Advocacy Program
The Advocacy Program began in 2021 led by self-advocate, and DSANV Board Member, Charlotte Woodward. The goal of the program is to help educate members on why advocacy is important and to introduce the many organizations engaged in disability advocacy in the National Capital Region.

The Advocacy Program is led by DSANV Board Member Charlotte Woodward.
Quarterly meetings are scheduled for March 16, June 22, September 21, and December 7.
March 16, 2023 – Anna Fedewa – Manager of Public Policy, NDSS.
July 21, 2022 Advocacy meeting notes with Rob Targos.
The first Advocacy Meeting took place on January 21.The guest speaker was Tonya Milling, the Executive Director of the Arc of Virginia and Director of the Arc’s Virginia Self-Advocacy Alliance. Here is a recording of the meeting.
Also, Tonya also provided a link that lets you join in on an online meeting with your state delegate.
Recording from the April 22 Advocacy Meeting.
Ashley Helsing, Director of Government Relations, and Nicole Patton, Manager of Grassroots Advocacy from NDSS, National Down Syndrome Society spoke about advocacy. Here is a link
Other items discussed during the meeting include:
Recording of Charlotte Woodward’s testimony before the VA State Senate.
NDSS Press Release for David Egan’s book, More Alike Than Different
Programs
Proposed Dates DADS (Dads appreciating Down syndrome) meetings 7:00 -9:00 PM September 21st (Thursday) October
In 2023, DSANV is continuing to offer three options for BINGO. The third Wednesday of
If you are an expectant parent or have been parenting your child with Down Syndrome
Apple Day – Sunday, September 24, 2023 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Come join is in
DSANV Events
Sunday October 1, 2023 Workhouse Art Center Register here
Community Events
Chipolte Fundraiser to benefit the 2023DSANV Buddy Walk®
CHIPOTLE FUNDRAISER FORDOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OFNORTHERN VIRGINIA33% OF EVENT SALES GET DONATED TO THE CAUSEMONDAY,
The Elder and Disability Law Clinic at the College of William and Mary is offering
Infant Brain Imaging Study Recruiting Participants
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Pozez JCC Northern Virginia – Fall Class Registrations
Dear all, I hope you had a fabulous summer and for those starting school, I
The Mason LIFE Program at George Mason University is an innovative post-secondary program for young
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September 2023 Newsletter
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