“Going into this camp, I thought social justice was only about helping people who can’t help themselves…but I learned that it is so much more. In order to create social justice, we have to start with ourselves.” – James, 2016 Social Justice Youth Summer Camp Participant

There were many false starts as she remembered the tricks she’d learned, and remembered to trust her mother, but in time we made it to the park. And let me tell you, that was one proud little girl.

For the first time in Oregon, individuals with intellectual disabilities will have access to an inclusive post-secondary education at a four-year university.

In the end Down syndrome doesn't define our daughter nor does it define us as parents.

When she was just 11, Katie said to her mom over breakfast one morning, “Mom, I want to go to high school, then college, get a job, and have a wedding.”

We are all different races, sizes and ages but a community is one big family.

This is truly a grassroots effort to fund this 4-year old amazing program.

The 2014 conference drew over 450 people, ranging from parents of a 4 month old baby with Down syndrome to the head of Special Ed for Portland Public Schools, from self-advocates to grandparents, all enjoying an inspiring and educational day.

Thanks to everyone who helped out at the Burgerville Fundraiser for the Reciprocal Learning Community.

Six mothers present themselves dutifully on the first day in class. Four care for children with Down syndrome, two for children with other developmental disabilities. They’re nervous, unsure if they want their stories out in the world.

Before I tell you about myself and things I like to do; I want to say thank you to my family and friends for all of the love and help they give me.

In case you don’t know I have Down syndrome. In some ways it makes me different than other people which I think is interesting. In a lot of ways I am the same as you - I like who I am and I like learning with my friends. I consider myself funny, smart, creative in art and friendly.