--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global Down Syndrome Foundation:
WHAT
More than 25 models with Down syndrome—many from the DC region—will be putting on the Ritz at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation (Global) Be Beautiful Be Yourself Gala, a high-style fashion show and fundraiser taking place at the Ritz Carlton in DC The event features a performance by nine-time Grammy-winner Sheryl Crow, celebrities including CNN’s Kyra Phillips and Fox News’ John Roberts, and members of Congress. The gala is designed to raise awareness about Down syndrome and will honor Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Rep. Chris Van Hollen with the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award for their support of those with disabilities.
WHEN
Wednesday, May 8, 2013; 6:00 p.m. — Reception; 7:15 p.m. — Dinner, fashion show, live auction and Sheryl Crow performance
WHO
- Sheryl Crow, Grammy-award winning singer, songwriter, producer and actress
- 25 models with Down syndrome, escorted by celebrities
- Members of Congress including Reps. Mike Coffman, Ed Perlmutter, Dennis Ross, Brad Schneider, Pete Sessions, Greg Walden, Rob Wittman, and Charlie Dent, and dignitaries, including Madeleine Albright, former Secretary of State
- Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and her son Cole Rodgers, Event Ambassador
- Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD)
- Kyra Phillips, CNN, and Gala Emcee
- John Roberts, Fox News
- DeOndra Dixon, Global Ambassador (and Jamie Foxx’s sister)
- Beverly Johnson, Supermodel
- Michelle Sie Whitten, Executive Director, Global Down Syndrome Foundation
- Dr. Huntington Potter, leading researcher on connection between Alzheimer's and Down syndrome
- Dr. Tom Blumenthal, Executive Director, Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome
WHERE
Ritz-Carlton
1150 22nd Street N.W., DC
WHY
Down syndrome is the most frequent chromosomal condition affecting an estimated 400,000 Americans, but is the least funded genetic condition by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), securing only 0.0007 percent of NIH’s 2012 $31 billion budget. Global is focused on working with NIH, raising funds, and educating the public and leaders about the discrepancy in research funding for the condition, as well as the abilities and achievements of those with Down syndrome.
CONTACT
To cover the event, please contact Shawn Flaherty at 703-544-3609. To purchase tickets, visit www.globaldownsyndrome.org or call 703-683-7500.
