Cookies...With Heart
In August 2008, Jane and Douglas Ball purchased Sweet Carolina Gourmet, a gourmet cookie company that ships its beautiful gift baskets filled with their delectable cookies, fudges, brownies and chocolate bark nationwide. The purpose of the new venture is to find a great way to help fund The Caroline Ball Family Fund. As the business grows, so will the fund. Monies raised through the CBFF aid research in Down Syndrome at Duke University Medical Center and also helps provide scholarships and grants to special education teachers.
"Every parent wants their child to be successful, happy and independent. It's no different for Caroline," said Jane Ball. "Our mission is to enhance the lives of all individuals with Down Syndrome and their families." (From Triangle East Magazine, February/March 2009 Issue, Article By Nancy Pardue).
The ultimate goal of the CBFF, in collaboration with The Triangle Down Syndrome Network, is a village concept for adults with Down Syndrome to live, learn and work. We want to include a facility with jobs, including contracts with major employers, for the adults with DS. The idea is to help create independence for those with DS. Of course, Caroline is a future employee of Sweet Carolina Gourmet!
What's New with Caroline
Caroline is now four years old and has learned to spell her name and count out her favorite cookies. She attends a local preschool for children with disabilities. Jane and Douglas plan to mainstream her education when she is in kindergarten. Jane says that Caroline has a determination which has helped her exceed expectations at every turn.
