DS:

• verbal IQ scores

• impaired executive function

  • cognitive flexibility

• depression

  • in adolescents

  • could be associated with other behavioral issues

How common is sleep apnea in children with Down syndrome?

Very common. 60-100% of children with DS have sleep apnea.

Symptoms of sleep apnea:

• Snoring/heavy breathing

  • 54% of children with DS with no reported symptoms demonstrated sleep apnea on a sleep study (Schott, 2006)

• Sleep disruption

  • restless sleep

  • daytime sleepiness

  • lots of napping during the day

• Irritability

• Poor attention

• Poor concentration

• Sleep positions

  • Sleeping sitting up and folded forward

  • Sleeping with the neck hyperextended/ off the bed

How do you evaluate for sleep apnea?

Evaluations are usually done before the age of 4 but can be done anytime. Meeting with a specialist before testing will help determine if your child can tolerate a sleep study. During a sleep study, you stay overnight at a sleep center. Dr. Matthews recommends looking for one that routinely deals with children. As a parent or caregiver, you will stay overnight as well.

• monitor oxygen level, carbon dioxide level

• videotaping, EEG (brain waves), position, breathing effort

• measure airflow

Potential for "At-Home" testing

• Watch Pat

More info available at: www.uwhealth.org/wisconsinsleep

How do you treat sleep apnea?

• Surgery

  • Adenotonsillectomy: removal of tonsils and adenoids

  • Lingual tonsillectomy: removal of lingual tonsils

  • Other: evaluation by ENT, craniofacial surgeon, or pulmonologists

• Medications

  • GERD/ Heart Burn/ Trouble Swallowing

  • Allergic Rhinitis

  • Asthma

• Weight Loss

• CPAP: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

Main Takeaways:

1. Sleep apnea is very common in infants, children, and teens with Down syndrome.

2. Sleep apnea affects the heart, lungs, and brain of people which affects IQ, mood, and attention.

3. Many factors affect sleep apnea so there are many treatment options.

4. Talk to your child's doctor about your concerns and how to get tested/treated.

Access full webinar recording here.

Looking Back on January 2021

DSAW continues to rise above in 2021 by planning programming that fulfills the CDC’s COVID-19 safety guidelines and our clients’ needs! Our statewide virtual programming had tons of exciting new content during January. Participants attended the first round of Pop-Up programs. Virtual family fun nights continued with MADSS Bingo and a DSAW Karaoke night. DSAW- Southeastern WI even fit in a socially-distant sledding day!

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Winter Fun

DSAW- Southeastern WI Family Sledding Day

DSAW- Southeastern WI planned a family sledding day at Sunburst Winter Sports Park for local families! This was a great opportunity for families who have children or loved ones with disabilities to meet up outside in a safe, socially-distant way. Families enjoyed tubing down the hill at Sunburst and socializing with each other.

DSAW- Southeastern WI looks forward to planning more in-person events as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and community organizations safely re-open.

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Virtual Family Night

DSAW families and self advocates across the state are loving virtual family nights. On the third Thursday of the month, DSAW hosts an evening of family fun! This month participants enjoyed a Karaoke Night! All kinds of music was featured and every participant got their chance to shine by singing and dancing along to their favorite tunes.

Join us next month for our Virtual Valentine’s Party!

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NEW DSAW Pop- Up Classes

Pop-Up Classes are one of DSAW’s newest program offerings! The first Pop-Up class of the spring 2021 semester was lucky to hear from Ryan Raisbeck, a firefighter from Madison, WI!

Raisbeck talked about what a day in the life of a firefighter is like and day to day safety skills like “stop, drop, roll.” The class discussed exit drills and how to safely leave a home if there is a fire! We are so thankful to Ryan for taking the time to talk about these important topics with our class!

If you’d like to sign up for Pop Up classes, 30 additional units will be added to your plan. These are fun classes and events that will “pop up” during January- June. You can pick and choose which ones you’d like to attend! DSAW Instructors will turn to YOU for class ideas and actives! Questions about Pop Up Classes? Contact Mary, Adult Services Manager.

