Hoover, Alabama (April 20, 2015) Ashley DeRamus of Hoover, Alabama was pleased to receive The National Down Syndrome Society NDSS Self-Advocate of the Year Champion of Change Award. NDSS self-advocates are volunteer advocates with Down syndrome who are committed to taking part in the democratic process and serve as liaisons between NDSS and their communities to continually raise awareness, educate and advocate for public policy solutions that benefit the Down syndrome community at the federal, local and community levels.
Ashley received the award at the Buddy Walk® on Washington, the annual NDSS advocacy event in Washington, DC. Over 150 people from across the country gathered to advocate for legislative priorities that positively impact the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families.
Ashley stated, “What can l say but thank you Congressman D Benishek of Michigan and NDSS for the great honor you gave me tonight and to all my special friends with Down syndrome.â€
Ms. DeRamus, is an entrepreneur, an advocate, a singer, a public speaker, a music video star and a fashion designer. Connie DeRamus, Ashley’s mother, assisted her in establishing The Ashley DeRamus Foundation, an organization founded for and dedicated to the education, advancement and quality of lifestyle for those with Down syndrome, in 2012. Ms. DeRamus has also been touring Inspirational Country, Southern Gospel and Bluegrass venues across the country in 2015. Ashley serves as an inspiration for many and lives by the motto, “Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do. Show them what you can do.â€
Award presenters included the Honorable Dan Benishek (R-MI), as well NDSS Board Members and staff.
You can learn more about Ashley DeRamus and the Ashley DeRamus Foundation by going http://ashleybydesign.com or https://www.facebook.com/
To contact Ashley for a special appearance E-mail adream.gk@gmail.com .
