Gerry Boeckmann Steps Up: Boeckmann Awarded $1,000 For Step Up Walk Team

Our support for the Down Syndrome Guild of Kansas City and other Down syndrome organizations is only possible because of the amazing people who support us. Gerry Boeckmann, Down syndrome advocate and First Downs for Down Syndrome supporter, was recently recognized for his admirable efforts.

Boeckmann, a first officer with United Airlines, received a $1,000 reward for his accomplishments as a team captain at the 2013 Step Up for Down Syndrome walk. Boeckmann and his team walked on behalf of his son, Noah, who has Down syndrome. Their team, Noah’s Angels, exceeded everyone’s expectations by raising over $4,000 at last year’s event.

Pictured: Sarah Wren, Amy Allison, Gerry Boeckmann, Amy Stoll & Tiffany Way.

We can’t express how thankful we are for Gerry Boeckmann’s support – and we can’t wait to see what his team raises in 2014!

First Downs for Down Syndrome Presents Check to Local Down Syndrome Clinic

On Wednesday First Downs for Down Syndrome presented Children’s Mercy Hospital’s Down Syndrome Clinic a check for $48,242.

For the past 18 years First Downs for Down Syndrome has supported Children’s Mercy’s clinic, awarding more than $500,000. The Down Syndrome Clinic addresses the needs of children with Down syndrome as well as offers support and education to their families. The clinic also serves as a consultative service and screening mechanism for children with Down syndrome from birth through adolescence, following the Health Care Guidelines created by the National Network of Medical Clinics for Children with Down syndrome.

Thanks to your support, Children’s Mercy has been able to help many Kansas City families and children affected by Down syndrome. With your continued support, we can help improve the quality of life for many more affected by this genetic condition. 

Visit our website, www.fdfds.org, to learn more about upcoming events and how you can bring more hope to Kansas City children and families.

Why We Care About Down Syndrome

Despite the fact that Down syndrome is the most common genetic condition in the United States, we still don’t know everything there is to know about it. Yet, every day we are happy to learn more about our family and friends as they discover the world in a brand new way. But what we do know is that people with Down syndrome live the same lives we do. They laugh with us, learn with us, cry with us and even work with us. 

We also know that individuals with Down syndrome are at-risk for congenital heart conditions, gastrointestinal problems, Celiac disease, hearing conditions, eye problems and thyroid conditions. These hard truths – and the mysteries – about Down syndrome are the reasons why we continue to care about the genetic condition. 

So we work with and raise funds for Kansas City Down syndrome organizations and clinics like the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City, the Mission Project and the Down Syndrome Clinic at Children’s Mercy Hospital. We support these organizations so that those families, new parents and individuals affected by Down syndrome have the resources they need to live happy, fulfilling lives. 

That’s why we care about, and advocate for, Down syndrome. And we think it’s a pretty good reason for you to care, too. We challenge you to join us at one of our upcoming events. We promise you’ll have a really great time for a really good cause.

11th Annual Wine Auction Tickets On Sale Now

We’re excited to announce that this year’s Private Cellar Wine Tasting and Auction are now on sale. This year’s event will be on April 24, 2014 at the Shook, Hardy & Bacon Law Firm at 2555 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, Mo. 

Guests will enjoy a wide selection of wins to taste and bid on, while the fabulous food and atmosphere will make this an evening to remember. Not only will you have a good time, but you’ll be having fun for a good cause! Because of your support, hundred of Kansas City youth with disabilities will be able to enjoy the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City’s Prom. Those with developmental disabilities will be able to have the time of their life thanks to you!

Make it a night to remember for you and hundreds of people with developmental disabilities. Get your tickets to the 11th Annual Wine Auction today!