Looking Back on December 2021

DSAW reflects on the last month of 2021! Our chapters hosted holiday fun for individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities and their loved ones. Central WI got their families moving with a physical activity scavenger hunt, Fox Cities celebrated their office remodel, La Crosse enjoyed a sensory-friendly light show, and there’s so much more! Read on for all the details!

Happy Holidays!

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Holiday Fun Across The State

Kris Kringles with Kitty

DSAW- La Crosse hosted a virtual cookie baking party for DSAW families across the state! A La Crosse area chef, Kitty, hosted the class and taught everyone how to follow a cookie recipe. Everyone had a blast! Thank you DSAW- La Crosse for hosting this fun and free event!

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Physical Activity Scavenger Hunt

DSAW- Central WI had a wonderful time teaming up with UW-Stevens Point to host a physical activity scavenger hunt! Children and adults with Down syndrome paired up with UWSP physical education students who guided them through the scavenger hunt. Participants were given a list of challenges like dancing, throwing a ball, completing an obstacle course, etc. and took a selfie when it was completed. Thank you to UWSP for hosting this event and partnering with us!

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DSAW- Southeastern Holiday Party at Noel Christmas Expo

DSAW- Southeastern hosted a holiday party for families at Noel Christmas Expo! Families got to see their friends and enjoy the enormous indoor light displays. There were holiday treats and of course gift bags! While we missed our usual holiday party at the office, this experience was very cool and magical!

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Neville Public Museum Christmas Exhibit

DSAW- Green Bay hosted families at the Neville Public Museum. There were many cool things to see, but the main attraction was the “Holiday Memories of Downtown Green Bay” exhibit. Families also had a chance to check out the Christmas Market too!

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Fox Cities Holiday Open House

DSAW- Fox Cities had an “office warming” for their newly renovated headquarters! Families were invited to an open house that included holiday-themed games, cookie decorating, and a visit from Santa!

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Sheboygan Holiday Bowling Party

DSAW-Sheboygan families celebrated the holidays at Odyssey Fun Center! Families enjoyed bowling and catching up with each other.

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All Abilities Night at the Rotary Lights

DSAW- La Crosse partnered with La Crosse Area Autism Foundation to host a night of sensory-friendly fun at the Rotary Lights for their families. It was all the magic and fun of the usual light display, but the music was a little softer and there were not any flashing lights. The night also included s’mores and a visit from Santa!

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Program Updates

Skills Training Academy

DSAW Skills Training Academy participants had the opportunity to learn about giving back to others in our community. They made blankets with a purpose for a non-profit called Project Linus. Project Linus helps provide security through handmade blankets for children in need. The Project Linus mission is to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”

The participants made 6 tie blankets that will be donated to the Project Linus organization! We are so proud of them!!

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Social Skills Group

This month, DSAW’s Social Skills Group continued building their Calming Tool Boxes. They spent time learning different strategies (or tools) to help keep their bodies and minds calm when they are stressed!

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Virtual Christmas Karaoke

DSAW and MADSS friends logged onto Zoom to celebrate the holiday season! They swapped cookie recipes, played Christmas games, and then shared their talents with some festive karaoke. Thank you to all who attended!

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Super Saturdays

Our Super Saturday group got together for a holiday party at the DSAW Office. The group enjoyed snacks and treats, crafts, and festive fun!

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Webinar: Exploring Assistive Technology

Kellie Bews, a Southeastern Wisconsin Solutions Consultant for Tobii Dynavox, presented on new Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC). She explained how ACC works, who might benefit from ACC, and then introduced the process of getting diagnosed and incorporating ACC into your loved one’s life.

Watch the recording here!

Read our blog summary!

"Communication for Now Communication for Life – Using Your Resources to Elevate AAC Success"

Kellie Bews , A Solutions Consultant for Tobii Dynavox presented on assistive technology and communication on December 13th during a DSAW webinar. We are summarizing the presentation here. Please access the recording of the webinar for further information.

The Need For Communication Devices

• 8 out of 1,000 people worldwide cannot use speech to communicate.

• 2-3 million people in the U.S. could benefit from speech generating devices.

• Only 5% of these people have a speech device

What is Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)?

• AAC is any device, system or method that improves a person’s ability to communicate effectively and participate in the world around them.

• Can be implemented any time, but usually earlier in the care process is better

A Communication System Should:

• Increase participation in all environments

• Support timely interaction

• Provide meaningful language to the recipient

• Support language and literacy development

• Encourage successful day-to-day, face-to- face, real-time interaction

• Be age and level appropriate

AAC Myths

• Choosing to use an AAC system is giving up - “the easy way out”

• AAC will hinder speech and language development

• AAC is an individual’s sole communication modality

• The focus of AAC use is the assessment of devices and focus on technology

How do I know if someone could benefit from AAC?

Full Communication Success Screen Here

• Does the individual have a diagnosis that puts him/her at risk for speech or language challenges? (ASD, CP, aphasia, ALS, etc.)

• Does the individual have less than 20 words/signs/ signals that can be understood by unfamiliar listeners?

• Does the individual have difficulty communicating his/her ideas (e.g., asking for a desired item, telling a story, expressing an idea)?

