Press Releases
Arc's Sibling Alliance Conference Nov. 1 in St. Paul Features Filmmaker Jennifer Owensby
September 22, 2008
ST. PAUL – In her award-winning documentary “The Teachings of
Jon,” director and producer Jennifer Owensby shared a no-holds-barred look at
what it’s like to have a brother with severe Down syndrome. Owensby will also
share experiences and wisdom gained from her brother as the keynote speaker at
Arc Greater Twin Cities’ Sibling Alliance Conference. The conference will be
held Saturday, Nov. 1, from 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Neighborhood House, 179
Robie St. E., St. Paul.
The Sibling Alliance Conference is for adults who, like Owensby, have a brother
or sister with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants will
be moved and inspired by Owensby, who said of Jon, “He has an IQ of 20, doesn't
talk and earns less than $13 a year. Although Jon may never accomplish much in
this world, he has an important purpose here... not necessarily to learn, but
to teach . . . ‘The Teachings of Jon’ is about celebrating Jon exactly as he
is, and how we as a family allowed ourselves to change and grow and succeed
because of him.”
In addition to Owensby’s presentation, the conference will feature
informational sessions on topics such as communication, legal issues and civic
engagement.
The day-long Sibling Alliance Conference is $30 for Arc members and $80 for
non-members. For registration or more information, call Arc at (952) 920-0855
or visit www.arcgreatertwincities.org.
Arc Greater Twin Cities is a nonprofit agency serving the many needs of people
with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Established in 1946, Arc has been changing attitudes, changing policies and
changing lives for more than 60 years. Arc helps individuals and families
address issues that span the lifetime, including early intervention, education,
transition to adulthood, health care, housing, employment, guardianship and
more. For more information and volunteer opportunities, call Arc at (952)
920-0855 or visit www.arcgreatertwincities.org.