Ian, an energetic 18 year old with Down syndrome, and his mom Lisa travel to speak to schools, businesses and organizations. Their genuine and candid presence will open your eyes to the possibilities that lie in every individual, especially those with superpowers (a.k.a Down syndrome).
Our Mission
Increase awareness about the importance of seeing everyone’s strengths and embracing their differences.
Recent Speaking Engagements
Augsburg College, Minneapolis, MN
Every year since Ian was one year old, he and his family have conveyed their story with college students at Augsburg College in the Twin Cities. Ian and his family spend an hour sharing about the impact of Down syndrome on our lives. They tailor the presentation to resonate with individua
ls aspiring to champion the cause of individuals with special needs, whether children or adults who have disabilities.
Testimonial
“The Witt family presentations over the past double digit years to the Introduction to Developmental/Adapted Physical Education class at Augsburg University were beyond phenomenal! Their presentation was informational, educational, interactive, entertaining (humor is injected where appropriate), but most importantly, candid. Any and all questions and/or comments were highly encouraged. They were very comfortable sharing the triumphs and challenges of raising a child with Down Syndrome. The experiences shared by the Witts, highlighted that one should never assume what a student’s/person’s abilities and/or limitations are. Their presentation is truly an open book.
A common student theme in response to the Witt family presenting to Augsburg physical education majors was, “Favorite day of the course!” Students frequently commented on the presentation making an impact on them not only as future educators but also on a personal level. The addition of Ian showcasing his life experiences via PowerPoint has made the presentation even more real. One student commented, “Regardless of disability he is your typical teenager. Never experienced this so close so was ignorant” And a final comment from an Augsburg student, “Lisa, Chad and Ian have been some of the most memorable guest speakers that I’ve had a chance to interact with” (Augsburg University Emerita Health and Physical Education Faculty)
New Richmond Middle School, New Richmond, WI
Ian devoted a full day to engaging with a cohort of 130 seventh-grade students. He delivered his presentation across five sections of Literature classes, in addition he actively participated in social interactions with the students during their lunch break, accompanied them to their respective classes, and orchestrated a lively dance off to showcase his moves.
Testimonials
“Ian and Mrs. Witt’s presentation teaches students about Down syndrome in a more fun, personalized manner that wouldn’t be found anywhere else. It’s unlikely anybody here would experience anything similar any time soon. Education on people different from “normal people” can also reduce bullying and bigotry towards people in marginalized groups because it teaches people about what it is and what it means.” (7th Grade Student)
“Thank you so much for sharing your son with the students. When I picked him up Tuesday, he started telling me about Literature class and your son being there and he talked about it the whole way home! It was amazing to hear him talk like this, and be so enthusiastic about something. Also, a huge Thank you to Ian for being brave enough to talk and present in front of all those kids. It’s a great message and was truly an inspiring experience for them.” (Father of a middle school student)
E P Rock Elementary, Hudson, WI
Ian spent a whirlwind hour presenting to three classes of 4th graders in their media center. The session concluded with Q & A and of course, a bottle flip contest! The students expressed their enthusiastic support for both Ian and the other participants through applause and a unified chant.
Testimonial
“I liked how the presentation was relatable for the kids to see how Ian is just like them. Ian did a great job asking questions to them to keep their engagement. Having the kids hold up two fingers and then three for the chromosomes was a great visual for the students. Showing Ian’s jobs was a great slide to share with the students.” (4th Grade teacher)
Hudson Daybreak Rotary Hudson WI
Ian & Lisa were invited to speak to a room full of amazing rotarians from the Hudson community. They were honored to be able to share a bit of their story with individuals who give so much of their time and energy into making the small town of Hudson an amazing place to live. Lisa enlightened the group about Down syndrome and then Ian took over as he shared about his life and most importantly how the community of Hudson has embraced him over the past 18 years. He highlighted everything from Respect Choir and Rhinestone Raiders. inclusive groups at his high school, to local employers being open to employ him, such that he is able to learn new skills and make some money on the side. After his presentation Ian walked around, shaking hands and saying thank you for the invite.
Testimonial
“Lisa and Ian gave a wonderful presentation highlighting Ian’s charming personality, educating the audience on Ian’s ‘superpowers’, all woven together with a lot of humor! It was a delightful presentation and they were given a standing ovation!” (Rotary Member)
What’s Covered
- A brief overview of chromosomes and Down syndrome.
- Ian’s personal perspective on living with Down syndrome.
- Ian’s significant contributions to his community, school, and home life.
- Challenges and rewards associated with raising Ian, from a parent’s viewpoint.
- Advocating for increased opportunities for individuals with special needs.
- A candid discussion about just how much words matter.
- World Down Syndrome Day!
*A meet and greet with Ian is available before or after a presentation.
Our Objectives
- Raising awareness that individuals like Ian, who have Down syndrome, possess capabilities and attributes just like anyone else.
- Highlighting how Ian and others with any superpower, can live full lives which include: participating in sports, school and the workforce.
- Fostering an informed understanding of the characteristics, challenges, and the potential of people with Down syndrome.
- Enlightening individuals about the array of careers available working with individuals with any type of learning and/or physical challenges.
- Creating a safe environment for meeting Ian, such that all of us will be better equipped to communicate with people like him in the future.
- Emphasizing the impact of language choices on the perceptions of and attitudes towards individuals with challenges. We are focusing on respectful and inclusive language.
Video: Lisa sharing about Down syndrome
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*We would be happy to create a personal presentation tailored to the needs of your audience, budget and timeframe.