Goals of AAC

• Communicating successfully NOW

• System that will be used for long-term communication (this may change as individual progresses

• Development of language and speech production through AAC use

The Process

• An individual has been identified as a possible AAC candidate by the team

• Referral for AAC evaluation

• Outpatient speech language pathologist

• Speech Language Pathologists in your school district

• District Contact Person (larger districts)

• CESAs

• AAC Referral Forms - beneficial for outside evaluators, i.e., private therapy clinics, outpatient SLPs

What is SGD Evaluation?

• Answers the questions:

  • Why does this individual need a SGD?

  • How they are communicating in their natural environment?

  • Which features of an SGD are required to match their abilities and compensate for their areas of need?

Choosing a Communication System

• One size does not fit all

• Assessing Strengths/Weaknesses

  • cognition

  • language

  • motor

  • sensory

What Does Success Look Like?

• Increased attention to interactions

• Initiation of communication

• Use of more vocabulary

• Longer interactions

• Use of more tools or pages

• Enjoyment of interaction, and/or

• More independence in communication

Online Resources

• Trial Guides

• Lesson Plans

• Core Books

Resources, Resources and MORE Resources @ mytobiidynavox.com

WI Medicaid Recommendations

• 4-week trial across ALL communication environments – school, home and community

• Must demonstrate intent to communicate with device

• Focus on functional communication and conversation – “beyond requesting”

• Establish recommended equipment to be “least costly alternative”

• Demonstrated family advocacy

WI Medicaid FUNDING PACKET CHECKLIST

• Evaluation Report

• WI PA-DMEA

• Copy of current IEP

• Client Information Form

• Release of Benefits and Assignment

• Insurance card copies

• Supporting letters of advocacy

• Physician Rx

• Face-to-face physician visit notes (must state need for SGD and performed within 6 months of prescription)

Time and Effort for Success!

DSAW's Adult Services

Every year, you provide a lifetime of support to 5,500 people with Down syndrome, other diverse abilities, and their families across Wisconsin through the provision of DSAW's programs and services. Some of those people are Norman, Michelle, and DJ.

Norman has been working with his Daily Living Skills Specialist Mary since March of 2021. He works one-on-one to secure and increase his overall safety and independence when out in the community while maintaining proper boundaries. Mary works with Norman as he volunteers at St. Matthew's Church as a pew tender. He stocks all cards, note pads, and envelopes in the pews. He is very precise and assembly projects are a strength of his.

Mary says, "Norman is a joy to be around! He is very friendly and says hi to everyone he sees. Norman loves to celebrate holidays and his birthday. In 2022 he will turn 60 so we will be celebrating all month long!!

DSAW's staff also works with Michelle and DJ by facilitating dates! Their Client Services Coach Becki helps to facilitate dates as they go to restaurants, make meals together, play games, watch movies, shop for the holidays, and more! On their dates, Michelle and DJ discuss future goals, plan meals, and talk about how to support each other.

In addition, Michelle works independently with Becki on daily living skills like healthy eating, exercise, chores, using money, and cooking. DJ is part of a small group to improve social skills and independence.

Norman, Michelle, and DJ all receive different types of support from DSAW. Our Adult Services department provides customized 1:1 services, small groups, and virtual & in-person group-based instruction and tutoring.

When you make a year-end gift to DSAW, you fund a wide range of life-changing services that support thousands of people across Wisconsin. Will you donate today?

Tim's Full Life

When you donate to the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, you fund life-changing programs and services for people with Down syndrome and related disabilities of all ages across Wisconsin. You provide a lifetime of support. You've heard about our Parent's First Call program, our Children's Services, and our new Tween Club in the Chippewa Valley, all available for people under age 18. DSAW also has the great joy of serving adults with disabilities. Tim is one of the adults who is exceeding expectations because of your support.

Tim is 28 years old. He has been working in the Horticulture Department at the Milwaukee County Zoo for nearly 5 years. He also works at MOD Pizza. Tim lives in his own apartment and recently invited his friends over for a Halloween party (pictured). He loves animals, gardening, playing basketball, and decorating his apartment for the holidays.

Tim is also a participant in DSAW's Person Centered Planning process. This approach helps individuals with disabilities to create a support team, identify their hopes and dreams, and make those dreams a reality. Certified coaches lead the participant and their chosen support team through a futures planning process, developed by the Center for Independent Futures, in which they investigate their dreams, obstacles, and goals, and then create an action plan. Now that Tim's team has created a plan, DSAW's Program Manager Lilly works with Tim weekly to accomplish his goals. They utilize the My Full Life online curriculum to track skill progress.

Some of Tim's goals include owning a dog, traveling to Graceland in Memphis, attending live music concerts, and moving into a bigger apartment. Lilly and Tim work on specific skills like time management, communication, and independent living to help him live a full life. Tim's mom Jackie said that the Person Centered Planning process "was a very helpful experience," that his relationships have grown stronger, and that DSAW "reinforced the importance of working together to help Tim realize his dreams." She adds, "We are very fortunate to have [Lilly] and DSAW working with Tim and with us to plan his future." If you or your loved one are interested in DSAW's Person Centered Planning, please contact Lilly.

