FORE!: A helping hand

The future looks bright for the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada, thanks to Jim Rhodes of Rhodes Homes. The builder has pledged $250,000 in cash and in-kind services for the construction of a new home for the nonprofit agency, which has outgrown its current facility, a converted residence on Vegas Drive in Las Vegas.

"Rhodes Homes has been a supporter of the Down Syndrome Organization for many years," said Glynda Rhodes, the builder's director of design. "Jim learned about the organization because his nephew was born with Down syndrome. Jim felt the need to do more, because the current facilities for the organization are inadequate to meet its growing needs.

"We hope that we can get other businesses and individuals in Las Vegas to partner with us, and build a center that will help these children achieve their full potential."

Down syndrome is a genetic birth defect that causes varying levels of mental and physical disabilities. Jason Smith, director of development for the agency, said it affects about 15,000 families in Southern Nevada.

"One of the biggest misconceptions about children born with Down syndrome is that they are unable to have normal lives," Smith said. "Unless their disabilities are severe, most people with Down syndrome graduate from high school, can work outside the home, and are able to live relatively independent lives.

"Our organization provides education, support services, and community awareness programs to assist families in addressing the special needs of children and adults with Down syndrome."

The pledge is not the first made by Rhodes to the organization. In May, he hosted a benefit golf tournament at Rhodes Ranch Golf Club.

"Jim Rhodes donated (use of) the golf course, which allowed us to net 100 percent of the proceeds from the tournament. And, he contributed an additional $25,000 as well," he said.

The Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada will hold its annual fund-raiser, "The Festival of Trees and Lights," at the Paris Las Vegas hotel on Saturday, Nov. 13. The festival will honor Rhodes as the agency's "Man of the Year."

Rhodes Homes has built more than 30 subdivisions in Southern Nevada. It has two developing golf course communities: Rhodes Ranch in the southwestern valley and Tuscany in Henderson.

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