News from and for the West Michigan Down syndrome community!
Summer 2020
It goes without saying that since our last publication of the DSA Press in
February, life has changed. COVID-19 has significantly impacted our personal, professional, and social lives. For many in our community, the sudden change to expected routines and hardships created by the effects of the virus have been challenging. But ours is a community built on resilience. It wasn't surprising, then, to see our parents step up to fill the roles of educator and therapist and our members transition to and embrace the new normal. At DSAWM, we are fortunate to have staff and volunteers who continue to work diligently to adapt to our ever-changing landscape. We have been offering virtual programming to members since April, began integrating socially-distanced in-person programs last month, and are currently organizing the logistics to make this year's Step Up event another successful and celebratory fundraiser. While our fall and winter schedule remains uncertain, we are encouraged by the continued support of our membership and community. We invite you to further support our mission by making a donation, becoming a member, or simply sharing our story. Stay safe and healthy and we look forward to reuniting with you all soon!
A Beautiful Thing
Travis Cole, Mio
At just 2 years old, Bennett Cole is, as his father Travis lovingly describes, "as sassy as a 16 year old." While Travis knows that the stigma of his son's diagnosis will affect Bennett's life, he looks forward to teaching him that having Down syndrome should not and will not define him.
A Proud & Grateful Momma
Lori Slenk, Zeeland
Lori recounts the day she welcomed her daughter Anna into the world as one of the most difficult of her life. After receiving an at-birth diagnosis of Down syndrome, she worried about what the future would hold for her daughter. Lori never could have imagined the joy and blessings that lay ahead.
Best Birthday Ever!
Molly VandeWater, Wyoming
Molly celebrated her 32nd birthday last month. From blueberry picking with her CLS worker to enjoying a Frozen 2-themed cake with friends, Molly’s birthday was a day to remember!
More News
Upcoming Events
Step Up for Down Syndrome
September 26
Click here for details
COVID-19 Resources
Thank You
DSAWM thanks our donors whose contributions allow us to expand our outreach and provide programming and services free of charge to our members. We could not do what we do without your support!
Special thanks to...
General Donations
Custom Profile

Global Down Syndrome Foundation

John E. Fetzer Institute

Knights of Columbus Council 3104

KPMG U.S. Foundation, Inc.

Pals Socks

Penn Station East Coast Subs

Reeves Plastics, LLC

Samuel L. Westerman Foundation

Team Financial Group

Tuff Cover

Mr. & Mrs. Drew Boersma

Ms. Marilyn Karel

Mr. Richard Lacks

Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Manion

Mr. & Mrs. Tomasz and Ewa Timek

Mr. & Mrs. Doug and Tracy Warsen
Sponsorships
Dan Vos Construction Company
Moms' Night Out, Dads' Night Out

Peggy LaPenna
Buddy Up Tennis

Lugers Family Foundation
Adaptive Water Ski Clinic, Rapid Runners

Meijer
Cooking Capers

Pridgeon & Clay
Cooking Capers, iCan Bike Camp

Red Glasses Movement
General Programming

The Scarlett Family in loving memory of Kelli’s friend Brooke Blake
Baby Sign Language, Book Club

Dan Vos Construction Company, Best Financial Credit Union, Lakewood Construction, King Milling Company, MSU Federal Credit Union, Peterson Farms, Super Jay / I Am Me, Bill and Bobbi Blanton, Brian and Cheryl Doyle, Tom and Julie Hackett, Tom and Joan Hayes, Peggy LaPenna
Step Up for Down Syndrome

Miller Johnson, Buist Electric, DWH, Lakewood Construction, Langlois Construction, Macatawa Bank, Magna Mirrors, Mercantile Bank of America, Middleville Tool & Die, PADNOS, Plante Moran, Silver Bullet Firearms, Bill and Bobbi Blanton, Derek and Melissa Burgess, Todd and Melissa Hoefler, Mary Ann Keeler, Jim and Mary Nelson, Paul and Beth Taylor
Winners Cup (gift donated to general fund or reserved for 2021 due to event cancellation)
These donors made gifts or sponsorship commitments of $500 or more to DSAWM since January 2020. Listing as of publication date.
Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan
233 Fulton St E, Ste 124 | Grand Rapids, MI 49546
 616.956.3488 | victoria@dsawm.org | dsawm.org