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DSAW Virtual Leaders Retreat

DSAW Board members from all 7 chapters met up via Zoom to discuss the past, present, and future of all the DSAW chapters! While this virtual retreat looked very different from our usual in-person weekend, we were happy to have an opportunity to come together and reflect on the past year. There was also an opportunity to meet new board members who joined in 2020 and share ideas to help make 2021 a safe and productive year of events, education, and programming for DSAW families all over Wisconsin! Thanks to all who attended!

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DSAW Connects During January

DSAW Connects Statewide Programming began the spring semester on January 4th. Read on to see what our virtual classes have been up to!

Criss Cross Training with Pizazz

A new fitness program for the spring semester! Participants are working on different breathing techniques, strength training, and basic step routines. One of the awesome participants, Rachel, has been co-leading the end of class and teaching a dance routine to "Born this Way."

Exploring Music & Movies

An exciting guest speaker visited participants in DSAW Connects: Exploring Music & Movies! We spoke to American Actor Ric Reitz and his experience with films and script writing!!

Crafts & Conversation

Participants are having a "crabtastic" time in DSAW Connects: Creative Corner! Participants followed along at home while they learned how to make a crab out of craft sticks.

DSAW Free Spring Programs

Stream Team

Stream Team is loving their new combined class as it gives them the opportunity to meet new friends! Group leaders Abigail and Rachel have focused on asking the group what activities they’d like to see during this semester. Participants requested more Kahoots, “Would You Rather,” and other fun, social games.

DSAW Zoom Zumba

Zoom Zumba or ZOOMba is a fun and free fitness program hosted by DSAW and MADSS. This class features fun upbeat music, adaptive moves, and is guided by a certified Zumba instructor. Participants have enjoyed requesting songs and getting their parents and siblings to join in the fun. You can still sign-up-this class is always accepting new participants.

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Looking Back on December 2020

DSAW finished 2020 strong! Several DSAW Chapters hosted socially-distant holiday events. DSAW and MADSS hosted virtual family nights for self advocates and families across the state and our regular DSAW Connects Programming wrapped up on December 18.

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Holiday Events Around Wisconsin

Several DSAW Chapters celebrated the season in socially-distant ways! We are so grateful that we had the opportunity to spread holiday cheer this year even if our events looked different due to the pandemic. Thank you to all board members, volunteers, and families for making these events happen during challenging times.

DSAW- Southeastern WI Holiday Drive- Thru

On Saturday, December 12, DSAW opened its doors for a socially-distant holiday drive-thru! Local families drove up to the doors at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and received special goodie bags from DSAW. Santa and his elf also attended so kids and self-advocates could chat with them from their cars. It was so nice to see friends and families we haven’t seen since summer!

DSAW- Sheboygan Holiday Movie Night At Home

DSAW- Sheboygan wanted their local families to enjoy a holiday movie night from the comfort of their homes! Board members sent virtual gift cards to families so they could rent a holiday movie and enjoy a night in with their loved ones.

DSAW-Central WI Holiday Gift Pick Up

DSAW- Central WI invited local families to sign up for their Holiday Gift Pick Up! On December 12th, registered families pulled up to Wausau West High School and received gift bags, hot chocolate, and holiday cheer from the DSAW- Central Board members.

DSAW- La Crosse Rotary Lights Meet Up

DSAW- La Crosse members met up at the Rotary Lights Show for a night of socially-distant, holiday fun! Santa greeted participants in the parking lot and the cars caravanned through the giant light displays.

DSAW- Chippewa Valley Holiday Curbside Pick Up

At the start of the month, DSAW- Chippewa Valley put on a gift giving program called “Holiday Curbside Pick Up,” for local families who have children and loved ones with Down syndrome or related disabilities. Children and young siblings requested gifts in advance and then picked them up “drive-thru style” at Student Transit in Eau Claire.

DSAW- Green Bay Santa’s Rock N’ Lights

DSAW- Green Bay hosted a socially-distant meet up at a local light show called “Santa’s Rock N Lights.” DSAW families were gifted tickets and were able to all enjoy the light show on the same night.

