Nearly six years ago, we had our world abruptly changed when our son, Joey, was born with Down syndrome. What seemed really scary at first has turned into one of the biggest blessings we could ever imagine.

Neither of us had ever done fund-raising or event planning, but the birth of Joey compelled us to create the 1 st Annual Joey Hebert Classic (JHC) for Down Syndrome Golf Tournament.   The golf tournament, dinner, and silent auction provided a way to bring our family, friends, and others in the community together to celebrate Joey, help build awareness and raise money for Down syndrome.

Now in its fifth year, the JHC has sold out each year with 144 golfers participating and over 100 additional supporters attending the dinner and silent auction. The Classic has raised an amazing $180,000 – all proceeds have gone directly to the Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota (DSAM). The JHC has become the second largest fundraiser for DSAM in its four short years!    This year's tournament will be held on Monday, August 1 st at Deer Run Golf Club in Victoria, MN.  

The money raised by the JHC has enabled DSAM to:

• Help fund DSAM's yearly Educator and Grandparent conferences.
• Help fund the annual conference for youth and adults with Down syndrome.
• Help create the first-ever Adult Matters conference for parents and professionals.
• Help create the self-advocate-driven Travel Club.

JHC has allowed DSAM to greatly expand upon the original vision for these conferences, by helping to fund national expert speakers on Down syndrome, as well as keep the costs down for families, educators, and other professionals who work with and serve those with Down syndrome.

The DSAM is the only organization in the region focused exclusively on meeting the specific needs of people with Down syndrome and their families. DSAM resources help new and expectant parents and grandparents deal with the shock and challenges of having a child born with Down syndrome. The annual statewide conferences provide education and resources for people with Down syndrome and to educators and medical professional assisting people with Down syndrome.

With your help, we can continue to bring awareness to Down syndrome and help adults and young people with Down syndrome live fulfilled and more independent lives.

We thank you for your generous support!

On behalf of Joey,

Alvin, Colleen, Chloe, and Harper Hebert