Step Up For Down Syndrome Walk Features Inaugural Talent Show

DENVER, Aug. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- On Sunday, September 23rd, the Mile High Down Syndrome Association (MHDSA) will host its 16^th annual Step Up for Down Syndrome walk at Denver City Park. More than 4,000 people are expected to attend the event, which will raise critical funds needed to support programs and services for the over 6,000 people with Down syndrome living in Colorado and their families. Registration is now open on the MHDSA's website, www.StepUpDenver.org.

For the first time in the walk's history, MHDSA will feature a Talent Show for self-advocates, showcasing their skills and abilities. Auditions for the talent show will take place on Saturday, September 8^th, at Mullen High School, 3601 South Lowell Boulevard Denver, CO 80236. The talent show will feature ten acts and the judges will be independent with no direct ties to MHDSA or participants. To sign up for the talent show and the auditions, please contact [email protected].

"We are excited to 'step it up' a little at this year's walk and feature the beauty and talents of people with Down syndrome, in front of an audience of 4,000 people! The Step Up for Down Syndrome walk brings together the entire Rocky mountain region Down syndrome community: families, neighbors, coworkers and community partners who are touched by Down syndrome.  We ask you to put together a team and register today," stated Mac Macsovits, executive director of MHDSA.

For 31 years, Mile High Down Syndrome Association 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 24 school districts (representing hundreds of thousands of students) and offers educational programs to parents, self-advocates, and caregivers. Recently, MHDSA added the ALIVE! class, a life skills program designed for adults with Down syndrome to its program offerings.

The Step Up for Down Syndrome walk will feature 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 welcomes participants of all ages.

Also attending in this year's walk are: 2012 Miss Colorado Hannah Porter, local sports celebrities, mascots, and more.

The 2012 Step Up for Down Syndrome walk is attracting key sponsors including NelNet, Lamar Outdoor Denver, Brownstein Farber Hyatt Schreck, The Anna and John J. Sie Foundation, and more.

To register for this year's walk, or to make a donation, please visit www.StepUpDenver.org or call 303-797-1699.

About Mile High Down Syndrome Association
Mile High Down Syndrome Association (MHDSA) serves people living in Colorado 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 mission is raising awareness and education about Down syndrome at the state and national level.

Contact:
Mac Macsovits
Mile High Down Syndrome Association
303-797-1699
[email protected]

SOURCE Mile High Down Syndrome Association