Generous Grant Funds Global’s Hollywood Ball

Alex Taleaga and Anna Stotts
Paige Bowling, Sara Stephenson, Ashley Poulson and Lauren Farrell
Felisha Hess and Amy Garcia
The Salah Foundation helps fund adult education programs including the Be Beautiful Be Yourself Hollywood Ball.
The fourth annual Be Beautiful Be Yourself Hollywood Ball “Gold & Glam” was held on Friday, June 12, 2015 in the elegant Grand Ballroom at the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Denver. Over 130 adults with Down syndrome and guests attended.
The Denver Post covered the event and noted, “When it comes to fundraising galas, the Global Down Syndrome Foundation seems to have the Midas touch. The smiles and the laughter of the young adults in attendance is enough to light up any room.”
The Salah Foundation grant has allowed Global to work with world-class researchers to create evidence-based educational programs for adults with Down syndrome in the areas of safety, health, nutrition, and communication and speech. The Hollywood Ball provides self-advocates with the opportunity to embrace physical activity and proper socialization skills in a safe and fun environment. The grant enabled Global to provide this high-quality event to a wide audience.
“Every year gets better and better. This is Alex’s favorite event and he counts the days every time,” said Remy Taleaga, Alex’s father. Guests, dressed in their best, enjoyed a glamorous night with dinner and dancing. Many self-advocates were styled and fitted at Global partner Nordstrom. This event is an opportunity to celebrate the beauty and brilliance of people with Down syndrome. Sara Stephenson raved, “My friends and I had a wonderful time, best dance of the year!”
“I didn’t really know what to expect when a friend of mine invited me to this event,” said Streeter McClure. “Now I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I dance all night and I have developed very close friendships. People with Down syndrome are absolutely more alike than different – in some ways they’re way more cool.”
The Salah Foundation is a private foundation that supports non-profit organizations in the United States that strengthen families and communities and advances individuals to become productive and responsible citizens. There is a special interest in education, medical research, community development and self-sufficiency programs aimed at the economically disadvantaged, the young, the elderly and the disabled.
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