Please consider DSAW in your year-end giving. You have the power to help people like Tim live the life of their dreams.

Looking Back on November 2021

What has DSAW been up to the past month? Families in Southeastern WI enjoyed a night with friends at the Country Christmas light show. Skills Training Academy continues to work on living skills at the DSAW Office. Green Bay Buddy Up Tennis is preparing for the end of the fall session. Social Skills Group began an exciting new project, and our interns kept the office running.

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Giving Tuesday 2021

November 30th was Giving Tuesday! Thank you to all of our life-changing patrons who participated in this worldwide day of giving and chose to support DSAW. Your donations provide a lifetime of care, instruction, and support for individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities.

Still want to provide a lifetime of support? Donate here to our Annual Campaign.

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DSAW- Fox Cities Small Groups

One of the DSAW- Fox Cities Small Groups spent November making Christmas cards for a local hospital, as well as Turkeys for Thanksgiving!

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Country Christmas Lights

DSAW- Southeastern families met up at the Country Christmas light show mid month. Everyone was excited about the new walking path and enjoyed time with friends and family. DSAW was thrilled to host a night of holiday magic for our families!

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Program Updates

DSAW- Green Bay Buddy Up Tennis

DSAW- Green Bay loves partnering with Buddy Up Tennis to bring accessible athletics to their area. The chapter covers the cost of participation for families. Here are some highlights from the fall sessions:

Preston and his buddy Charlie were declared Athletes of the Week! Parker, Ollie, and Grayson became “Future Stars.” We are so proud of all players and their buddies!

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Skills Training Academy

Skills Training Academy includes scheduled class instruction and hands-on application of skills. Some of the recent focus areas have been time management, making time priorities, addressing envelopes & correspondence.

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DSAW- Chippewa Valley Tween Club

Our first Tween Club was a hit! Local tweens enjoyed pizza and friendship at Sammy’s Pizza in Eau Claire. Participants also created cute winter crafts. Our chapter is thrilled at the success of the program and is looking forward to hosting Tween Club on a monthly basis.

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Webinar: Healthy Brain Aging for People with Down syndrome

Dr. Elizabeth Head presented on brain aging in people with Down syndrome and some of the ongoing research studies that people with Down syndrome may be interested in participating in. The webinar was very well-attended and we thank Dr. Head for presenting and all who attended.

Watch the recording here!

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Small Groups

DSAW Small Groups are still a hit! These organized friend group enjoyed various holiday-themed events this month.

Learn More: DSAW Small Groups

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Meet-up at Petzke Park!

Our DSAW friends in Kenosha, Racine, and Walworth counties finally got together again after many months of programming being on hold. The group met up at a beautiful accessible playground called Petzke Park. Two local moms hosted the group and hope to make these outings happen more frequently. Thank you to our KRW friends for coming out!

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Social Skills Group

This month, DSAW’s Social Skills Group began an exciting new project! The group is building Calming Tool Boxes. They have spent time learning different strategies (or tools) to help keep their bodies and minds calm when they are stressed!

“Rainbow Breathing” Exercise

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Virtual Watch Party: “A Charlie Brown Christmas”

DSAW and MADSS friends logged onto Zoom to celebrate Thanksgiving together! The group watched “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” and enjoyed snacks. The group also had some nice discussion about the holidays.

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Super Saturdays

DSAW friends visited the Milwaukee Zoo for this month’s Super Saturday! They had an awesome time seeing the animals and spending time out and about in the community.

DSAW Holiday Gift Guide 2021

DSAW put together a holiday gift guide that includes very special businesses. Our list features companies that were started by people with Down syndrome or other disabilities. It also includes businesses in our community and beyond that put inclusive employment first. The products these companies make are high-quality and make amazing gifts, but what makes them extra special is the mission and story behind the company.

Remember that where you shop matters this holiday season and beyond! By purchasing products from businesses like the ones below, you are supporting inclusive employment and the dreams of entrepreneurs and artisans with Down syndrome and related disabilities.

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Local Businesses (Wisconsin)

Friendship Bakery Of Wisconsin

• Fox Point, Wisconsin

• Friendship Bakery employs and trains adults with special needs as cashiers, bakers, and baristas!

• Cakes and sweet treats! Can do custom orders!

Gracie's Doggie Delights

• Watertown, Wisconsin

• Business started by: Grace Jagler

• Gourmet doggie treats approved by local veterinarians. Also sells various brand merch.

Poppin’ Z’s Popcorn

• Green Bay, Wisconsin

• Family business that employs people with disabilities.

• All kinds of popcorn in unique flavors! Gift baskets and more!

Sweet Abilities

• Waukesha, Wisconsin

• Provides those with different abilities equal working opportunities through a unique and accommodating mobile ice cream business.

• Hot chocolate bombs and ice cream treats!

Food & Treats

Bitty and Beau's Coffee

• Big employer of people with disabilities! Employees work as cashiers and baristas in their various café locations.

• Candles, coffee, apparel, and more!

Collettey’s Cookies

• Business Owner & Baker: Collette DiVitto

• Cookies, gift baskets, children’s books, and merchandise!

