Our Mission
We are dedicated to helping families of children with Down syndrome by providing financial assistance to access the necessary therapeutic services.
What is Special & Determined?
Special & Determined started out as a blog. Motivated by the love for her son, Marla shared their life as a family caring for a child with Down syndrome. “All things are possible when you believe. We learned that the day our son was born!” Their belief that their son was capable of many things with the right support, fueled their desire to get him all the therapies they could, so he could reach his fullest potential.
Special & Determined has since grown into a 501c3, in which our goal is to:
increase education and awareness on the abilities individuals Down syndrome have, by shifting the mindset away from the stigma that surrounds Down syndrome and focus on an individual’s potential and capabilities.
provide families of children ages 3-6 years old with Down syndrome, the financial assistance they need for their child to access the necessary therapeutic services to help them grow and thrive!
Who is Special & Determined?
Paul Murasko - President
Paul has been actively involved in charity work for over 25 years as a volunteer, committee member and board director.
Marla Murasko - Vice President
Marla has many years experience as a volunteer and servant leader, and is actively involved on other nonprofit committees.
Amanda Murasko - Secretary
Amanda’s love of working with people helped guide her to a career in fundraising within the nonprofit sector.
Board of Directors
Christian Randall, Accountant
Dr. Donna Murasko
Karen Roper
Heather Delp
Eileen Locke