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DSAW Fall Programming Wrap Up

DSAW Connects Statewide Programming Fall Semester

DSAW Connects Statewide Programming wrapped up its fall session on December 18th! Read below to see how a few virtual classes went out with a bang!

Let’s Get Connected

Let’s Get Connected evening session enjoyed a day of karaoke fun to celebrate the last class! Participants sang along to all kinds of music from old school country to Christmas tunes.

Back to Work

Over the semester, this class has focused on being flexible. They concluded class with a discussion about rock brain vs flexible brain. Participants reviewed steps on how to stay flexible when faced with a challenge and completed a picture activity where they drew what they were expecting on one half of the paper, pretended to erase it and drew the new change on the other half.

Media Madness

Media Madness kept their last class strictly fun! Participants ended the semester dressed in festive clothing and played a special round of Christmas “Name that Tune.”

Life Skills & Laughter

Life Skills and Laughter celebrated the season with a virtual holiday party. The last class included festive holiday clothing, Christmas conversation, and lots of fun holiday games.

DSAW Free Fall Programs

Stream Team

Our close-knit group of Stream Team participants ended the semester with a virtual holiday party! We had a discussion about our favorite holiday movies and answered holiday-themed “Would You Rather” questions.

Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group

DSAW Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group is a totally non-judgmental support group for women who have recently received a DS diagnosis or gave birth to a child with Down syndrome. Group members have grown close over the last few months and have had many instances of women returning to the group after giving birth just to enjoy their community. The group is always accepting new members and hopes to grow in 2021.

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7 Days of DSAW: Holiday Pop Up Classes

Grateful & Thankful

“7 Days of DSAW” Holiday Pop Up Classes kicked off on December 21! The first class was called “Grateful & Thankful.” Participants watched a video called “25 Reasons to be Grateful” and then shared their own reasons with the group. Participants also discussed why it is important to spend time acknowledging and being thankful for people or things. The class was ended with a teamwork emoji holiday song guessing game.

“7 Days of DSAW” runs until December 31st. Classes are daily from 11-12 PM.

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Monthly Statewide Virtual Family Nights

DSAW December Disney Trivia Night

DSAW is hosting monthly virtual family events throughout fall and winter! This month, we got together for December Disney Trivia!

This virtual family night was very well attended and so much fun! 28 families and self-advocates logged on to the Zoom call to answer questions related to Disney movies.

Next month’s family night will be a virtual Karaoke Night on January 21st!

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See You Next Year: DSAW Connects Statewide Programming Winter/ Spring 2021

DSAW’s new semester of DSAW Connects, new pop up classes, and small group options all start on January 4th 2021! DSAW Connects: Statewide Winter/ Spring 2021 Programs provide multiple types of curriculum and activities for individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities across Wisconsin. The winter/spring 2021 programming runs for 6 months, January 4th through June 4th. Courses are geared for ages 12 and up, although individuals of all ages are welcome to try the classes.

Meet the DSAW Connects Teachers

DSAW Connects is a huge success and it’s thanks to DSAW’s brilliant Family Services staff and teachers. Please watch the video below to get to know the incredible instructors you see on your Zoom screen every week!

DSAW Siblings John & Lia

Every year, you make it possible for DSAW to serve 5,500 people with Down syndrome, related disabilities, and their families across Wisconsin through the provision of services, education, resources, and support. Two of those people are siblings John and Lia.

John on an adventure with Mariah

Over the last several years, DSAW has helped John and Lia to rise above expectations and to live fulfilling lives! DSAW job coaches have helped John hold temporary work experiences at Culver's and Pizza Ranch. Mariah, John's respite provider and job coach, has been working with him for over a year and has seen the impact DSAW has had in his life. She noticed that "Especially over quarantine, John was stuck in the house and wouldn't want to do very much but sit around. Now, [she] works with him 2 times a week, and he is so happy when he sees [her] that he runs out the door!" Mariah is thankful that she plays a role in helping John and Lia achieve their goals, and it doesn't hurt that they are the most giggly clients she has ever had! :)

Lia also benefits from DSAW's one-on-one services and is working to accomplish her goals in the community. She even got to practice her social and life skills last summer at DSAW's Summer Day Camp for teens!

