- Buddy Walk® Planning Committee
dedicated volunteers that meet once a month to plan the Buddy Walk, DSAV’s largest fundraising event. This group of individuals handles the details of the event such as obtaining corporate sponsors, print material and t-shirts, coordinating with donors for food, raffle items, etc. and many other countless details that are necessary to provide a fun day for families to enjoy.
requires the successful completion of the Community Connection training. Community Connection leaders host a monthly meeting for other DSAV parents in their geographic area covering various topics and needs. (may coordinate with Palygroup Pals). Leaders are also familiar with the programs and policies of their particular office of Developmental Disability to help facilitate and connect families to the appropriate services. Additional training or resources may be needed through the county or state DD offices.
Availability to attend community events/activities where it is appropriate to have information about our organization displayed. Example of this would be the Special Needs Expo, the Special Olympics, Millcreek Holiday Display, etc. Duties include obtaining appropriate DSAV print material and display board from the DSAV office, bringing it to the event, man the table, and know enough about DSAV to provide answers to questions. This committee is also responsible for the public library displays during the month of October or other designated times.
We are always looking for energetic and enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to share their story about their experience with DSAV to solicit potential corporate donors for a financial contribution. If you have an "in" with a corporation, this is a great way for you to help the organization.
Dad's Appreciating Down Syndrome is a national organization run through local Down syndrome groups to assist and support the fathers and families of individuals with Down syndrome
Volunteer photographers are always welcome to provide professional or candid shots of individuals participating in our events.
The fundraising committee is responsible for establishing various fund raising efforts for the DSAV. Buddy Walk® is a seperate committee, but fundraising committee members are certainly welcome to assist with that major fund raising campaign.
The GRANDS (Grandparents Relating, Advocating & Networking for Down Syndrome) group is a place for grandparents to work together in support of each other and their grandchildren.
- Healthcare Partnership Program
The DSAV Healthcare partnership program works to ensure that all parents and expectant parents receiving a diagnosis of Down syndrome are given this news with accurate information, sensitivity and support including information about the DSAV. The program also works to see that individuals with Down syndrome receive health care that addresses the specific developmental and medical needs of those with Down syndrome and the best practices to address them.
Just About Moms is our social gathering group for the moms of DSAV. The goal is to offer a few hours a month for moms to kick back, relax and visit with other moms while being encouraged and supported by those who "get it".
- LAMP (Literacy, Arts and Math Program)
In place to assist parents and teachers in the education of children with Down syndrome. LAMP "shines a light" on strategic programs and systems that suit the specific needs of those with Ds. Materials are available to be used in the Center for Success, at home or within the classroom or school the child attends.
Motivated and articulate volunteers are welcome to share their experience with DSAV and serve as advocates in the community to protect the rights of individuals with Down syndrome. When legislative issues come up that affect the rights or benefits of individuals with Down syndrome (or any disability), it is important for us to have a pool of volunteers who actively keep abreast of these topics and are willing to publicly make their voice be heard locally, in Columbus and perhaps even in D.C.
Office volunteers are needed on a regular basis. Ideally, we would like at minimum of three volunteers who come in on a regular basis whether it is once a month, twice a month, or once a week. Typical tasks performed by office volunteers include: photocopying, assistance with large mailings, assembling packets of print materials for our programs, and affixing labels to various print materials. Computer knowledge may be needed for particular projects.
Parent Podium is the opportunity for enthusiastic parents to share their experiences with other families. If you have an area of professional expertise or insight that you would like to share with either our members or people in the community, we welcome your talent and would like to provide the appropriate platform for you to share your message.
- Parents & Schools in Partnership
The DSAV Parents and Schools in Partnership Program promotes collaborative relationships between DSAV and local school districts to effect positive outcomes for students with Down syndrome and their families. This program requires certified teachers, paraprofessional or others with a strong commitment to education to establish and help facilitate the program with a designated school.
The need for playgroups varies widely across our service area. Ideally, we would like a Playgroup Pal in each county or segment of a county so gatherings are conveniently located for caregivers and children to attend. Until a Playgroup Pal is established in each area, more generalized gatherings will be held at the Center for Success or other locations. The Playgroup Pal will organize age-based gatherings and the DSAV will promote them on line and in print.
Plus Twenty-One (PTO), is a social committee that caters to individuals with Down syndrome age 21 and older. Events include bowling, picnics, sporting events or any activity that those in the group might enjoy.
Whether a self advocate is volunteering for DSAV or showcasing their abilities outside in the community, it speaks volumes and reinforces our vision of assuring that individuals with Down syndrome are active participants in a fully inclusive society.
The Social Committee is charged with the task of organizing the DSAV annual Christmas Party, Costume party, and other (non-fund raising) social events.
The Sunshine committee is responsible for sending birthday greeting cards to DSAV members with Down syndrome. The committee also sends sympathy, get well or other cards as necessary.
This position requires the successful completion of the TULIP training program executed by the DSAV. Volunteers visit new or expectant parents who have received the diagnosis of Down syndrome for their child and have requested contact. Volunteer openings are limited for this sensitive program.
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