Dripping with Kindness
bourbon and the backside
Tyler, Micheal, Jamia, Char- lie, Jenny, Erinn, Grace, and Sheridan are the talented artists representing Down Syndrome of Louisville’s Adult Development Academy, aka “The Academy.” They are students in Mrs. Willow’s art class. The Academy offers a full curriculum for adults with Down syndrome who have completed high school. The curriculum includes lit- eracy, math, computer skills, and elective subjects such as relationships, etiquette, art, music, safety, job readiness, basic health, fitness, nutri- tion, social engagement, and independent living skills. Down Syndrome of Louisville Operations Director Katie Zurkhulen says the organiza- tion is excited to participate in Bourbon with HeART. “It is a part of our mission to advocate for and educate our members. So the more we can get out in the community and show people their capabilities and just share their talents with the world is great.”
Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Darryl Montez Tucker is a Wellbeing Consultant for Humana and is married with four children, three of whom have autism. Darryl discovered his talent while attending a “paint and sip” with his wife and is excited by the challenge of creating his art piece on a bourbon barrel. His passion is finger painting, and he hopes to pursue a full-time art career one day. “Art is essential because it relaxes me and takes me to another space where I can express myself on canvas. Art is important to Louisville because it speaks to each person differently, and people respect that.” Darryl’s attention is drawn to the strength of each of his subjects. “I focus on each subject’s darks and lights and try to bring them out in my paintings.” If the public should vote for Darryl’s design as their favorite, he plans to support Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) of Louisville. FEAT of Louisville was created for families by families to support and fund autism programs for the entire family, including the Autism Friendly Business Initiative.
Down Syndrome of Louisville’s Adult Academy Class left to right, Tyler, Ms. Willow, Michael, Jamia, Charlie, Jenny, Executive Director Julie Torzewski
Katie is looking forward to the impact of showing the community that their adults are, in fact, adults. “They have relationships. They have jobs. Some of them live independently. And this just gives us another chance to share them.” Down Syndrome of Louisville serves over 1200 individuals in 24 surrounding Kentucky and Southern Indiana counties. For more information, visit dsoflou.org. Follow @ DownSyndromeofLouisville on Facebook and Instagram.
darryl montez tucker
barrel sponsored by:
barrel sponsored by:
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bourbonwithheart.org
bourbonwithheart.org
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