The Green River Area Down Syndrome Association (GRADSA) is searching for a new executive director, as Tiffany Thrash announced her resignation from the position earlier this week. Thrash has served in that capacity for more than 5 years, guiding the nonprofit through exponential growth.
During her tenure, the group has secured a permanent facility, established the first all-Down syndrome basketball league in the state, and created the Down Right Perfect Coffee brand. She said GRADSA’s mission is what initially attracted her to the position.
“It’s very near to my heart to advocate for individuals with different abilities,” Thrash said. “I’ve always been passionate about raising awareness about the gifts we all have to offer. GRADSA is a wonderful organization, and we’ve made so much progress.”
Thrash’s time at the helm saw many adults with Down syndrome achieve long-term employment, while the annual Buddy Walk fundraiser doubled in participation. The yearly fundraiser often raises more than $120,000.
“Our kids and adults are the best part of GRADSA – they make all the work worth it,” she said. “We’ve done a lot of rebranding in the past 5 years with a new logo and slogan. GRADSA has transformed into an organization that not only serves individuals with Down syndrome but their families and the community by raising awareness and being a bridge between ordinary and extraordinary.”
Thrash will move to Arkansas to accept a teaching position and begin working on a second master’s degree. She aspires to continue to grow as a professional and help others grow towards their goals.
“My time with GRADSA has been beautiful – I’ve grown personally and professionally,” Thrash said. “I would describe my time with GRADSA with one phrase: ‘we are more alike than different.’ I’ve learned that no matter the background, no matter the challenges or blessings, we all love, hurt, and want to belong.”
GRADSA has partnered with Gorman Recruiting to find a new executive director. Interested candidates should submit their resumes by email to [email protected].
“Tiffany has given her heart and soul to GRADSA and taken this organization to a place no one could have ever imagined in such a short time,” said Scott Frisch, president of GRADSA’s executive committee. “There’s not enough gratitude to express how much we appreciate what Tiffany has done for us the last 5 years.”