FURNACE HILLS COFFEE®

• Employs people with disabilities as coffee roasters.

• Various blends of gourmet coffee beans and grounds!

Gabi’s Grounds

• Business Founder: Gabi

• A gift shop with coffee, treats, merchandise, and more!

Matthew's Bonfire BBQ

• Creator and Chef: Matthew Hessburg

• Gourmet BBQ sauces and grilling accessories!

Poppin Joe's™ Gourmet Kettle Korn

• Owner: Joe Steffy

• Gourmet popcorn available in 5 unique flavors!

Sweet heat Jam Co.

• Culinary Artist & Entrepreneur: Nolan Stilwell

• Unique recipe jelly- many which are spicy!

Fashion

Candidly Kind

• Designer: Grace Key

• Grace puts her original artwork on t-shirts, hats, and totes!

Down to Xjabelle

• Designer & Model: Isabella Springmühl Tejada

• High fashion and inclusive clothing and accessory brand.

Group Hug Apparel

• Entrepreneur: Andrew Banar

• Cool apparel!

John’s Crazy Socks

• Owner: John Cronin

• Specialty socks with fun and colorful designs!

SEANESE

• Owner: Sean McElwee

• Cute t-shirts with Sean’s sayings on them.

Art & Handmade

Geoffrey's River Bend Gallery & Gifts

• Photographer: Geoffrey Mikol

• Geoffrey owns and operates an art gallery in Illinois. You can buy his photography prints or cutting boards, coasters, puzzles, and more!

Just Charlie French

• Artist: Charlie French

• Charlie has his very own art studio and sells his original artwork.

Special Sparkle

• Jewelry Maker: Kelly

• Various beaded bracelets, keychains, necklaces, and more!

Bath & Body

DaBombs by Morgan Tibbens

• Owner: Morgan Tibbens

• Soaps, bath bombs, bath salts, and more!

Mea's Family

Today is Giving Tuesday! After a long weekend of spending, today is a day set aside to give back. By giving to DSAW today, you can provide a lifetime of support to a person with Down syndrome in Wisconsin. To show you the power of your gift, we'd like to tell you about Mea's family from our Chippewa Valley chapter.

Mea comes from a large family - she is the youngest of 7 children! She is 13 years old and happens to have Down syndrome, Type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, as well as Hashimoto's and Graves' disease. Mea's mom Amy says that Mea "is the piece of my heart and soul that I never knew was missing until the day she was born."

Mea was homeschooled in her younger years and now attends a virtual academy. She is very social and with 6 siblings, she is exposed to many people. But Amy noticed that something was just missing. Mea wants a real friend group. And that is why Amy reached out to DSAW about starting a Tween Club. She is "stepping out of her comfort zone because she would do anything to help Mea be successful and fulfilled in life."

All Amy had to do was get on the DSAW website and reach out about starting a Tween Club in the Chippewa Valley. She says, "Before I knew it, we were getting ready to chaperone the first tween get-together!" You provided Amy with the administrative support and funds needed to launch this new group.

Amy told us: "I am so excited about this opportunity. I'm hoping it will grow and we can meet regularly and build friendships...I want Mea to have the same opportunities and experiences as our other typical children."

You gave Mea the chance to meet friends in her community, and you have the ability to do this for other individuals around Wisconsin. When you donate to DSAW, you provide people with disabilities a lifetime of support. Consider giving monthly to DSAW to sustain monthly programs like Tween Club! It is incredibly easy and convenient.

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

Hunter & Connor

I know you are getting a ton of Cyber Monday emails today and you're super busy shopping for the best online deals, but will you take a few minutes to read about the friendship between Hunter and Connor?

In the summer of 2021, DSAW's Children's Services launched a new small group program to help bring participants together in the community. Hunter and Connor, who had never met previously, were both unsure about these outings. In the first few meetings, both boys worked to find common ground to build a friendship. Their mutual love of Star Wars, lightsabers, and missions to rescue Baby Yoda at the park were all these two needed to forge a bond! Hunter even said that his "favorite part of the summer was playing Star Wars at the park with Connor!"

Throughout the summer, Hunter and Connor learned the importance of supporting your friends in different social settings. They built each other up while the other was struggling, encouraged one another to try new things, and most importantly, they learned that life is always more fun with a friend around.

Connor's mom Brenda shared that "The small group service that DSAW offers was a big help in finding someone with whom Connor could connect during the summer. He and Hunter have a lot of the same interests so it was very easy for them to get along and interact with each other!"

DSAW's Children's Services department offers one-on-one services, programs, and classes for children ages 0-17 with Down syndrome and other diverse abilities. We have virtual programs for children across the state, daily living skills training, and small groups to help our young friends with disabilities exceed expectations and achieve their dreams.

You can provide young children with Down syndrome the opportunity to meet their best friend by making a donation to DSAW on Giving Tuesday (tomorrow!!). Why not!?

Meet Sweet Owen

Happy (almost) Thanksgiving! We at DSAW are so grateful for each and every one of you. You make it possible for people with Down syndrome and other diverse abilities to access a lifetime of support through DSAW. Thank you.

