Benefits of bringing DARIUS GOES WEST to your school
Darius Goes West (DGW) was directed and edited by Logan Smalley, an education major from the University of Georgia with a Master’s degree in “Technology, Innovation, & Education” from Harvard University.
Sharing DGW with your students offers these benefits:
Provides a rich and exciting curriculum–developed by educators and tied to National Standards–that spans genetics, mathematics, language arts, and social studies. Lesson plans also focus on tolerance/diversity, peer acceptance, and personal responsibility.
Raises awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the number one genetic killer of children worldwide.
Provides a positive example of motivated youth by showing how a group of 12 school-aged kids managed a project from start to finish against defying odds–and prevailed.
Encourages students to follow their dreams.
Raises awareness about caregiving by showing students how they can help others and each other, including people with disabilities.
Introduces the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and discusses how and why it was created , as well as how it affects the everyday lives of those with disabilities.
Encourages students to roll up their sleeves and produce creative fund-raisers for causes promoted by the film.
Invites students to become “the 13th crew member,” by joining a vigorous nationwide community of Darius Goes West supporters–people who “Know About It.”
"A Classic"--The Los Angeles Times
"Certain to stir hearts."-- Variety
The Movie
Accompanied by his eleven best friends, Darius Weems, a fifteen-year-old living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), leaves home for the first time in his life. The rowdy crew sets a course for California where they hope to convince MTV to customize Darius's wheelchair on the hit show, Pimp My Ride. Darius Goes West has been enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people of all ages all around the world.
The Movement
Darius Goes West is more than a film. The continuing story of Darius, his crew, and the tens of thousands of supporters they have met in their travels can be experienced on this website. This site is continually updated with short videos, blog posts, and innovative initiatives that aim to affect a cure for DMD.
If you're new to DGW, check out the Blog, or join the Facebook group to see what you've missed. If you're a teacher or a student, be sure to check out the educational program. And If you are interested in having Darius or one of the crew members "Skype in" for a Q&A at your screening, please contact us.
DGW is a registered 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization. All proceeds benefit Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy research.
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