Local, State, or National Sources
This page is dedicated to sources you can be a part of! Each website also provides updated information about families and Down syndrome.
Best Buddies
Opportunity Village
Canadian Down Syndrome Society
National Association for Down Syndrome
Summaries
Here is a brief description about each source.
You can also click the images to bring you to the website.
Best Buddies
Best Buddies of Nevada is a nonprofit organization committed in creating opportunities for volunteers to make one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This organization serves people with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile x, and other undiagnosed disabilities. According to the website, this program is the world's largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Some of the critical purposes of this program is to help form meaningful friendships with peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communication skills, and feel valued by society. This program also educates elementary school, middle school, high school, and college students. This source enables people to volunteer or join this global volunteer movement either through school, community, and even at your workplace. Applicants and volunteer applicants are more than welcomed to become part of the organization. One can become a member or a volunteer by applying--once applied you will be paired up with a buddy in person or even paired with an e-buddy in which one can stay social with a buddy by communicating online. This organization is perfect for those who want to change the world through the power of friendship.
Opportunity Village
Opportunity Village in Southern Nevada is a nonprofit organization that serves adults with intellectual and related disabilities to enhance their lives and the lives of families who love them. Opportunity Village encourages people with disabilities and their families to have a choice in where and or how they are served and to follow their dreams. There are also several programs within this organization which provide all levels of disabilities the chance to lead a life that has been previously unattainable. This organization allows people with severe disabilities to find new friends, unleash their passion, think of their future, find independence, and enhance community integration. The benefits from this organization includes long term work experience, learning marketable job skills, increased independence, and increased self-esteem. This source also enables people to donate, provides training, and hosts the most popular special events in all of Las Vegas. There are several ways to give to Opportunity Village to help the program continue implementing such tremendous services. For example, cash gifts, donating your change, donating your vehicle, shopping at the Opportunity Village thrift store, attending a fundraising event or donating auction items, and of course donating your time in helping serve men and women with intellectual disabilities. Opportunity Village heavily relies on the people in the community either through hand-in-hand volunteering or assisting with events.
Canadian Down Syndrome Society
The Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS) is a national nonprofit organization. This nonprofit organization's mission is to empower, provide information, raise awareness, and give support for Canadians with Down syndrome in all stages of life and their families. This source provides up-to-date information and education for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, educators, caregivers, and professionals. The organization also integrates advocacy and supports people with Down syndrome through resources and assistance for parents and families of children with DS. Their vision is that all people are valued, fully participating citizens. Their goal is to be able to provide anyone with direction or support when needed. There is also a section on this site that encourages and provides information for new parents with babies that have DS. The link provides real life experiences, information on life stages starting from prenatal through retirement, gives parents the opportunity to connect by visiting the program, and includes most asked questions with answers. This insightful program is a way to connect and meet new amazing people--a way to grow and learn together. CDSS is a great opportunity to be a part of either through donating, sponsoring, or joining the society.
National Association for Down Syndrome
National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) was founded in Chicago and is the oldest organization in the country that serves people with DS and their families. NADS generates individuals with Down syndrome to be accepted by their families and communities, to develop their capabilities, and to work towards independence. This program provides support for individuals with DS in achieving their full potential. This source includes information and resources to help people access appropriate services, educates the public about DS, addresses social policy issues and challenges, and facilitates families. The services provided include parent support, resource referrals, public awareness, self-advocate program, retreats, conferences and seminars, public speakers for schools, medical professionals, and community organizations. The core of their mission is revolved around helping and supporting families. Although this association is in Chicago, they provide access outside of Chicago. They have available resources on their website for anyone to access, their conferences and products or publications are available to a wider community, and the information about Down syndrome is also accessible. Members are not only in Chicago, but can be found throughout the United States--and across the globe.