Children with Down syndrome are born with a medical diagnosis that will instantly create boundaries between themselves and much of the world. Their learning disabilities give them special needs while their slowed physical growth and characteristic features can make them prone to psychological and even physical abuse. The syndrome itself is the result of a chromosome abnormality that affects life expectancy through a higher chance of congenital heart disease, sleep apnea and epileptic seizures. Alzheimer’s type dementia and sensory disabilities are often present from birth.

While most children born with chronic illness only deal with a limited set of symptoms, those with Down syndrome are faced with a veritable locker full. This, together with their social challenges, means they are in particular need of an extreme, structured support system that teaches them how to integrate into the world on professional and social levels while learning to become their own advocates. The Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County offers those affected with a comprehensive range of services and programs aimed to unlock the hidden or stifled abilities of those with Down syndrome.

Potential

For a person with Down syndrome, good physical and mental health is an imperative goal to work towards but an unlikely one to achieve without coexisting support to improve other parts of living. For this and several other reasons, it becomes even more crucial to deal practically with all elements that can, realistically, allow individuals to gain quality of life in every area possible. Research in the science, politics and sociology worlds has constructed a series of ever-growing tools that are remarkably helpful in achieving that kind of life but families affected by Down syndrome cannot use them if they are not exposed to them.

Advocacy tools include disabilities acts, assistive technology, early intervention, appropriate public education and individualized family service plans. If the rights of individuals with Down syndrome are not accessible, no other form of assistance can succeed. Without competent professionals to play their role, the affected family struggles to remain strong. The Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County (DSNMC) builds and works towards providing in all these areas to offer resources to those in the Washington D.C. area.

Advocacy and Empowerment

From the moment parents learn that they are expecting a baby with Down syndrome, sadness and confusion tend to accompany all the joy that comes with the experience of pregnancy. Parents who are educated and supported early are better able to introduce their new baby into a calm, medically prepared and empowered home.

The DSNMC begins from the first diagnosis to work on every tier of need, ranging from special needs education to fun. The Washington D.C. area has a range of events for children, teens and adults with disabilities, creating space for social interactions and friendship-building in nonjudgmental atmospheres. Confidence building is the first step towards teaching self-advocacy, since self-worth and improved social skills are crucial components when facing intimidating scenarios. The DSNMC has a network of sleepover camps, therapeutic getaways and educational centers that build on the celebration of ability while teaching skills such as sensory integration and friendship. On a practical level, networks of legal and medical advocates, together with educators, help to complete the picture.

The Annual Buddy Walk

The sheer number of tools needed by people with Down syndrome and their families means fundraising is the crucial fuel that keeps affected families functioning on as many levels as possible. The DSNMC serves the broader Washington area, leaving it with an enormous number of families needing support.

The Annual Buddy Walk is the largest fundraising activity that helps the society to keep ticking. Nearly 100 percent of raised money is fed directly into the services and programs the DSNMC and National Down Syndrome Society provides. It also offers a wonderful opportunity to empower team members and individuals with Down syndrome by letting each team raise their own funds for the society. This not only creates a memorable annual celebration but also significant confidence-building and pride. Fundraisers who have not yet become integrated in a work environment learn lessons that will serve them long after the walk is over; not least of which is that they can, indeed, achieve great things.

According to the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University, 95.4 percent of households give to charity. That’s a tremendous amount of charitable giving, but it always feels as though we could do more. Countless charities in the area need help consistently to keep doing the wonderful work that they do. Here are some highlights of a few charities in the Washington, D.C., area to consider.

The Darrell Green Youth Foundation

In 1988 Darrell Green and his wife, Jewell founded the Youth Life Foundation in Washington, D.C. Darrell is a Football Hall of Fame inductee and former player for the Washington Redskins. He and his wife founded the Youth Life Foundation to help kids in the D.C. area who had family problems or not enough food or clothing and who lacked hope in the light of their circumstances. He wanted to set up a safe place where kids could see that there was, indeed, hope for their future and that they could succeed. Now, communities across the country benefit from the Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation.

The Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder in which someone has an extra copy of all or part of the twenty-first chromosome. This extra genetic material causes a host of problems developmentally. The Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County Maryland offers support to families of those who have the condition. Families and community members have access to information and education about the syndrome, as well as access to advocacy assistance.

St. James’ Children’s School

Established in 1993, the St. James’ Children’s School is a preschool owned by the St. James’ Episcopal Church. The school offers not only preschool and kindergarten classes, but also infant and toddler programs. The school curriculum includes music, Spanish lessons, Bible stories, and other educational lessons. Children are encouraged to learn about and to appreciate other cultures and religions, making the school a wellspring of community.

