Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta BiAnnual Conference

The Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta holds a bi-annual educational conference on Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities.

The DSAA next bi-annual conference will be held Nov. 7-9, 2008 in Atlanta. This conference provides the latest information in the areas of medical research, education, and support. It is geared towards parents, teachers, doctors and anyone who loves and/or supports individuals with Down syndrome. This year we will also be celebrating DSAA’s 30 year Anniversary at Sat. evening’s anniversary Gala, which will include dinner and dancing. The theme for the Gala is “Back in the “70’s.” View flier

The 2008 National Down Syndrome Congress Convention will be held in Boston, MA, July 11-13, 2008 at the Seaport and Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotels. For more information go to www.ndsccenter.org and click on Convention 2008

As always, the goal of our conference is to bring in top speakers on a variety of subjects at a low cost to families. Our presenters include nationally recognized speakers as well as many local experts from the medical, education and advocacy communities.

2006 Conference

After having attended the 34th Annual National Down Syndrome Congress Convention in Atlanta, there is one word that comes to mind . . .Inspiration!  Meeting hundreds of parents from around the world who also have a child with Down syndrome was a truly inspirational experience.  Meeting the authors of the books that we all have on our nightstands and shelves at home was a treat.  Hearing directly from the physicians and therapists about the latest research and treatment options in Down syndrome was enriching.  For each of you who had the opportunity to attend any part of the convention, you know what I’m talking about.  The other very inspirational part about this year’s convention was the number of DSAA members who not only participated, but also were an active part of the event.  The Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta played a significant role in this year’s Annual Convention.  As the host city, the DSAA Board served as ambassadors to the hundreds of families from across the nation who attended at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis. Jennifer Carroll, DSAA’s immediate past President served as Volunteer Coordinator and recruited over 400 individuals who served in many capacities throughout the 3-day convention.  Jennifer was recognized at the Award Banquet for her outstanding leadership and accomplishment.  We had several DSAA members who served as Facilitators of the Parent Sharing Sessions:Alyssa Allen, Michelle Norweck, Adriana Melone, Karen Wise,Denise Quigley,Kathy Everett, Jane Shaw,Joan Essen,Joe Carroll, JimOutman. The following members were part of the elite100 presenters at this year’s convention:  Heidi Moore, KathyEverett, Zoila Martinez and Susy Martorell.  Dr. Leslie Rubin, Janice Nodvin and Susan Duncan from the Adult Down Syndrome Program also presented.  Cara Plugge coordinated the DSAA Exhibit table ofvolunteers which included: Russ and Cara Plugge, Michelle Norweck Yvonne Pierre, Julie Anderson, Mary Anne Blackwell, Yanna Rodriguez, Debbie Hibben, Shere’ Owens, Susan TenEyck and Johnetta Harris.  Diane Saliceti single handedly created special thank you bags for each of the 100 speakers.  Matt Rasnick created and produced a video, which highlighted the DSAA’s purpose and objectives. Stephanie Meredith coordinated volunteers who introduced the 100 speakers, and many of our members were selected to make these introductions and served as the A/V liaison.  There are so many more of you who contributed in many otherways, and to each of you I say THANK YOU.  The NDSC presented an award to the DSAA in appreciation for the support and assistance with the 2006 convention.   I was asked to receive the award on behalf of the DSAA.  I wish to repeat here the words that I spoke from my heart that evening: “ It is an honor and a privilege to represent the DSAA as Executive Director.  I know I speak for our Co-Presidents, Dale Greig and Steve Harrison when I say this award is dedicated to each of our Board Members, Self Advocates, Families, and Volunteers. Thank you.”
So thank you DSAA members and know that you exemplify the very essence of the Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta:  Inspiring Strength, Understanding and Success!