Dear North Carolina Down syndrome community,
I hope this message finds you all in good health and spirits. It is with mixed emotions that I write to you today. For the past seven incredible years, it has been both my privilege and joy to serve as part of your community and lead the NCDSA (North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance). I have cherished every moment of this journey, and now I have some exciting news to share with you.
I have accepted a new opportunity with a national Down syndrome organization, and as a result, I will be passing on the torch of leadership at the NCDSA. This decision has not been made lightly, and it comes with a heart full of gratitude for your unwavering support, belief in my vision, and the financial assistance you’ve provided throughout these years.
During my tenure, I have had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable growth of our community. I’ve seen your children grow, overcome obstacles, and become productive adults who live independently and thrive in integrated and competitive employment. I’ve had the honor of standing beside many of you as a guide through life’s challenges. I’ve watched with immense pride as our Buddy Walk evolved into the incredible success it is today. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside dedicated board members, and I have full confidence that our board of directors will ensure a smooth and effective transition.
I want to express my deepest gratitude for welcoming me into your circle all those years ago. The impact you’ve had on my life is immeasurable. Leading the NCDSA and witnessing its growth has been an honor I will forever treasure. The friendships I’ve gained are invaluable, and I am confident that the legacy I leave behind will continue to flourish under new leadership. The NCDSA is still going strong, and I’m excited to witness the incredible journey it will continue on in the future.
So, this is not a final farewell, it is a “see you later.” I am excited to watch the continued success of the NCDSA and remain connected with this extraordinary community. Thank you for everything, and until we meet again, let us continue to work together to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Christina Reaves
Dear families, supporters, and friends of the NCDSA,
The Board of the North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance wishes to extend its deepest gratitude for the seven-plus years that Christina has been with us, most of those as Executive Director. Under Christina’s leadership, we have grown so much: from a regional to a statewide organization, from a small office to a bright and cheerful program space, and from a support system mostly helping new families into a source of advocacy, support, and empowerment for the lifespan of individuals with Down syndrome. Without a doubt, Christina has been a key factor in the success of NCDSA. Her relentless drive and passion have motivated, encouraged, and challenged us all to achieve more.
While it’s bittersweet to lose Christina as our Executive Director, we are thrilled to see her take the next step in her career. You, the community, have our assurance that this transition will be as seamless as possible. We’ve hired an Interim Director, Amy Van Bergen, whose decades of experience will keep operations running smoothly during the transition. Staff, programming, and advocacy efforts will carry on normally. The board has already begun the search for a new Executive Director and is excited about this new chapter for the organization.
We look forward to seeing you at the Triangle Buddy Walk on October 22, 2023, at Sugg Farm in Holly Springs, NC. This walk will be Christina’s last public event as Executive Director. We can’t think of a more fitting tribute to her time here than to help make this the largest and most successful Triangle Buddy Walk yet.
If you have any questions, comments, or feedback regarding the transition, we invite you to contact us at asktheboard@ncdsalliance.org.
Thank you, community members, and thank you, Christina!
The NCDSA Board of Directors