DSAW staff works with individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities in their jobs, in their homes, and in their communities. We work with all ages on skills ranging from daily living skills, job training, goal setting, and so much more. Click here to learn more about how DSAW can help your loved ones.

When you make a year-end gift to DSAW, you fund a wide range of life-changing services that support thousands of people like John and Lia across Wisconsin.

We couldn't do this without you! Let's help our friends rise above expectations and the current circumstances to live amazing lives!!

Jayvion's New Job

When you donate to the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, you fund life-changing programs and services that help our friends and families rise above their circumstances. You've already heard about DSAW Connects, the power of DSAW's community, and our Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group. Did you know that DSAW also provides employment services for individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities?

In July 2020, DSAW formed a partnership with Engauge Workforce Solutions. Engauge is a placement agency for manufacturing, and they also have a training facility in Menomonee Falls designed to teach people basic manufacturing skills, forklift training, assembly, and welding. In addition to training, they do outsourcing by bringing in assembly work. Wendy Schmidt, DSAW's Vocational Services and Business Development Manager, finds that this outsourcing is "a great way for individuals with diverse abilities to try out a job in manufacturing in a smaller, more supported environment." If clients do well and want to continue to work in manufacturing, Engauge can place them into one of their partner businesses as a temp for 90 days, after which they can be hired by the business.

This service was made possible through support from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Wendy recognizes the impact of this partnership by saying, "It's not often you find a company that is willing to open up their doors to multiple individuals at one time, train them, and help them grow." Cassandra Skindzelewski of Enguage shares that "At Enguage, we believe meaningful work can change lives...We value the unique perspectives different populations bring, and we are passionate about helping our clients to successfully embrace workforce diversity."

Jayvion began working at Engauge a few months ago. He really enjoys working with the pieces and seeing what goes in to each product. He loves working with different people and developing new job skills. He says he never thought he would have worked in manufacturing, but now that he is, he can't see himself switching careers!

Cassie knows that "By working with DSAW, we have been able to collaborate and prove how individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities are more than capable of succeeding in manufacturing." DSAW's partnership with Engauge helps people to rise above the difficulties of securing meaningful employment, and it helps them make a fair wage, too!

Please consider DSAW in your year-end giving. You have the power to help people like Jayvion find jobs. By donating today, you can provide someone with Down syndrome in Wisconsin a job that they enjoy.

Meet Gretchen and Kristine

Today is Giving Tuesday! After a long few days of buying and spending, today we focus on giving back to our communities. To show you the power of your gift, we'd like to tell you about our new Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group.

Last year, DSAW mom Gretchen Dodgion (pictured in cover photo) came to us with the idea of starting a Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group for women who have received a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis. After the birth of her daughter Madeleine, Gretchen realized that she "made it through one of the most difficult challenges in [her] life to receive the most beautiful and special gift imaginable." She wanted to share this message with other women and help them "make it through the challenge of the fear and uncertainty that can often accompany a prenatal diagnosis." This year, her idea blossomed into a virtual, statewide network of supportive friends!

Kristine and her new daughter Aila

Kristine was one of the first women to join the new group. Initially, she was "uncertain about participating in the group because the news about [her] child was so new, the grief and anger were painfully fresh, and [she] felt so alone. [She] wanted to build a network to hear that things were going to be okay and that [she] could have the strength to welcome the child, because [she] couldn't see a way out of the pain that [she] was in."

Since joining the Prenatal Diagnosis Group, Kristine has found "such hope and encouragement in speaking with women who are able to see the gifts in the unexpected." She's developed friendships that she hopes will be lifelong, and she has welcomed her daughter Aila into the world. She continues to join the expectant parents and share her journey with others.

