Hi, it's me again, Ali Marshall! Guess what...Buddy Walk time is here once again and it is time to Step up for Down Syndrome! This year I want to raise as much awareness as possible and get everyone in the spirit of joining my team.
I am 8 years old now and I have had an incredible year. I made my First Communion and went to the Selena Gomez concert. I am involved in Girl Scouts and dance , but more than anything I am just a girl who loves to have fun!!
Once again, we are participating in the Buddy Walk which helps raise money for First Downs for Down Syndrome. The funds raised assist in research and education and to promote awareness and inclusion for people with Down Syndrome. In the past eight years our team, Ali's Army, contributed approximately $80,000 towards this organization and our goal this year is $8,000.
Did you know that each year 5,000 babies are born with Down Syndrome and that there are over 400,000 individuals living with Down Syndrome in the United States?
These families depend heavily on local support organizations to receive information, resources and education. They also appreciate and benefit from ongoing advocacy and awareness efforts which improve the lives of entire families and communities.
Your participation in the walk shows you support inclusion and acceptance for people with Down syndrome and recognize their many gifts, talents and contributions to society. We envision a bright future with your help.
What difference can you make by Stepping Up?
* When you raise $100 you help DSG provide two families with hospital meal vouchers during extended hospital stays.
* When you raise $200 you help DSG provide a family experiencing a new diagnosis a welcome basket full of gifts and resources on Down syndrome.
* When you raise $250 you help DSG host a quarterly social activity for teens and adults with Down syndrome.
* When you raise $500 you help DSG host a quarterly support breakfast for parents and grandparents.
* When you raise $750 you help DSG provide conference scholarships to educators and professionals who support individuals with Down syndrome.
* When you raise $1000 you help DSG publish an issue of our award winning Connections Newsletter.
SO...ARE YOU AS EXCITED AS I AM NOW??
ALL YOU NEED TO DO TO JOIN MY TEAM IS CLICK ON ALI'S ARMY AND WALK FOR ALI'S ARMY. FOLLOW THE PROMPTS AND IT WILL WALK YOU THROUGH.
IF YOU ARE JOINING THE TEAM THE DEADLINE IS October 21st BY 10:00 pm IN ORDER TO GET OUR TEAM NAME ON THE SHIRT!!
Never forget that your fundraising efforts truly change lives. If you can't make the walk, making a donation to the team is simple; just click on the "Donation to the ##ALI'S ARMY##" link. We appreciate all donations as well!
My parents say I am like a butterfly in the wind...Some fly higher than others; But each one flies the best it can. We are all different, we are all special and we are all beautiful!! I don't have a disability..I have the ability to bring special people together and that is what all of you are who continue to support me and my foundation...SPECIAL!!!
We look forward to seeing you at the annual Buddy Walk on October 29th!! Please contact my Mom, Nicole Marshall at 816-863-3980 if you have any questions!!
Thank you and God Bless!!
Ali & family
(Maggie, Nicole & John)