I can’t wait! It is no secret that I love being involved with the Down syndrome community here in the Triad. I have emceed their 3-2-1 Deacon Dash in the spring and Buddy Walk in the fall for years. Now I have the honor of being a guest at the first ever Starlight Gala on May 7th at the Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem. I encourage you to buy a ticket to this Inaugural event and join me in supporting the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Winston-Salem!
This gala is the culmination of 16 years of advocacy by the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Winston-Salem (DSAGWS). For almost two decades the DSAGWS has been the leader of education, advocacy, and support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The DSAGWS exists to create opportunities for those with Down syndrome, their parents, and other caregivers to support each other and enrich the lives of children and adults with Down syndrome. From providing job training and opportunities, to educating the public at large about all the wonderful things membership can achieve, to inclusive events such as the 3-2-1 Deacon Dash and their No Limits II dance parties, the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Winston-Salem aims to foster a more inclusive Triad community and to highlight the unique gifts that our neighbors with Down syndrome can offer.
The Inaugural Starlight Gala’s theme is Shining a Light on Abilities and will feature a performance by The Improvaneers, a groundbreaking comedy troupe form Ohio made up of performers with Down syndrome – and I cannot wait to see what they have in store! The evening will also feature a silent auction, music, award presentations, and a special guest, disability advocate and actor Frank Stephens. Mr. Stephens will return to the Triad, having previously visited on a speaking tour in the spring of 2019, and he was scheduled to be with us for the 2021 Buddy Walk until the pandemic forced the event to go virtual. Mr. Stephens is a great friend to many in the Down syndrome community here in the Triad.
The Down Syndrome community brings a message of acceptance and inclusion in a way that is simply remarkable. During these crazy times this is a good example and lesson for all of us. Join us and you will be hooked just like me. The genuine love and support will fill your heart like never before. I promise!
Those who know me know that each event that I do with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Winston-Salem is my favorite! And this fundraiser is at the top of my list. It is so important for the Triad community at large to support this important part of our community. Please join me in continuing to support some of the best, most genuine members of the Triad community at the Starlight Gala.