You make it possible for families like Owen's to receive comfort, resources, and support in the moments following a Down syndrome diagnosis. Owen's parents Abby and Colin received their son's prenatal diagnosis in the middle of the pandemic. Abby recounts that a masked doctor, "standing as far away as possible started talking quickly through 'soft markers' and 'heightened concerns.' Big, multi-syllable words came after that [she] later found out meant a cyst in the brain, an enlarged right side of the heart, and possible chromosomal issues."

Because of the pandemic, Abby was alone when she received this diagnosis. She went home to Colin and remembers that "it was a really scary time and we were thrown off...we grieved the baby we had originally pictured then started reaching out for help and resources to understand our new life."

Abby and Colin reached out to DSAW's Parent's First Call program shortly after their diagnosis. They requested to be connected with a trained support parent to help them navigate their uncertainty, and Abby remembers the call distinctly. She asked a million questions, and because of that conversation, "the uncertainty left and [she] felt a lot lighter."

Now, Owen is thriving! "He is the happiest, most joyful, and content little human and his smile brightens an entire room." Abby says that her life is BETTER with him in it! You can follow along with their beautiful family journey on Instagram and Facebook: @abbyrosegreen

When you make a gift to DSAW on Giving Tuesday (11/30), you offer support to families in the moments following their diagnosis. You start their lifetime of support with hope and love. Will you give that gift of hope to a family this holiday season? You can even designate your donation to a specific DSAW chapter!

PS - Getting good deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Consider donating your savings on Giving Tuesday!

Looking Back on October 2021

We had a fantastic fall! Families across Wisconsin continued to utilize DSAW Connects and free virtual programs. DSAW- Fox Cities hosted their annual Awareness Walk AND gave their office a makeover. DSAW- Green Bay is sponsoring an adaptive fitness program for self advocates. DSAW- Southeastern WI hosted fall programs in the community, and in-person programs continued at the office.

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DSAW- Fox Cities Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

We kicked off the month with the DSAW- Fox Cities 12th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk! Walk Day was a blast and the chapter exceeded its fundraising goal! With the help of the community, DSAW- Fox Cities raised $130,000 this Walk season! Thank you to all of our community members who participated or supported this event! Big thank you to the volunteers as well. We couldn’t have done it without you!

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Fall Fun!

DSAW Saturday Fun Days

Our Super Saturday Group went to Lindner Pumpkin Farm for an afternoon of fall fun! The group picked pumpkins, walked the corn maze, and had a great time together!

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Creative Corner

Creative Corner made a spooky craft for the season. They used cotton balls to make cute ghosts!

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Virtual Family Night: Halloween Party

DSAW hosted a virtual Halloween Party! Attendees got to wear their Halloween costumes and enjoy spooky fun online! The costumes were amazing! Participants drew a haunted house, played Halloween Hangman, and decorated cookies.

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Family Fun Day at Lindner Pumpkin Farm

DSAW families were treated to a day at the farm! Over 100 people joined us for a fun, fall day at Lindner Pumpkin Farm. Families enjoyed the petting zoo, corn maze, Big Back Yard playground and pumpkin bowling.

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DSAW- Fox Cities Tween Club Halloween Party

DSAW- Fox Cities hosted a Tween Club Halloween Party! Staff and participants went all out with costumes and decorations! They had a fun and spooky time!

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Program Updates

DSAW- Green Bay Buddy Up Tennis

DSAW- Green Bay is helping to reduce the cost of an adaptive sports program for local families! The program is called Buddy Up Tennis. Buddy Up Tennis is a clinic consisting of professional tennis instruction and fitness conditioning. Local children and self advocates love the opportunity to pair up with a typically developing community member to learn new skills and have fun!

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Skills Training Academy

Skills Training Academy meets at DSAW’s headquarters in West Allis. It includes scheduled class instruction and hands-on application of skills. Some of the recent focus areas have been learning how to tell time, setting an alarm on a smartphone and a clock, and finding ways to stay active and have fun!

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New merch coming soon!

DSAW Work Hub

DSAW is lucky to have a stellar group of interns working at Headquarters this fall. This group splits time between instruction and doing jobs around the office. Some of the recent topics they discussed are workplace behavior, conversation skills, body language, and more! During work time, interns take inventory of various products, help with cleaning projects, and this month, they even got to model new DSAW merchandise!

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DSAW- Fox Cities Office Makeover!

Our friends in the Fox Cities spent a Sunday painting their new office! The group tackled the largest, main room and got it all done. The coat of paint makes a huge difference and the results are beautiful. Next staff looks forward to getting new flooring!

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Small Groups

DSAW Small Groups had a painting party! This fun-loving group loved the opportunity to get creative in the community.

Learn More: DSAW Small Groups

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Social Skills Group

Social Skills Group in Southeastern WI uses hands-on activities to teach participants about concepts related to relationships, behavior, and daily living skills. This group of kiddos is starting to learn about emotions and how their feelings can play into the relationships they develop!