The Bobby Mitchell Golf Classic

For over twenty years, former Washington Redskins football player, Bobby Mitchell has hosted a Golf Classic to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. After a modest donation, ticket holders are able to watch their favorite sports celebrities from a variety of different sporting backgrounds play golf. Proceeds help the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to pay for research to stop this ailment, which is one of the largest causes of death for children. Spectators are able to take pictures with celebrities and enter contests and raffles, all for a great cause.

The next time that you have some extra time or some extra funds, consider one of these local charities. Some offer assistance on a national level, but the majority of the funding stays right here in our area. Whether you give your money, time or expertise, the local community will be appreciative of your efforts.

Basketball is a lot of fun to watch and equally entertaining to play recreationally but, unless you are near seven-feet tall, chances are you won’t be able to make a career out of playing. Even the smallest players on the court, the guards, are usually well above six-feet tall. Just because you can’t be out on the court doesn’t mean you can’t be part of the sport, however. There is a lot more to basketball than just what you see on television or from your ringside seat, and with the right qualifications, there are plenty of career opportunities. Unless you plan on donning a mascot suit and entertaining the crowds, you will have to work towards your qualification, though. You might not be out on the court shooting hoops, but you will still be working in a field related to the sport.

Administrative Careers

You will find the same kind of administrative jobs in the basketball field as in any other business, as it takes a lot of behind the scenes work to keep the sport growing. Everything from lawyers, accountants, general managers and travel coordinators right down to security is needed. With the right qualifications and a healthy dose of passion, you’ll be sure to find something that matches your talents. Being an accountant or travel coordinator might not be as glamorous as being an NBA superstar, but there is the satisfaction of knowing that your job is vital to the success and well-being of the players.

Media Careers

Basketball fans love to watch the game, read about the game and learn more about their favorite players. Entering into a career in the media can make you the person that provides them with everything they want to know. There are plenty of media outlets in both broadcast and print that provide basketball coverage, and working in this area will allow you to put your knowledge and passion for the game to good use. The list of media careers in the basketball sector is almost too many to mention, but includes everything from directors, producers and editors to statisticians and more.

Sports Agent Careers

If you want to get up close and personal with the players and the game, becoming a sports agent might be just what you are looking for. You will need excellent negotiating skills and probably a background in marketing as well as communications if you want to work in this competitive career. If you are really passionate about the game, it is worth it, as you will be able to directly affect the careers of your clients and they could reach greater heights through your expertise.

Don’t Be Discouraged

The three fields listed here barely scratch the surface when it comes to careers in the basketball industry, but it proves that you can still be a part of the sport you love, no matter what your talents are. You might have to pay your dues and work your way up before you get to the big leagues. But if you are committed to the sport, you’re likely to enjoy every minute of it.

Dribbling down the court and taking a three-point shot can be a thrilling experience, especially if the shot goes in. But no one picks up the game overnight. Instead, those with real skills spend lots of time on the court practicing the fundamentals. As a beginner, it can seem like basketball success is a long way off. Here are five tips any player can use to improve their game.

Become a Spectator

It might be hard to believe but watching basketball can help a person improve. Seeing the mistakes and successes that others experience can be a real learning opportunity. After watching certain moves being made, it helps to head out to the court and try them out. They aren’t going to be perfect with the first attempt, but these types of moves will come more naturally over time. Watching games, whether on TV or at a local court, also gives a spectator an overview of the game. It is easy to see the whole court and all the players to find out how to successfully move without the ball.

Spend More Time With a Basketball in Hand

Dribble, dribble, dribble: New and experienced players can always benefit from carrying around and dribbling a ball. It helps to get a feel for how the ball moves and how it feels to bounce it around. Different surfaces are going to create a different bounce. The more comfortable a person feels with the basketball in hand, the better they will be able to move on the court while dribbling.

Move Closer When Shooting

Instead of busting out a shot at the three-point line, consider moving closer to the basket to shoot around. This helps a player get the right form and also instills confidence as more shots go in. Gradually move out and continue shooting. Just like dribbling, it is impossible to shoot too much while practicing.

Join a Game

Doing drills alone can be tiring and become boring. When an opportunity to play becomes available, players should jump at the chance. From a three on three game at lunch time to a full court scrimmage in the evening, getting in the game will help with the skills and the overall knowledge necessary to play the game. These games are the places to make mistakes and learn from them. At the same time, keep an eye on the other players to see how they handle the game.

