Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

Angels in the Valley:

Anything he can do to help, he will

David Abraham Jr

Steve Marcus

David Abraham Jr., 50, poses at his home Monday Sept. 29, 2014. Abraham, who has Down Syndrome, is being recognized by the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada as volunteer of the year.

David Abraham Jr.

David Abraham Jr., 50, poses at his home Monday Sept. 29, 2014. Abraham, who has Down Syndrome, is being recognized by the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada as volunteer of the year. Launch slideshow »

DO YOU KNOW AN ANGEL?

In Angels in the Valley, an occasional series, we profile individuals who’ve made a difference in the lives of others and deserve to be recognized for their willingness to help. So if you know an Angel, email [email protected] with details.

David Abraham Jr. is a busy guy.

You might find him rooting for his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers or Ohio State Buckeyes, dancing with his girlfriend or restoring old cars with his dad. But most likely, he’s lending a hand where needed.

“I’m proud to help people,” Abraham said, flashing a smile.

Abraham’s cheerful demeanor and willingness to pitch in led to him being named the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada’s Volunteer of the Year. Abraham, 50, has Down syndrome, but he prefers to call it “Up syndrome.”

“David will do anything — move boxes, unload trucks, paint rooms, stuff envelopes,” said Deann Cline, director of fund development for the Down Syndrome Organization.

Abraham’s achievements today fall in stark contrast with doctors’ predictions at his birth. They told Abraham’s parents their son never would walk or talk. But his parents ignored the doctors and raised him the same as they did his younger brother and sister.

In 1982, Abraham graduated from Variety School, which serves Clark County students with special needs. Since then, he has worked at Carl’s Jr. and Opportunity Village. He currently serves as a self-advocate on the board of directors at the Down Syndrome Organization.

Abraham’s mother, Sara, said she constantly is amazed by her son’s accomplishments and credits him with keeping her and her husband youthful. Whether it’s volunteering at the Down Syndrome Organization, attending Special Olympics events or simply hanging out with friends, Abraham’s social calendar always is full.

“He is always the first one to shake hands and welcome people,” Sara Abraham said. “He can tell if something is bothering you or you’re down. He can read people.”

Given David Abraham’s long track record of participation, his nomination to the Down Syndrome Organization’s board of directors was a no-brainer, Cline said. His three-year term as a voting member began in April 2013.

Abraham will be honored Nov. 21 as Volunteer of the Year at the organization’s 2014 Festival of Trees and Lights at South Point.

“David definitely looks at the clear picture,” Cline said. “I’ve seen him yay or nay votes to best benefit individuals with Down syndrome. He is very conscious of his role as a board member.”

As for Abraham’s future life goals? Simple.

“Help more people,” he said.

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