DSACO: Up for Discussion

Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Non-Profit

Welcome to DSACO: Up for Discussion, the official podcast of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma! This podcast is a space for real conversations about all things Down syndrome. Whether you're a parent, self-advocate, sibling, educator, healthcare professional, or just someone who wants to learn more, we’re here to share stories, resources, and expert insights to educate, inspire, and connect our community. From navigating a new diagnosis to advocating for inclusion, we’ll explore important topics, answer your questions, and celebrate the incredible individuals who make our community stronger every day. Join us for meaningful discussions, heartfelt stories, and practical advice—because together, we can create a more inclusive world. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation! Have a topic or question? Reach out at info@dsaco.org or visit dsaco.org. Let’s get Up for Discussion!

  1. 3d ago

    We Wouldn't Change A Thing

    What would you tell yourself on the day you learned your child had Down syndrome? In this heartfelt episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, host Sarah Soell welcomes fellow moms for a conversation about raising children with Down syndrome, finding community, and how their expectations have changed over the past two decades. Together, they reflect on early fears, meaningful friendships, and the moments their children challenged assumptions about what was possible. They also explore what “We Wouldn’t Change a Thing” means while acknowledging challenges and advocating for greater opportunities. In this episode: Looking back on diagnosis day and offering encouragement to new parents.Celebrating each child’s personality, passions, and dreams.Growing alongside DSACO through childhood, school, and adulthood.Challenging stigma, low expectations, and barriers to inclusion.Looking ahead to a future with greater belonging and independence.Whether you’re a new parent, a longtime advocate, or someone wanting to better understand Down syndrome, this conversation offers connection, perspective, and hope. For Down syndrome resources, programs, and support, visit dsaco.org.

    We Wouldn't Change A Thing

  2. Sep 21

    Where It All Began: 26 Years of DSACO's Buddy Walk

    Twenty-six years ago, a group of dedicated DSACO families and volunteers brought the first Buddy Walk to central Oklahoma. What began as a new community event has grown into one of DSACO’s most meaningful annual traditions. In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah speaks with members of the DSACO community who helped organize that very first walk. They reflect on how the idea began, the challenges of planning an event without social media, the community’s response, and the unforgettable moments that made the first Buddy Walk so special. Listeners will also hear how the original event’s mission—bringing families together, raising awareness, and promoting inclusion—continues through today’s Down Syndrome Festival & 5K. Join us as we celebrate the people who started this tradition and look ahead to this year’s Festival & 5K on September 26. Register, donate, or learn more at dsfestivaland5k.com. For additional information and resources, visit dsaco.org.

    Where It All Began: 26 Years of DSACO's Buddy Walk

  3. Sep 16

    Fundraising with Heart

    Fundraising with Heart: How Gentry’s Gems Rallies a Community In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, host Sarah Soell talks with Elizabeth Duren, leader of Gentry’s Gems, about fundraising for the Down Syndrome Festival & 5K. Gentry’s Gems has been a top fundraising team for the past several years. Elizabeth shares the heart behind the team, the importance of telling your story, and how family, friends, businesses, and community members can work together to support DSACO’s mission. Sarah and Elizabeth also discuss practical ways to begin fundraising, keep supporters engaged, celebrate progress, and help donors understand how their contributions support individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout the year. The Down Syndrome Festival & 5K takes place September 26, 2026. Register to walk, run, create or join a team, donate, and celebrate with us at dsfestivaland5k.com. For additional information and resources, visit dsaco.org.

    Fundraising with Heart

  4. Sep 3

    Run, Walk, Volunteer: Getting Ready for the Festival & 5K

    The 2026 Down Syndrome Festival & 5K is quickly approaching! In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, host Sarah Soell is joined by DSACO Program Coordinator Rylee Cole to share everything listeners need to know before the event on September 26. Rylee explains what makes the Festival & 5K such a meaningful celebration for DSACO families and the Central Oklahoma community. From the 5K and family activities to opportunities for connection and celebration, there is something for everyone—and you do not have to participate in the race to enjoy the festival! Sarah and Rylee also discuss the important role volunteers play in making the event possible. Listeners will learn about the different volunteer positions available, opportunities to help before, during, and after the festival, and what volunteers can expect after signing up. Whether you are volunteering individually or alongside your family, coworkers, school, or community group, no previous experience is necessary to make a difference. There are many ways to support the Festival & 5K. You can run, walk, volunteer, fundraise, or simply join us as we celebrate individuals with Down syndrome and promote inclusion throughout our community. Join DSACO on September 26! To register to walk, run, and celebrate—or to learn more about volunteering—visit dsfestivaland5k.com. For additional information and resources, visit dsaco.org.