Gretchen has loved leading the group with women like Kristine, and she is thankful that at DSAW's Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group, "friendships have been formed, tears have been shed, hearts have been opened, spirits have been lifted, and hope has been reborn."

You can give messages of hope and support to expectant moms like Kristine by making a gift to DSAW today. When you donate to DSAW, you help fund programs like our Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group that make a significant impact in people's lives.

Today's the day. Will you donate to DSAW in honor of Giving Tuesday?

The Power of DSAW's Community

The Meier family hosted a bowling tournament fundraiser for DSAW

Can you take a few minutes to read about the incredible, creative ways that our DSAW community has supported us during this challenging year? Because of YOU, we have been able to rise above the uncertainty of this year and come out stronger than ever.

In early spring, we weren't at all sure what this year would bring. As the months went on and we realized that we wouldn't be returning to in-person programs for awhile, we started to reimagine our fundraising events. How could we make it through this year without any Awareness Walks?

We quickly realized that YOU would help us make it through this year. We are so humbled by and grateful for the amazing ways our families and friends have supported DSAW.

We want to share just some of the ways that the DSAW community has stepped up to help sustain DSAW in 2020:

• Peyton Larson of Racine hosted a lemonade stand fundraiser for her birthday.

• The Meier family of Southeastern WI had a Down Syndrome Awareness tournament fundraiser at their bowling alley, Country Lanes.

• Team Phoenyx of Sheboygan had a bake sale to benefit their Walk team.

• Murackulous Photography hosted a photo session fundraiser.

• VIVA MAYHEM of Southeastern WI hosted a huge lemonade stand, a golf outing, a sweatshirt fundraiser, and more to raise the MOST money of any DSAW Awareness Walk team in history!!

• Robert and Cassandra Maas of Sheboygan honored DSAW at their wedding! Every time someone made a donation to DSAW, the newlyweds would kiss.

• Kitty Storey partnered with Cranky's donut shop in Wauwatosa to offer a Down Syndrome Awareness donut during the month of October - all proceeds went to DSAW.

• Andrea Finney of La Crosse raised money for her local Walk by hosting a Pampered Chef fundraiser on Facebook.

• The Hau family in Sheboygan had a garage sale and donated the profits to DSAW.

Robert & Cassandra Maas raised money for DSAW at their wedding!

These are just SOME examples of the power of DSAW's community. We truly are a grassroots organization, and we raise money dollar by dollar. All of your efforts have made a huge impact and will set us up for success in the year to come!

You can join these amazing DSAW supporters by making a gift to DSAW on Giving Tuesday (tomorrow!!). Share a post on your social media. Forward this email to a family member. Get your networks involved tomorrow - we need the power of this wonderful community!

Will you consider donating to DSAW tomorrow? Let's celebrate Giving Tuesday with as much excitement as we celebrate Cyber Monday.

Looking Back on November 2020

DSAW kept busy during the month! Our Southeastern WI chapter hosted a socially-distant family night at Winter Wonders. Families gathered on Zoom to watch a Kohl’s Wild Theater Production. DSAW Connects classes and free programs continued as usual and a new sponsor generously offered to support the winter/spring 2021 semester of DSAW Connects!

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Country Lanes Bowling 9-Pin Fundraiser

DSAW wants to give a huge thank you to the Meier family and Country Lanes Bowling Alley!

New owners of Country Lanes Bowling Alley, Kevin and Lee Ann Meier, held a 9-pin fundraising tournament on October 3rd in honor of their daughter Leilani (6) who has Down syndrome. They had an outpouring of love and support from their community and customers and raised $2,170 to donate to DSAW! Kevin and Lee Ann love being a part of the DSAW community and were very excited for Leilani to be able to contribute to helping others! They will be hosting this tournament every year! We can't wait for the next one.

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DSAW Family Meet Up: Winter Wonders

DSAW- Southeastern WI hosted a socially-distant family night on November 20th! We were so excited to be able to provide Winter Wonders holiday light show tickets for 58 local families! Thank you to everyone who signed up for this event, and we are looking forward to the DSAW Holiday Drive-Thru on December 12!

