Yesterday, Nino and I made it a point to go out on a date for lunch. I had a busy day planned since there were two other things that I needed to tend to, but this was the last Saturday lunch where we could go #DownForThai at Mango Tree in BGC. We made sure to take the time out of our schedule to enjoy my favorite Asian cuisine because #DownForThai is the first time that Mango Tree and DSAPI teamed up to promote Down Syndrome Awareness; all this in time for Mango Tree’s second anniversary celebration.

If you order from the special menu, Mango Tree will donate a portion of the proceeds directly to DSAPI to help fund the upcoming medical mission. (Photo Credit: DSAPI FB page)

Lala sat us our table and Rich came over to say hi when she saw me bring out my iPhone to snap a picture.

Adette is the oil that keeps the DSAPI machine working so well. Thanks Adette for all your hard work for our kids! Pssst. Can you find Nino?
We only ordered three dishes because we knew we would have to eat and run. This meant we had just enough time to chat a little bit with each of the girls, and with Adette and the girls’ family members who had accompanied them to the restaurant. We really got a kick out of Jana. She had me giggling and I actually mentioned to Nino that I would like Gelli to have her spunk when she is fifteen years old.

The staff of Mango Tree was extremely supportive and patient with all of the girls as they learned their jobs for the day.
Thank you Lala, Rich, Jana, and Shelly! You made our day with your infectious laughter, genuine smiles, and skills in serving. We are so proud of you!
Yesterday was the last in a series of dinners and lunches that a total of 32 kids were able to enrich themselves through the generosity and love of Mango Tree. Check out this video from one of the other lunches where our kids were able to serve Mango Tree customers.
I heard from Adette that we might have similar activities in the works with other restaurants who have expressed an interest in helping us with Down Syndrome Awareness…I can’t wait to share those activities with you as the plans are solidified.
I’m so loving your new short hair Michelle!! Class all the way. Hope to see you soon. Miss yoh mwah!! :-*
Thanks Jane!
Me too 🙂 Looking forward to seeing you this week!! Hooray for neighbors!
Great Idea by the owner of Mango Tree!
Isn’t it? We are so thankful for restaurant owners like him!
Haay sayang that we missed this 🙁 My hope is that Mango Tree and other businesses will make it a point to hire individuals with developmental disabilities. These kids can learn so much and can teach so much. All they need is the chance!
I love the video!!! Joey’s there pala!
Nevs-The food was REALLY good.
I do believe we are moving towards meaningful jobs for our kids. I can feel it. I know DSAPI would entertain any restaurant that would like to give kids with Down Syndrome an opportunity. It was so nice to see the kids working with their shadow server and interacting with one another. It really was a feel good day 🙂
And I absolutely love anything with Joey girl in it! She’s just yummy.