Celebrating our members, volunteers and friends is one of our favorite events of the year.

These awards give us a chance to thank some of the many people who make what we do possible and to thank those in the community making a difference for people with disabilities.

If you know of someone you feel deserves an award for outstanding effort and support of people with disabilities, please complete a nomination form for that person. Nomination forms can be picked up at The Arc of Mower County office or downloaded from our website at www.arcmowercounty.org. I have extended the deadline to Friday, May 13, 2011.

Introducing the

Down Syndrome Connection

You probably have a number of questions about Down syndrome, and your child’s health and development. The Down Syndrome Connection is here to help parents navigate the sometimes murky waters of parenting a child with Down syndrome. We strive to provide the most up-to-date information and resources to help you educate yourself.

Most of all, we want you to remember that you are not alone. There will be many challenges, but they will be accompanied by great joy. The Down Syndrome Connection is a network of families at your fingertips who are ready to offer encouragement, personal experience and a sympathetic ear when you are facing difficulty.

This may not be the journey you were expecting, but it will be an exciting journey nonetheless. Raising a child with Down syndrome is both challenging and exciting.

Join The Arc on Tuesday, June 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. for a night of pizza, games, crafts and fun with the family. There is no cost to attend, however you need to register by Thursday, June 23, so we can plan for food and crafts by contacting Jamey Helgeson at (507) 433-8994, Extension 102 or jamey.helgeson@arcmowercounty.org.

Upcoming Events

Download our current newsletter at www.arcmowercounty.org for a complete list of activities and events.

• Monday: Unified kickball begins

• Thursday: Special Olympics softball begins

• Saturday: Adopt-A-Highway, 9 a.m. to noon

• May 24: 59th Annual Meeting and Awards with special guest Steve Larson, Public Policy Director from The Arc Minnesota