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.

Vice-President

Tenisha Benson

Mother of Kelsey

At Large Board Member

Julie Leininger

Grandmother of Kelsey

Hello, my name is Tenisha Benson. My goal is to continuously educate others about Down Syndrome. I was blessed with a beautiful daughter that has down syndrome. Kelsey has taught me so many amazing things over the last 25 years. I’m dedicated to advocating for her and others with special needs. Kelsey and I spend a lot of our time with her two other siblings Karson and Kortney. Family is my life!

Treasurer

Terry Moritz

President

Lorra Stiles

Mother of Emma

Hi! My name is Terry Moritz. I live in Ventura. My husband, Jon and I have two children, Parker and Avery.. 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.