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Monthly Statewide Virtual Family Nights

“Welcome to the Zoo” Kohl’s Wild Theater Remote Showing

DSAW is hosting monthly virtual family events throughout fall and winter! November’s Virtual Family Event was a remote showing of the Kohl’s Wild Theater Production, “Welcome to the Zoo!”

Families and self-advocates enjoyed the lively and interactive show and followed it up with some discussion questions from the Milwaukee Conservation Society.

Our next month’s Virtual Family Event is December Disney Trivia Night on December 17th. This is a FREE trivia night for DSAW and MADSS families. Sign up today!

Madison Area Down Syndrome Society Bingo Night

MADSS hosted a virtual Bingo Night for families and self-advocates on November 18th. MADSS utilized a virtual platform to generate Bingo cards for all players. Players went above and beyond standard Bingo rules and tried getting “bingos” in unique patterns like outside boarder, four corners, and fun holiday shapes!

DSAW- Fox Cities Trivia Night

The Fox Cities and Green Bay chapters had their own trivia night early this month! DSAW- Fx Cities staff hosted a family trivia night. Questions were general knowledge and the group had lots of fun bonding with friends in their area.

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DSAW Connects: Fall Programming Wrap Up

DSAW Connects Fall Classes run until December 18th! Read below for updates on what a few classes have gotten up to in November!

Navigating Our World

On Veteran’s Day, the Navigating Our World class had the privilege of talking to a guest speaker who was in the military! Joshua Vogt was a Marine in the United States Marine Corps. He explained the different branches of the United States Military and gave the class insight into his specific roles and duties during his service. The class asked some awesome questions like: "How did you get your food while in the military?" "How hot was it in Saudi Arabia?" "Did you ever swim while you were in the desert?" and "Did you play pranks on other Marines you served with?" Thank you, Joshua for spending time with our class!

Sweatin’ In the Afternoon

Sweatin’ in the Afternoon combines fun and fitness! This hard-working group has been focusing on different types of breathing to support their workouts, including square breathing. They’ve also covered topics like crossing the midline and the meaning of “namaste.” One participant has stepped up and started teaching a dance routine to the class for some cardio. Every class she teaches a little more of the routine and the participants follow along and jam out to “Born this Way” by Lady Gaga!

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Free Fall Programs

DSAW is thrilled to be able to offer FREE, virtual programming during the fall/winter. The current programming runs through December 18th. Read below for some class updates!

Crafts & Conversation

Crafts & Conversation is a "free" craft time that allows for conversation while you work! The group completed several projects in the fall including scrapbooking pages, occasion cards, and painting projects. For the holidays, the group started two craft projects! The first is decorating a turkey cardboard cutout with felt stickers and fall colored tissue paper. The second is a Thanksgiving weave placemat with felt stickers. Earlier this month the group started creating holiday greeting cards and they will finish those up during their last session in December!

Stream Team

DSAW Stream Team and Tween Stream Team merged to create one big Stream Team! One of our favorite fall activities was utilizing Kahoot technology to learn more about the class and ourselves by answering poll questions!

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DSAW Winter Programming

DSAW has a new semester of DSAW Connects coming up along with new pop up classes and small group options!

Thank you, Allcox & Associates!

DSAW is so grateful to our friends at Allcox & Associates for supporting this semester of DSAW Connects Statewide Programming! Thank you for believing in our friends with Down syndrome and related disabilities and helping us enhance lives through virtual educational programs.

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Re-enroll in your favorite DSAW Connects classes and check out the new offerings for the winter season!

DSAW Connects: Statewide Winter/ Spring 2021 Programs provide multiple types of curriculum and activities for individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities across Wisconsin. The winter/spring 2021 programming runs for 6 months, January 4th through June 4th. Courses are geared for ages 12 and up, although individuals of all ages are welcome to try the classes.

Although we are not able to be hand-in-hand this year, our classes will still be hands-on! Create your own day by picking and choosing which classes work for your family. This year’s goal is the same as always! Our committed and caring staff want to provide YOU with a positive learning experience by facilitating interactive and structured days full of fun activities and educational exercises. All you need is an internet connection to get in on the fun!