Defend With the Body, Not the Feet

Defense is one of the most important parts of the game. Often overlooked, it isn’t something that gets a lot of attention. However, players looking to improve their overall game or even just their offense should consider intensifying their defense. This means avoiding depending on the hands to stop the ball but using the body to stop the player. Fast feet work a person into position to stop the ball and force a player to pass or take a shot.

Whenever someone begins to lose focus, effectiveness and productivity at work, it’s time to unwind. Despite appearances that people thrive on stress in the 21st century, it’s detrimental to everyone. Part of that stress comes from being away from one’s family for extended periods, so it’s a good idea to relieve any built-up stress by doing something relaxing with the family. Working out allows people to channel their emotions and feelings into endorphin-producing physical activities like weightlifting, running, swimming, or playing basketball or tennis. If one can bond with family over the shared experiences, so much the better.

There are few places in the world more beautiful than a well-constructed golf course. Lush fairways and perfectly manicured greens accentuate the feeling of nature one gets strolling among the trees and waterways that dot today’s courses as hazards to the game. At some courses, the roar of ocean surf is a comforting, relaxing backdrop. At others, cool mountain air and the song of wild birds accompany golfers.

To get started, a prospective duffer will need clubs, shoes, tees and golf balls. Specialized shoes are necessary to help keep one’s feet firmly planted when swinging. Without them, neophytes might easily injure themselves. For a true beginner, the clubs and balls should be of good quality, but there is no need for top-of-the-line equipment. If they can afford it, brand-new golfers should take a couple of lessons to learn the proper swing. Nothing is quite as embarrassing as swinging and missing a golf ball a dozen times before tipping it eight feet down the fairway with the 13th stroke. Of course, beginners will have their problems, but many of them can be avoided with a few, simple pointers.

Learning golf together can be a fantastic team-building experience as friends and colleagues share a few good laughs at the miscues, high-five each others’ successes, and give each participant chances to help each other succeed. The learned skills go far beyond hitting the green in two or draining a 30-foot putt, and the forged relationships can last a lifetime. These new friends and business partners will open up new avenues of networking which, in turn, will provide new opportunities. Even if someone never gets his or her handicap into single digits, learning to play golf just makes good sense.

Alex Perdikis, owner of the Koons of Silver Spring car dealership, finds time to appreciate his Greek heritage. He and his family understand the draw of visiting Greece to explore their European roots. Greece itself offers everything from spectacular beaches on the Aegean Sea to stately ruins that hark back to the very roots of democracy itself. Sports enthusiasts, like the Perdikis family, can enjoy everything from soccer matches to track-and-field competitions in the country’s Olympic stadia. Those travelers just looking to relax can find more than 700 spas and hot springs in which to relax.

Perdikis’ father was in the Greek diplomatic corps, and he built a love of Greece in his son. Born in 1975, Perdikis started life during a time of great upheaval in his homeland. A right-wing, military junta had just been deposed six months before his birth, and Alex’s father was an important man in developing relations with the United States. Because Greece was a crucial member of NATO, and on the front line against the Eastern Bloc, the United States had supported brutal, right-wing governments that were pro-U.S. ever since the Truman administration. The U.S. had also backed the military junta, so diplomacy during a time of re-establishing democracy and trying the members of the junta for their crimes was paramount.

Alex Perdikis learned much from his father in the ways of resolving conflict and has applied those lessons to managing his business. Not only has such knowledge given him a leg up in handling potential problems occurring in his staff, but it has also allowed him to resolve almost every problem his customers have. Indeed, conflict resolution has been, arguably, the most essential skill Alex Perdikis has had at Koons during his tenure. Using that skill, he has led his dealerships to 9-figure annual sales totals, awards and recognition for superb customer service and secure, well-respected places in the community as bastions of integrity.

During the entire time Alex Perdikis has been at Koons, he has both supported nearly two dozen charities. Chief among these is the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Perdikis has been chosen as a man-of-the-year candidate for the organization in 2014. The specter of cancer has hit close to home for Perdikis because it has affected his wife in the past.

In addition to his work with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Perdikis has been involved with a diverse assortment of other organizations. He has supported cancer research through the American Cancer Society; high-school and college sports through the athletic foundations of Georgetown Prep and the University of Richmond; and the development of critical-thinking skills and citizenship through the Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation. Because of these affiliations, Perdikis supports not only saving lives but also enriching those lives saved. The Ancient Greeks considered philanthropy to be the civic duty of every well-educated citizen and stressed the importance of making it a habit to be productively beneficial to the human race. This love of humanity is one of the most meaningful contributions of Greek culture to have survived through the Dark Ages, Middle Ages, Renaissance and Enlightenment into the modern world.