Audrey Ballard, a 7-year-old Wellington resident with Down syndrome, was selected from more than 1,000 photo entries submitted from around the United States to appear in a video produced by the National Down Syndrome Society. The video presentation will be shown Sept. 21 on the “larger-than-life” MTV plasma screen located in the heart of Times Square. The Times Square video presentation kicks off Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October.
Kate Ballard commented about her daughter being chosen. “We are super excited and proud to have Audrey’s picture be in Times Square for everyone to see,” she said. “Sometimes there is a negative perception about Down syndrome, so we are happy to be a part of something positive that shows our beautiful daughter is just like any other kid.”
To recognize Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization will hold the 19th annual Buddy Walk on Sunday, Oct. 20 at John Prince Park from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event features a fun walk followed by a variety of children’s activities including a petting zoo, rock wall, bounce house, pony rides and more, with a silent auction and raffle for adults. Everyone is welcome to come enjoy a great morning. To register, visit www.goldcoastdownsyndrome.org and click on the Buddy Walk logo, contact Anne at ad.gcdso@bellsouth.net or call (561) 752-3383.
The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is a health, educational resource, support and advocacy organization, which has been empowering individuals with Down syndrome and their families since 1980. The organization supports the inclusion of persons who have Down syndrome in all areas of life as contributing and valued members of society.
The group provides current and positive information about Down syndrome to new parents, sponsors social opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages, provides parent training and educational advocacy, and strives to ensure that individuals with Down syndrome can grow up to live, learn, work and play in their community.
In 2012, the organization opened its first resource center and was also one of the first five national recipients of the Global Down Syndrome Educational Grants awarded for the Exceptional Educators Program, in partnership with the School District of Palm Beach County.
In 2010, Gold Coast received the National Down Syndrome Congress prestigious National Parent Group Award. Visit www.goldcoastdownsyndrome.org for more information.
ABOVE: Audrey Ballard will appear in a video presentation at Times Square.