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Thank you, DSAW Grandparents Group

Our Parent’s First Call program partners thank members of the DSAW Grandparent’s Group for their generous in-kind donations this month! Grandparents in the group dropped off baby socks, small toys, and books at the DSAW Office to be used in our new parent welcome baskets and expectant parent packs. Thank you for thinking of PFC!

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DSAW Webinar: Aging with Down Syndrome & Tips for Promoting Cognitive Brain Health at Every Age

Dr. Donna Marie Fick presented on common issues encountered during aging with Down syndrome. The webinar was a great opportunity for parents and health care professionals to get their questions about again answered. Thank you to Dr. Fick for presenting and the Marjorie Christiansen Foundation for sponsoring.

Advocacy Alert: Important Disability Legislation

Important disability bills are advancing through the legislature but need a final push from disability advocates like you before they can be sent to the Governor and signed into law! Read about these two important bills and how you can help below!

Equal treatment of reports of abuse and neglect (SB395/AB 400)

• The state Senate passed its version of the bill Monday October 25th!

• Now the state Assembly must schedule a floor vote and pass SB 395/AB400.

What does this bill do?

• This bill makes a technical change to make sure reports of abuse are equally investigated regardless of a person’s age.

• Current law required Adult Protective Services (APS) to investigate reports of abuse for adults 60 and over.

• Current law allows counties discretion on whether to investigate reports of abuse for people ages 18-59 living with disabilities, known as Adults at Risk

• Bill has no fiscal impact

How to help:

• Call Rep. Jim Steineke, Assembly Majority Leader and Chair of Assembly Rules Committee, at (608) 266-2418 (Rep.Steineke@legis.wisconsin.gov)

• Call Rep Robin Vos, Assembly Speaker Assembly Majority Leader and Vice-Chair of Assembly Rules Committee, at (608) 266-9171 (Rep.Vos@legis.wisconsin.gov)

• ASK THEM TO SCHEDULE AN ASSEMBLY FLOOR VOTE FOR SB 395/AB 400 THIS FALL SESSION

• Thank your state Senator for passing SB 395

  • Find your legislator

Improve access to ABLE savings accounts (SB 158/AB 167)

• The state Senate passed its version of the bill June 9th!

• Now the state Assembly must schedule a floor vote and pass SB 158/AB 167.

What does this bill do?

• Direct the state to study establishing a Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program so people with disabilities and families can earn and save more either directly or by entering into an agreement with another state or alliance of states

• This bill will take concrete steps to make ABLE accounts more accessible for Wisconsin families.

• ABLE accounts allow people who have a disability that developed before age 26 to have a tax-exempt savings account set up to cover allowable expenses (like transportation, assistive technology, personal support services, education, etc.).

• ABLE accounts do not affect eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid.
  Bill has no fiscal impact

How to Help:

• Call Rep. Jim Steineke, Assembly Majority Leader, at (608) 266-2418 (Rep.Steineke@legis.wisconsin.gov)

• Call Rep Robin Vos, Assembly Speaker, at (608) 266-9171 (Rep.Vos@legis.wisconsin.gov)

• ASK THEM TO SCHEDULE AN ASSEMBLY FLOOR VOTE FOR SB 158/AB 167 THIS FALL SESSION

Advocacy in Action

Advocacy in Action!

Dawn and Abby at the Capitol!

DSAW advocated for the rights of people with disabilities at the Capitol earlier this month! DSAW’s Executive Director, Dawn Nuoffer, and her daughter Abby spoke directly to the members of the Assembly Committee on Health regarding Assembly Bill 539. They expressed support of the bill from DSAW and other disability organizations in the state like Wisconsin Board for People with Development Disabilities, Survival Coalition, Save IRIS, National Down Syndrome Society, Madison Area Down Syndrome Society, and more.

What is Assembly Bill 539?

Assembly Bill 539 relates to prohibiting discrimination in organ transplantation on the basis of disability. This bill clarifies that doctors, hospitals, transplant centers, and other health care providers are prohibited from denying access to necessary organ transplants solely on the basis of a qualified individual’s disability. Additionally, this bill requires that, when evaluating the likelihood of a transplant’s success, health providers consider the full range of supports available to help a person with a disability manage their post-operative care. The bill also includes a fast-track procedure for challenging discrimination to ensure that people in urgent need of an organ transplant obtain timely resolutions to their claims.

Update: Bill 539 passed both the assembly and senate unanimously! The bill now needs approval from the governor to pass.

Does this type of discrimination happen?

Although federal and state laws prohibit organ transplant discrimination, people with disabilities are often denied equal access to organ transplants because of discriminatory assumptions that their lives are of poorer quality than those of people without disabilities, in addition to misconceptions about the ability of people with disabilities to comply with post-operative care. A study by Stanford University showed that 85 percent of pediatric transplant centers consider intellectual or developmental disabilities when determining eligibility for transplants. Additionally, 71 percent of heart programs also consider disabilities as a factor.

Abby speaking to Assembly Members

Self-Advocate Spotlight: Abby

During the committee meeting, Abby Nuoffer gave a moving appeal. She spoke to her experience as a self-advocate and made sure the assembly members knew that if she needed life-saving surgery, she should have the same access to organ donation as her typically-developing peers. We are so proud of Abby’s great representation of people with Down syndrome and her willingness to use her voice to advocate for herself and others!

