IMPORTANT LINKS

www.ds-health.com

A great website for medical issues pertaining to those with Ds.

www.wrightslaw.com

Super site for information on the education rights of our children.  Excellent source of information regarding IDEA and IEP

National Down Syndrome Organizations

National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) - established in 1979 to increase public awareness about Down syndrome; to assist families in addressing the needs of children born with this genetic condition; and to sponsor and encourage scientific research.

NDSS maintains a toll-free number (1-800-221-4602) to its professionally staffed information and referral service available to people nationwide. They provide general information about Down syndrome; referral to parent support groups as well as other local and national resources; and information on many topics related to Down syndrome. A free information packet is available for new parents.

National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) - a national advocacy organization for Down syndrome and provides leadership in all areas of concern related to persons with Down syndrome.

D.A.D.S. - Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome The mission of D.A.D.S. is to assist and support, through fellowship and action, the fathers and families of individuals with Down syndrome.  This is a great new organization, formed in 2002, that was created to help fathers develop a program based on the needs of men.

Association for Children with Down Syndrome (ACDS) - early intervetion program services approximately 200 children with Down syndrome from Nassau and Suffolk counties and New York City. Various service models are available to families to meet their individual needs. ACDS provides services for our son.

National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) - a not-for-profit organization, was founded in Chicago in 1961 by parents of children with Down syndrome who felt a need to create a better environment and bring about understanding and acceptance of people with Down syndrome.

The Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) - the country's largest voluntary organization committed to the welfare of all children and adults with mental retardation and their families.

The ARC of Virginia - The Arc of Virginia advocates for individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities and their families, so they may all lead productive and fulfilling lives.

Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) - ensures that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to culturally competent services, supports, and other assistance and opportunities that promotes independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion into the community.