Lucky Me!

At our March Youth Self Advocacy meeting, we discussed attitudes and the ways we can demonstrate positive, respectful attitudes in the community. To embrace this concept, we thought we should do a community project to help others and demonstrate our compassion and strong abilities. There were many suggestions and we will decide on our first project at our April meeting. Your input is greatly appreciated!

We also celebrated St. Patrick's Day and discussed all the many ways we are LUCKY! We shared our ideas and created one large poster. Suggested blessings ranged from having wonderful friends and family to respect and independence in the community...and much, much more!

Everyone also made fun and colorful posters to take home and continue the "lucky" celebration. And of course, a St. Patrick's Day party wouldn't be complete without some yummy cupcakes. Thanks everyone for coming...so much fun!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Date Change for March Meeting

Please note that our next Youth Self Advocacy meeting will be held on March 13th (not the 7th) from 10am-12pm. We look forward to seeing you there...and why not invite a friend to join you? We would love to strengthen our group with more ideas and discussions!

Thanks! Amy

Spread the Word to End the Word

To learn more about this exciting campaign to end the "r" word, please visit: Spread the Word to End the Word.

Advocacy and Crafts

What a wonderful meeting on Saturday!

The Youth Self Advocacy Group studied and discussed the importance of advocacy in the political process. Then we followed with Valentine's Day crafts and treats. Thank you everyone for joining us!

Amy reviewed the YSA blog with the group. Please send in your poems, stories and photos - we are excited to show off your great talents.













We enjoyed talking and catching up with one another.














Everyone did an amazing job with their Valentine's Day cards. WOW!

Upcoming YSA Meeting / Valentine's Day Celebration!

Saturday, February 6, 2010 is our next meeting for our Youth Self Advocacy Group.

Not only will we be learning and practicing valuable advocacy skills, but we also will be celebrating Valentine's Day with fun crafts and treats!

Come join the fun!
10am - 12pm
February 6, 2010
The Dan Godwin Community Center
360-715-0170

Thank you Susan!

At our 2009 Holiday Party, we also had the opportunity to celebrate Susan Jewell's amazing leadership and dedication to The Arc of Whatcom County. After years of serving as The Arc's Executive Director, Susan is retiring. Fortunately she will continue to be actively involved as a consultant. Thank you Susan for all that you have done for our organization and our families!

DsO Buddy Walk!

Are you excited about next Saturday? We certainly are...it's the annual Down syndrome Outreach Buddy Walk!

Whether you have Down syndrome, know someone who does, or just want to show your support, come and join the Buddy Walk. Anyone can be a buddy!

The event is being held at Maritime Heritage Park in Bellingham, WA and will include lots of FUN! Please call 360-715-0170 for more information.

See you Saturday!