Record Funds Raised During Annual Step Up for Down Syndrome

DENVER, Oct. 4, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Mile High Down Syndrome Association (MHDSA) broke records for the number of walkers and amount raised at last Sunday's 16^th Step Up for Down Syndrome walk in City Park. Over 4,200 families and friends who participated in the walk, organized by MHDSA helped raised a record $280,000, propelling the association in the top three walk fundraisers in the nation for the second year in a row.

Mac Macsovits, executive director of MHDSA was appreciative of the community support: "With the continued support of the community, we managed to once again break the records for the amount of money raised and for the amount of participants. It shows that people care about our children with Down syndrome and that they believe in our programs."

The Step Up for Down Syndrome walk featured a live performance by local band Mr. Harlan's Amazing BlueGrass Tonic Band and great family-fun activities: face painting, games, arts & crafts, and more.

The Walk welcomed participants of all ages and it featured an inaugural Talent Show, which showcased a multitude of talents. The Show included a total of ten dance, singing and martial arts performances by self-advocates.

The 2012 Step Up for Down Syndrome walk attracted the support of key sponsors including Anadarko, Macy's, Nelnet, Anna and John J. Sie Foundation, Brownstein, Hyatt, Farber & Schreck and ARC Thrift Stores.

For 31 years, MHDSA has been serving Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, providing support to expectant parents, family members and caregivers of children with Down syndrome.  MHDSA coordinates new parent visits, hosts community support groups, works with 8 school districts (representing over 300,000 students) and offers educational programs to parents, self-advocates, and caregivers. Recently, MHDSA added the ALIVE! program, a life skills program specifically designated to adults with Down syndrome.

Down syndrome is the most frequently occurring genetic chromosomal disorder in the United States accounting for 1 in 691 live births.  There are more than 400,000 people in the US and millions worldwide with the condition. 

About Mile High Down Syndrome Association
Mile High Down Syndrome Association (MHDSA) serves people living in Colorado and the Rocky mountain region with Down syndrome, as they strive to live independent and empowered lives. MHDSA provides Colorado families and caregivers with information, tools and resources to support children and family members with Down syndrome. An integral part of our missionis raising awareness and education about Down syndrome at the state and national level.

Contact: Mac Macsovits
(303)756-6069 or [email protected]

SOURCE Mile High Down Syndrome Association