LAS VEGAS – Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN), the leading nonprofit organization and primary source of education, information, and support for Southern Nevada families impacted by Down syndrome, will honor Governor Joe Lombardo at the 35th Annual Festival of Trees & Lights gala at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. The two-day spectacular starts November 25 with a free family viewing event and concludes November 26 with a formal gala.
Governor Lombardo is being honored for his support of the disability community with the recent signings of Assembly Bill 116, the Down Syndrome Information Act, and Assembly Bill 259, which prohibits paying people with disabilities sub-minimum wages.
“For the past 35 years, we’ve recognized and thanked various community members for their unwavering support for individuals with Down syndrome,” said Peter Whittingham, Chairman of the DSOSN Board of Directors. “Being able to honor Governor Lombardo at this year’s festival is an honor, especially with his recent signings of Assembly Bill 116, the Down Syndrome Information Act, and Assembly Bill 259, which prohibits paying people with disabilities sub-minimum wages. Both bills will not only impact our current members, treating and paying them equally but will also help future families by providing them with resources and support when their child is given a Down syndrome diagnosis at birth.”
Started in 1988 by DSOSN’s founding members, the holiday tradition brings the Las Vegas community, DSOSN members, and families together for a weekend of giving and celebration in support of DSOSN and its programs. Over 30 decorated trees, wreaths, and holiday gifts – donated by various community members, groups, and organizations – will decorate the Westgate’s ballrooms and be available for bidding through an online auction.
Family Viewing Event – Saturday, November 25, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Open to the public, the Festival of Trees & Lights family viewing event is a free community event where guests have a chance to view and begin bidding on the decorated trees, wreaths, and gifts on display for auction. Families can also enjoy light refreshments provided by Westgate Las Vegas as well as photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Grand Gala – Sunday, November 26 at 5:30 p.m.
DSOSN and the community will reunite for the Festival’s Grand Gala where Governor Lombardo will be honored for his continued support of those with disabilities, including his recent signage of Assembly Bill 116 (the Down Syndrome Information Act) and Assembly Bill 259 (prohibiting paying people with disabilities sub-minimum wages). The gala, which is black-tie optional, starts at 5:30 p.m. and consists of a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions hosted by celebrity auctioneer Christian Kolberg, a multi-course gourmet meal, recognition and awards, entertainment including a special performance by DSOSN’s Dance Troupe in collaboration with Straight Up Abilities, dancing, and a champagne toast.
The annual Festival of Trees & Lights gala is vital to DSOSN’s fundraising efforts and expansion of the organization’s programs and services. Proceeds raised will directly support the organization’s new facility and programming, which includes visual and performing arts, job training and placement, reading and public speaking, American Sign Language classes, a computer lab, music therapy, sports and recreation, social events, and more.
Individual gala tickets are available for $250 or $2,000 for a table of 10. Sponsorship opportunities are available starting at $5,000, and advertising opportunities begin at $250. To purchase tickets or learn more about the Festival of Trees & Lights, visit https://www.dsosn.org/festival-of-trees-and-lights. Those interested in becoming a tree designer can contact Shelly Rhodes, the Festival’s tree and wreath committee chair, at gaccrhodes@aol.com.