    Run, Walk, Volunteer: Getting Ready for the Festival & 5K

  5. Aug 21

    Empowering the Next Generation of Self Advocates

    In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we sit down with Jen Randle to explore the Oklahoma Youth Leadership Forum, also known as YLF, and the important work of the Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma. YLF gives high school students with disabilities an opportunity to strengthen their leadership and self-advocacy skills, build confidence, explore life after high school, and connect with other young leaders. Jen shares what participants can expect from the program, who is eligible to apply, and the lasting impact these experiences can have on future independence and success. We also discuss the Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma, its role in creating positive systems change, and the resources and opportunities it provides for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Learn more: Youth Leadership Forum and application information: https://oklahoma.gov/ddco/projects/council-trainings/youth-leadership-forum.html Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma: https://oklahoma.gov/ddco.html Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma: https://www.dsaco.org Join us for the Down Syndrome Festival & 5K on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Myriad Botanical Gardens! Register, create a team, volunteer, or learn more at: https://www.dsfestivaland5k.com

    Empowering the Next Generation of Self Advocates

  6. Aug 3

    Advancing the Future of Down Syndrome: A Conversation with Michelle Sie Whitten

    In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, Sarah sits down with Michelle Sie Whitten, Co-Founder, President and CEO of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. Michelle shares how GLOBAL is advancing research, improving healthcare and advocating for individuals with Down syndrome. They discuss the NIH INCLUDE Project, promising areas of research, the work of the Linda Crnic Institute and the Anna and John J. Sie Center, and the resources available to families, self-advocates and professionals. They also look ahead at the future of Down syndrome research and explore how families can help create meaningful change in their communities. In this episode: The mission of the Global Down Syndrome FoundationWhy Down syndrome research mattersThe impact of the NIH INCLUDE ProjectAdvancements in healthcare across the lifespanResources and support available to familiesCurrent advocacy priorities and ways to get involvedHope for the future of the Down syndrome communityLearn more: Global Down Syndrome FoundationMichelle Sie WhittenNIH INCLUDE ProjectResearch and Medical Care ResourcesGLOBAL Medical Care Guidelines for Adults with Down SyndromeAAP Health Supervision for Children and Adolescents with Down SyndromeDSACO

    Advancing the Future of Down Syndrome: A Conversation with Michelle Sie Whitten

  7. Jul 21

    Empowering Every Voice

    Advocacy starts with one voice—but together, those voices create lasting change. In this episode of DSACO Up for Discussion, Sarah Soell sits down with Wanda Felty, Assistant Director and Community Leadership & Advocacy Coordinator at the Center for Learning and Leadership (CLL) at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, for an inspiring conversation about advocacy, leadership, and empowering individuals with disabilities and their families. Whether you're a parent just beginning your journey, a self-advocate, a professional, or someone passionate about inclusion, this episode is filled with practical advice, valuable resources, and encouragement to help you confidently navigate services and create meaningful change. In This Episode What advocacy really means—and why it mattersTips for navigating IEP meetings, healthcare, and disability servicesHow families can build confidence when speaking upThe importance of self-advocacy from childhood through adulthoodAn inside look at the Oklahoma LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities) programHow LEND develops future leaders, professionals, family advocates, and self-advocatesThe Guide to Community Services in Oklahoma and why it's an essential resource for familiesHow organizations can work together to create more inclusive communitiesAdvocacy at the policy level and how every voice can make a differencePreventing burnout while continuing to advocate for those you loveResources Mentioned • Oklahoma LEND Program: https://ouhsc.edu/thecenter/Projects/Training-and-Collaboration/OKLEND • Guide to Community Services in Oklahoma: https://ouhsc.edu/thecenter/Publications/Publication-Details/guide-to-community-services • Center for Learning and Leadership (CLL): https://ouhsc.edu/thecenter

    Empowering Every Voice

  8. Jul 3

    Protecting Children & Strengthening Families with Joe Dorman

    Every child deserves a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive. In this episode of DSACO: Up for Discussion, we're joined by Joe Dorman, CEO of the Child Advocacy Center, to discuss the vital work being done to protect children, support families, and strengthen communities across Oklahoma. Joe shares what child advocacy really means, the services the Child Advocacy Center provides, and how collaboration between organizations helps create better outcomes for children and families. We also talk about recognizing when a child may need support, common misconceptions about child advocacy, and ways community members can make a difference. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or community advocate, this conversation offers valuable insight into the importance of protecting and empowering children. In This Episode: The mission of the Child Advocacy CenterWhat child advocacy meansServices available for children and familiesCommon misconceptions about child advocacyThe importance of community partnershipsRecognizing when a child may need supportWays to get involved and make an impactWhat's next for the Child Advocacy CenterHelpful Links: Child Advocacy Center: https://cacok.com/ Register for the 2026 Down Syndrome Festival & 5K: https://dsfestivaland5k.com

    Protecting Children & Strengthening Families with Joe Dorman
See All (39)

About

Welcome to DSACO: Up for Discussion, the official podcast of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma! This podcast is a space for real conversations about all things Down syndrome. Whether you're a parent, self-advocate, sibling, educator, healthcare professional, or just someone who wants to learn more, we’re here to share stories, resources, and expert insights to educate, inspire, and connect our community. From navigating a new diagnosis to advocating for inclusion, we’ll explore important topics, answer your questions, and celebrate the incredible individuals who make our community stronger every day. Join us for meaningful discussions, heartfelt stories, and practical advice—because together, we can create a more inclusive world. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation! Have a topic or question? Reach out at info@dsaco.org or visit dsaco.org. Let’s get Up for Discussion!

Information

  • Creator
    Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma 2025
  • Show Website
    DSACO: Up for Discussion