Learn More About DSAW Connects

Like all things 2020, Thanksgiving is going to look a bit different this year. Some of us won't see our families or friends. Some of us may be breaking years-long traditions. But what better time than now to reflect on all of the things for which we ARE grateful?

DSAW’s Let’s Get Connected virtual course

Here at DSAW, we are thankful for our DSAW Connects virtual education series. Over 8 months ago, we had big (in-person) plans for 2020. But like everyone else, we had to adapt and rise above the circumstances. We transitioned many of our programs and services into a virtual format, and since March, DSAW Connects has been so successful that we plan to continue our virtual programming even after the pandemic has passed!

By the end of this year, DSAW staff will have provided 2,000+ hours of virtual services!! In 2020, we've reached more people across Wisconsin with our programs than EVER before. We held 28 different classes for over 275 participants, averaging 10 classes per day. Wow!! Thank you all for making this possible. If you would like to get involved with DSAW Connects in 2021, click here.

DSAW's Program Manager Lilly notes that our virtual education series "is a powerful tool that we have to help reduce any regression that this pandemic could ultimately cause, and, in fact, it has been instrumental in creating new learning opportunities for my clients and has helped to cultivate improvements in learning, interacting, and in overall well-being."

Maddy participates in a Halloween party through DSAW Connects

Maddy's mom Marita agrees with Lilly's observations: "Maddy is transitioning from a child to a tween and she is relatively shy with her peers. With the onset of COVID-19 and all the shutdowns, I was very concerned that this would become a bigger issue. We signed Maddy up for DSAW Connects and she has absolutely blossomed over the last few months! She went from not speaking in any of the classes to now freely sharing things about her life and joining her peers in all the fun these classes offer! She has made so many new friends throughout Wisconsin!"

When you support DSAW on Giving Tuesday, you support the well-being of those 275 people like Maddy who are isolated at home and craving social interaction. You help our friends rise above the current circumstances and work on achieving their dreams.

Will you consider making a gift to DSAW next Tuesday? You can even designate your donation toward a specific chapter!

Looking Back on October 2020

Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month!

October was Down Syndrome Awareness Month! DSAW celebrated our friends online with custom FB banners and profile pic frames. We also shared the words of people with DS and facts about DS on our Instagram. The cherry on top—Cranky Al’s in Wauwatosa, WI sold a DS Awareness donut that benefitted DSAW all month long!

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Cranky Al’s “Kitty Special” Donut for Down Syndrome Awareness Month

The "Kitty" donut was created by DSAW-Southeastern member, Kitty, with the help of friends at Cranky Al’s! All October long, Cranky Al’s made and sold a blue and yellow “milk & honey” donut, and the profits benefitted DSAW! We are so grateful to Cranky Al’s for choosing DSAW for this partnership. We also thank Kitty for capturing the whole story on her YouTube channel, “Cooking With Kitty.” Watch her video below!

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Celebrating a SWEET Friendship: Thank you Cardinal Capital Management and Professional Construction, Inc.!

The Cranky Al’s Kitty donut made the perfect thank you gift for two incredible sponsors of the 2020 Down Syndrome Awareness Walk: Cardinal Capital Management and Professional Construction, Inc. These companies really showed up for DSAW this year and we are so appreciative of their support during these uncertain and challenging times. Thank you for your generosity and dedication to our mission every year- we could not do what we do without YOU!

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Uniquely Created Designs: Supporting DSAW during DS Awareness Month and Beyond!

Uniquely Created Designs is owned by Teri Larsen, a mother to a daughter who has Down syndrome. Her online store sells adorable DS awareness merchandise. From now until 2021, a portion of sales on their site will benefit the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin! Get your DS Awareness Month gear, holiday gifts, or prepare for WDSD 2021! Thank you so much, Uniquely Created Designs!

Shop Here

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Fall Family Fun

Our organization is continually finding new ways to connect our community during the pandemic. DSAW- Southeastern and MADSS hosted socially distant family outings to pumpkin patches and found safe and spooky ways to celebrate Halloween!

