Supportive Networking
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Moms’ Night Out (MNO) is a Down Syndrome Network program for women who have a child with Down syndrome. MNO events create opportunities for mothers to gather with friends, share and connect, and foster friendships in a supportive and fun environment.
D.A.D.S. (Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome) provides a time and place for dads and other male caregivers of a loved one with Down syndrome to come together and support each other. The group has meetings each month to discuss aspects of Down syndrome, listen to speakers and talk about our kids.
Both the D.A.D.S. group and Moms Night Out group offer regular gatherings to connect with other parents.
Meet the Facilitator
Gonzalo Castaneda
Contact Mike: DADS@dsnetworkaz.org
Spark of Awesome
2026 Honorees
Every year, DSNetwork pays tribute to an outstanding group of honorees for their contributions made in our community toward the betterment of individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Meet the 2026 Spark of Awesome Mom and Dad of the year.
Therese Derivan chose to retire early so she could spend more time with her daughter, Sam. For Therese, retirement wasn’t about slowing down; it was about focusing on what matters most. In her retirement speech, she shared three plans for this next chapter: study Italian for an upcoming trip, spend more time exploring life with Sam – from surfing and acting to modeling and Spanish classes – and expand her advocacy for people with disabilities.
Together, Therese and Sam have traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet Arizona representatives and senators to discuss issues affecting the Down syndrome community. Their advocacy has included discussions on ending sub-minimum wage, addressing organ transplant discrimination, supporting Alzheimer’s research, expanding ABLE accounts, reducing asset limitations, and eliminating the marriage penalty. Closer to home, Therese works at the state level to improve the transition from high school to postsecondary education, employment, and independent living.
As the 2026 Spark of Awesome Mom of the Year, Therese represents the determination and vision that help move our community forward.
Raul Salcedo is a devoted father whose quiet strength, deep compassion, and commitment to service are reflected in the life he shares with his son, Adam.
When Raul and his wife, Rose, made the decision to adopt Adam at just three years old, they opened their hearts to a journey that would shape their family in extraordinary ways. Today, Adam is 19, and the bond between father and son is something many in our community have had the privilege to witness.
You will often find Raul and Adam side by side at the Down to Earth Garden on Sunday mornings, tending the garden together. For Raul, this time is about more than gardening; it’s about teaching, encouraging, and sharing meaningful moments with his son while connecting with others. Raul has also helped organize gatherings and outings so Adam and his friends can spend time together and build friendships that continue to flourish.
As an active member of the DADS group, Raul brings sincerity, humility, and encouragement to other fathers walking a similar path.
As the 2026 Spark of Awesome Dad of the Year, Raul represents the love, dedication, and servant heart taht strengthen our community.
Testimonials
What people are saying
I have fun with DSNetwork. And I hope this never ends. The programs they’ve provided, has brought me so much joy. It’s because of DSNetwork, that I’m such a big, big boy. While my dad goes to D.A.D.S. and, my mom to Moms’ Night Out, there’s so much information they both can learn about. Thank you DSNetwork, for all that you have done. It’s because of your great work, that I continue to have fun!
~ Adam, son of John and Lynn