Looking Back on September 2021

September was WALK MONTH! All of our chapters were very busy prepping and hosting their Annual Down syndrome Awareness Walks all over the state of Wisconsin! In Southeastern WI, Fox Cities, and Madison in-person programming continues and virtual programming went on as usual across the state. Read on for more details!

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DSAW hosted 6 Awareness Walks in the month of September! These Walks raise necessary funds to help keep DSAW chapters running in every region of Wisconsin. All of our chapters thank their sponsors and volunteers as well as anyone who helped fundraise, joined a team, or showed up on Walk Day! DSAW strives to be the best-supported state in the country for people with Down syndrome and their families and we could not achieve that without the help of all of you!!

DSAW- Southeastern WI 25th Anniversary Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

DSAW- Southeastern hosted its 25th Anniversary Down Syndrome Awareness Walk and family festival at the Milwaukee County Zoo on September 26th! We had an awesome turnout and exceeded our fundraising goal of $170,000!! SNAP Poms and Bella Via Dance Troupe gave energizing performances throughout the day. There were carnival games, a rock climbing wall, raffles, and more! Tom Pipines emceed our pre-walk program and 21 Showcase. The highlight of the day was when participants with Down syndrome walked down a red carpet and were celebrated by our huge crowd of attendees. We had a record number of 21 Showcase participants- 70+! We were blown away by the support and generosity of our community! BIG thank yous to everyone who fundraised from home, virtual participants, all of our amazing corporate sponsors, and the 190 volunteers who showed up to make this day happen!

Miss our Walk? You can still donate to DSAW- Southeastern WI here!

Madison Area Down Syndrome Society 20th Anniversary Awareness Walk

MADSS kicked off Walk Season with their Awareness Walk on September 19th. They started their event with a car parade that ended at Olin Park. The Walk and family festival included music, games, raffles, and more! There was a beautiful program that announced MADSS’s accomplishments, thanked sponsors, and celebrated the top fundraising teams. Because of amazing sponsorships and community support, MADSS crushed their fundraising goal and will be able to keep making dreams come true for individuals with Down syndrome and their families in the Madison area.

Missed this Walk? You can still donate to MADSS here!

DSAW- Central Wisconsin 4th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

DSAW- Central WI held their 4th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk at Marathon Park on September 25th! They had an excellent turnout and wonderful weather. The event had a huge raffle with almost 40 baskets full of goods from local businesses. The Board would like to shout-out University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point for massive student participation in this event. The UWSP Dance Team preformed and cheered on walkers as well. Participants with Down Syndrome were celebrated during the 21 Showcase and the Top 3 Fundraising Teams were awarded cash prizes. It was an incredible event!

Missed our Walk? Donate here!

DSAW- Chippewa Valley 15th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

DSAW- Chippewa Valley held their 15th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk on September 26th at Irvine Park. This chapter had a hugely successful fundraising year thanks to wonderful corporate sponsorships. The family festival included live music, a catered lunch, and raffles for all. The Top Fundraising Teams were recognized during the pre-walk rally. The chapter is excited to use their extra fundraising dollars to benefit families in their community!

Missed this Walk? You can donate here!

DSAW- Green Bay 13th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

DSAW- Green Bay had their 13th Annual Awareness Walk in a new location this year- Capital Credit Union Stadium! The Walk was very well-attended and the chapter exceeded its fundraising goal! The family festival included raffles, games, and a 21 Showcase to celebrate participants with Down syndrome. Everyone had a wonderful day raising awareness and acceptance!

You can still donate here if you missed the Walk!

DSAW- La Crosse 19th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk

DSAW- La Crosse celebrated Down syndrome awareness and unity at their 19th Annual Down Syndrome Awareness Walk! They created a visual display of their walk theme (unity) by having everyone in attendance wear their 2021 Walk t-shirts. The Walk was held at Myrick Park and had a great turnout. Winners were recognized during a pre-walk rally and then all participants walked along the route.

Missed this Walk? Donate here!

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DSAW- Fox Cities Update

DSAW- Fox Cities promoted their upcoming Awareness Walk on the local news! Dan, a member of DSAW- Fox Cities and a self advocate, spoke with Sam, a DSAW Staff Member, and his sister, DSAW- Fox Cities Client Services Manager Jen, about important fundraising deadlines and what to look forward to at the Walk! We are so proud of them for representing DSAW and getting the word out!

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Self-advocate Spotlight: Miranda!

With support from JQ, Miranda was able to achieve her dream of becoming a certified yoga instructor!

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DSAW Program Updates

DSAW Skills Training Academy

Skills Training Academy includes scheduled class instruction paired with hands-on application of skills. This class includes time for physical workout, along with some fun and creative activities for our participants. Some of these activities include: fall door decorations, technology trivia, hula hoop exercise, tic-tac-toe basketball, bingo, karaoke, technology memory & practice in creating events using an app. 

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Tween Club Is Back!

Tween Club is back in Southeastern WI and Fox Cities!!

This is a FREE program for children with Down syndrome and other disabilities who are under 18! Both locations host it once a month!