DSAW- Southeastern Fall Family Outing at Schuett Farms

DSAW- Southeastern hosted a socially-distant family day at Schuett Farms! To keep things a little more distant, families and self-advocates could show up to the farm at their leisure. When they arrived, they received a goodie bucket full of Halloween treats and tickets for pumpkin picking and a turn in the corn maze. Even though the day was a little chilly, DSAW families made the best of it and enjoyed their time on the farm!

A big thank you to Schuett Farms for hosting us! We could not have had this meet up without your beautiful farm and generosity! Thank you for helping us have a wonderful, fall family day!

This event was well-attended and showed us how much our families miss each other! DSAW is working hard to find safe ways for our community to connect during the pandemic.

Check out the next in-person family event: DSAW Winter Wonders Meet Up!

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Madison Area Down Syndrome Society Family Farm Day

MADSS members enjoyed a gorgeous fall day with their families at Schuster’s Farm. To keep this event extra safe and distanced, MADSS purchased tickets for families in advanced, and people could pick a time that worked for them to go. While we missed meeting up all on the same day, families still enjoyed the apple cannon, picking pumpkins, and giant wooden horse! Thank you to Schuster’s Farm for hosting our families throughout the last few weeks and for our families for posting such awesome pics on Facebook.

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Statewide DSAW Trivia Night

DSAW is hosting monthly virtual family events throughout fall and winter! We kicked them off with Statewide DSAW Trivia Night on October 22! Families and self advocates from across the state participated in Trivia Night virtually!

November’s Virtual Family Event is a remote showing of the Kohl’s Wild Theater Production, “Welcome to the Zoo!” Sign up ASAP to reserve your spot.

More info on Virtual Family Events is coming soon!

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Statewide Support Parent Training

The Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW) partnered with Parent to Parent of Wisconsin (P2P) to train a new group support parents! This group went through a lengthly virtual training that prepared them to give support to another parent of a child with Down syndrome. These parents will be matched with new and expectant parents who are looking for resources and support!

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DSAW Connects: Fall Programming

On September 1, DSAW launched the fall section of DSAW Connects which runs until December 18th! Read below for updates on what a few classes have gotten up to in October!

Body Blast

Body Blast is a modified and inclusive fitness class for all abilities! They make sure that staying fit is FUN! This month, the class practiced a yoga routine that followed along the plot of the movie Trolls.

Navigating Our World

Navigating Our World is a class that focuses on current events and managing the uncertainty of this year. This month, the class had a creative outlet day. The photo shows the progress that participants have made on their creative projects that identify things that are "in or out of their control.”

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Free Fraternal Fall Programs

DSAW is thrilled to be able to offer FREE, virtual programming during the fall/winter. The current programming runs through December 18th. Read below for some class updates!

Crafts & Conversation

One of the free fraternal programs DSAW is offering this fall is Crafts & Conversation. This is a class that encourages self-expression by exploring creative craft projects, such as basic scrapbooking and making greeting cards. Instructors focus on creating art with recycled materials (pictured) like bottle caps and cardboard.

Stream Team

DSAW Stream Team is a popular program for self advocates 18+! Some fall highlights include our Halloween Trivia Day, and spooky Halloween Party which featured festive music, videos, and of course costumes!

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13th Annual Self Determination Conference

Self Advocates from DSAW presenting

Keynote Speaker and DSAW Member, Erin

DSAW was excited to be one of the few organizations invited to the 13th Annual Self Determination Conference. One DSAW member, Erin, gave a keynote speech about mental health. Four self-advocates affiliated with DSAW, and our Program Manager Lily, presented at the 13th Annual Self Determination Conference put on by Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities, InControl Wisconsin, and People First Wisconsin.

Their session was called, "Virtual Learning: Let's Stay Connected and Healthy" and covered how to best utilize virtual resources during the pandemic and beyond. We couldn't be more proud of all of them for sharing their knowledge with such a wide audience!
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