Down syndrome support group in Iowa; down syndrome Iowa

Meet the Board of Directors

The Down Syndrome Association of North Central Iowa is managed by a volunteer Board of Directors. We rely on the time and expertise of parents, family members, professionals, and community members to provide a variety of programs that benefit people with Down syndrome of all ages in our communities.

President

Tenisha Benson

Mother of Kelsey

Hello, my name is Tenisha Benson. My three children and I live in Ventura, Ia. I work at Mercy-North Iowa in Human Resources. My children keep me very busy. Karson and Kelsey are my twins. Both have their own disabilities. Kelsey was born with Down Syndrome and Karson was later diagnosed with ADHD. They are involved in many school activities including football and basketball cheerleading, theater arts, and archery. In addition to school activities Karson works at McDonald's in Clear Lake and Kelsey works at Subway in Garner. Kortney enjoys volleyball, track and shopping. My goal is to educate others about Down Syndrome.

Secretary

Lorra Stiles

Mother of Emma

Vice-President

Julie Leininger

Grandmother of Kelsey

Treasurer

Ann Bailey

Mother of Tyler

Hi! My name is Ann Bailey. I have lived in Clear Lake since 2001. My husband, Todd and I have two sons. Brandon and Tyler, who has Down syndrome. I enjoy volunteering and being involved in the community. I am very passionate about our organization and excited to get families connected and see the difference we can make together.

Hello, my name is Lorra Stiles (a.k.a. Emma's Mom). I live in Nora Springs with my husband Keith. We have three children, Kelsey is loving life in Colorado while Emma and Nolan are still at home. Nolan loves baseball and Emma enjoys cheerleading. We stay busy going to sporting events and hanging out with family. It amazes me how often I get called Emma's mom! Emma was blessed with Down syndrome and it seems like everybody knows her everywhere we go!! I'm back helping the DSA of NCI as secretary along with volunteering with Boy Scouts and coaching Special Olympics.

At-Large

Debbie Werstein

Family Friend of Kelsey

Hello, my name is Debbie Werstein. My husband Jeff and I live in Mason City. Although, I do not have any children with Down syndrome I have had the pleasure of knowing a special little girl that does have Down syndrome that has always had a special place in my heart. She has taught me so much about life in general and I am truly blessed to have her in my life.