Taste of the Vine

An evening of wine tasting to promote
a lifetime of learning and health for adults
with Down syndrome

The second annual wine tasting held on July 26th at the home of Marsha and Barry Engel was a huge success! We had over 175 people in attendance, a great band, delicious food donated by the Samba Room, and a variety of wines donated by Redwood Cellars and Mayfair Liquors.

In addition, Jo Walsh and Dr. Dave Leon were presented with framed, signed poems by Gretchen Josephson to thank them for their many years of service to the Denver Adult Down Syndrome Clinic. Gretchen Josephson and Jamie Barth, self advocates who serve on the board of the Denver Adult Down Syndrome Clinic, shared their thoughts on serving on the board. Natalie Engel discussed her post secondary education program in Kentucky. Danny Frederick, Michael Waters and Heather McNamara, who are students in the ALIVE class, talked about their experiences taking this class at the University of Denver.

The event was chaired for the second year in a row by Molly DeCoursey and Cara George. Parents of new babies with Down syndrome as well as siblings and parents of adults with DS attended and shared experiences with one another. Adults with Down syndrome mingled, tasted wine and met new and old friends.

We are happy to report an increase in fundraising and attendance of 35% over last year. The increase in attendance means more people are aware of the Clinic and the increase in dollars raised means more opportunities for adults with Down syndrome.