More Information & Sign Up

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Virtual Family Night: BINGO Party

DSAW loves hosting virtual fun for families once a month! This month’s family night was Virtual BINGO! Families had a great time getting competitive and having fun online. We are looking forward to the next one already!

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DSAW Small Groups

DSAW Small Groups are a huge success! Participants under and over 18 love the opportunity to develop friendships, meet new people, and explore their communities. This group went out to a delicious dinner together!

More Information

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Social Skills Group

Participants create their own SMART goals in DSAW Social Skills Group! This group and groups like it are perfect for individuals who are interested in goal setting, improving their communication skills, and working on social interactions!

Looking Back on August 2021

Summer is flying by at DSAW! State hosted the Annual DSAW Golf Outing. DSAW- Green Bay held a bike-along along the Fox River. DSAW- La Crosse invited local families to a huge outdoor picnic. DSAW-Sheboygan hosted their Mini Golf & Awareness Walk Fundraiser. Families from all over the state attended a virtual hula lesson and we wrapped up our summer in-person programs in Southeastern WI, Madison, and the Fox Cities. Read on for more!

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25th Annual Pip & Homer Golf Outing

On August 11th, DSAW hosted our 25th Annual Golf Outing! Unfortunately due to storms, golfers were unable to use carts on the course during the event, but all attendees received a voucher to come play another day, and many chose to walk the golf course instead. Despite the weather, we still enjoyed the usual activities: putting contests, raffles, a paddle auction, and of course great food.

DSAW is so grateful to all event staff, volunteers, and attendees for coming out and making the best of this day with us. We appreciate the generosity and flexibility of everyone! Thank you to Western Lakes for hosting us, to Pip and Homer for emceeing our event, and to our key sponsors: Erie Insurance, Alpine Plywood Corp, PCI, Cardinal Capital Management, and Sid Grinker.

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DSAW- Sheboygan Mini Golf & Walk Fundraiser

Thank you to everyone who helped make The DSAW- Sheboygan Mini Golf & Walk Fundraiser a huge success on August 28th! We were able to crush our fundraising goals and celebrate incredible individuals and families in our community. Thank you to volunteers, vendors, key sponsors, and everyone who participated!

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Green Bay Bike Along

DSAW- Green Bay hosted a bike along event along the Fox River! Local tweens and teens with Down syndrome rode bikes with their families all the way to Voyageur Park. Then the group had their family play group for the little kids! Thanks for everyone who showed up!

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DSAW- Central WI DJ Dance Party

Our Central WI chapter kicked off August with a dance party for teens and tweens. One of our awesome board members hosted the dance. What made the party really special was DJ Andrew Patterson! He is a local DJ who has Down syndrome and the events he plays for us are always the most fun:) Thanks to all who attended!

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Statewide Campground Day

DSAW- Fox Cities hosted a day of free admission to Evergreen Campground for people with disabilities and their families. The chapter extended the offer to all DSAW chapters and the event was well-attended by families from all over Wisconsin.

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Summer Skills Training Academy

Summer Skills Training Academy came to a close at the end of August. We had the best summer ever and learned so much! This program will pick back up in fall.

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DSAW Summer Work Hub

It was sad to see the DSAW Work Hub come to an end for summer. During their time together interns played games to review the major soft skills they worked on- team work, problem solving, flexibility, zones of regulation, strategies, taking initiative, positive self talk, and whole body listening! Everyone was fully aware of their goals that they made at the beginning of hub and everyone showed improvement!

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321 Fun Camp

DSAW- Fox Cities completed a 4 week long program called 321 Fun Summer Camp! Participants loved being in the new Appleton WI headquarters this summer. Camp was spent doing many fun things such as bowling, swimming and splash pads, board games, crafts, Wii sports, Just Dance, karaoke, as well as musical sessions with Expressive Therapies and yoga sessions with Be Center for Holistic Mental Health and Healing.

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Behind the scenes!

Virtual Hula Lesson

DSAW hosted a virtual hula class with Na Hale Studios! Participants had a blast learning about Polynesian culture and how each hula move represents something. The class learned a dance about going to a party - or hukilau - after a day of fishing. Tina the instructor performed the dance that was in Lilo and Stitch. Participants got to ask her questions too!

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DSAW Webinar Series Presents: Inclusive Education: Establishing a Shared Understanding of Why, What and How.

DSAW hosted a webinar called Inclusive Education: Establishing a Shared Understanding of Why, What and How. The content was geared towards educators and professionals in the education field. The presenter was Michelle Lockwood. She is the Director of Positive Behavior Support Services for the New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education. She covered what inclusive education looks like in practice and what it takes to make inclusive education happen. Participants had time to ask questions at the end.

Missed this webinar? We have recordings of our webinars for you to access anytime. Please click the link to explore our Webinar Library or to access the recording of Inclusive Education: Establishing a Shared Understanding of Why, What and How.

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DSAW Small Groups

DSAW Small Groups helped these two reconnect after going separate ways following high school! The group had beach days, practiced ordering different food and drinks in the community, went shopping and had a great summer!

FINDING A JOB MADSS SEGMENT