A community organization dedicated to promoting inclusion, providing education and resources to the community and supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families in Bucks County, PA.
Health and Medical Information
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Down Syndrome
Organizations
Trisomy 21 Resources
Local/Regional Down Syndrome Organizations
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BUDS provides opportunities and resources in South Jersey for its members in these areas: Friendship, Inclusion and Advocacy.
Chester County Down Syndrome Interest Group
We’re so glad you found us. Whether you’re expecting a child with Down syndrome, looking for community activities for your loved one, or simply want to learn more about our community in Chester County, we invite you to explore our site.
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Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Trisomy 21 Center
The Trisomy 21 Program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia evaluates, treats and provides coordinated multidisciplinary care for children and adults with trisomy 21 — also known as Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome Association of Central New Jersey
The Down Syndrome Association of Central New Jersey is a non-profit organization, dedicated to providing support, education, opportunity and enrichment to persons with Down Syndrome and their families.
Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center
Gigi's Playhouse, Hillsborough, NJ
Gigi's Playhouse, Lancaster, PA
Hopes and Dreams is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing inclusive programs in music, theater, dance for children and young adults with Down syndrome and differing abilities. The Hopes and Dreams highlights the talents of participants with various abilities and holds performances based on their interests as well as popular movies and musicals. Hopes and Dreams Foundation runs a Buddy Walk each spring in Core Creek Park.
Montgomery County Down Syndrome Interest Group
The Montgomery County Down Syndrome Interest Group of Pennsylvania (MCDSIG) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families from diagnosis to adulthood through education, advocacy, support, outreach, and social opportunities.
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Trisomy 21 Parent Peer Program
CHOP's Trisomy 21 Parent Peer Program provides support and resources to families of individuals with Down syndrome by matching them with fellow caregivers.
National Down Syndrome Organizations
National Down Syndrome Society
The National Down Syndrome Society is a leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome, involved in research, advocacy and education.
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321Foundation
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Down Syndrome Advocacy Foundation
The Down Syndrome Advocacy Foundation is a not-for-profit organization [501 (c) (3)] founded by a group of individuals who have children or family members with Down syndrome. DSAF is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with Down syndrome through advocacy and supporting inclusion within schools, communities, and the work place.
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National Down Syndrome Congress
The National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) is a national advocacy organization that provides information and support concerning all aspects of life for individuals with Down syndrome.
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National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS)
NADS provides information about Down syndrome, including publications, videos, online discussion forums, conferences and seminars for families and healthcare professional.
Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action
At DSAIA, we strive to support and advance the growth and capacity of local and regional Down syndrome associations. We provide the connections, the inspiration, training, and resources so that our members can meet the needs of individuals with Down syndrome in their communities. Our members are leaders in every sense of the word.
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Empowering Down syndrome Communities: We share core values that support the rights of people with Down syndrome. We have shared experiences with families meeting the needs of people with Down syndrome. We support advocacy for our community in public policy making. We value the role of the volunteer. We believe collaboration builds a stronger community. We embrace the sharing of ideas to strengthen local impact
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Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network
DSDN is the largest national organization supporting new and expectant parents with a Down syndrome diagnosis. The mission of the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network is to connect, support, and provide accurate information to parents - and the medical professionals who serve them - from the time of diagnosis through age 3 while fostering the opportunity for lifelong connections. Our vision is that every Down syndrome diagnosis will be delivered in an unbiased, factual, and supportive way every time and that families can quickly find meaningful connections.Since 2014, DSDN has been supporting families and helping them to find connections and information.
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The I’m Determined project, a state directed project funded by the Virginia Department of Education, focuses on providing direct instruction, models, and opportunities to practice skills associated with self-determined behavior.
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An organization dedicated to inspiring parents, medical professionals, and the general public to reimagine what's possible for those living with Down syndrome through education, advocacy, and awareness.
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Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG-USA)
DSMIG-USA® is a group of health professionals committed to promoting the optimal health care and wellness of individuals with Down syndrome (DS) across the lifespan. Members of this DSMIG-USA are professionals from a variety of disciplines who provide care to individuals with Down syndrome and/or their families.
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Gigi’s Playhouse: Down Syndrome Achievement Centers
With over 55+ brick and mortar locations across the United States and Mexico and 200 inquiries to start new locations all over the world, GiGi’s Playhouse is the ONLY network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers. Every day, we provide FREE, life-changing therapeutic, educational, and career training programs for 30,000+ individuals of all ages. Through free programs and through our Generation G Campaign for global acceptance, we EMPOWER families by maximizing opportunities for daily achievement and lasting acceptance. To ensure lasting acceptance, we must show the world what individuals with Down syndrome are truly capable of achieving as students, co-workers, volunteers, friends, and valued members of their communities. Our program outcomes help advance this vital social impact goal.
We envision a world where every person with Down syndrome thrives with improved health, independence, and opportunities to reach their fullest potential. We accelerate research to increase availability of therapeutic, diagnostic, and medical care options and we empower families through education, connections, and support. myDSC is a FREE, online library designed specifically for the Down syndrome community. Curated by trusted professionals, myDSC is a comprehensive directory of evidence-based resources and useful tools for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The library provides members with reliable, up-to-date information regarding: health and wellness, lifestyle, education, medical and research information.
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Down Syndrome Pregnancy
http://downsyndromepregnancy.org
Down Syndrome Pregnancy, Inc. is a nonprofit New Jersey corporation that provides information and support to expectant parents preparing for the birth of a baby with Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome Research Foundation
DSRF investigates best practices and initiates and participates in research studies to gain a better understanding of the learning styles of individuals with Down syndrome.
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International Down Syndrome Organizations
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Down Syndrome Education International
We work to improve early intervention and education for children with Down syndrome around the world. Our research focuses on developmental research designed to improve speech, language and communication skills, raise levels of achievement in literacy and numeracy, and support effective inclusion.
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Down Syndrome International (DSi)
We are a UK based international disabled people's organisation, comprising a membership of individuals and organisations from all over the world, committed to improving quality of life for people with Down syndrome, promoting their right to be included on a full and equal basis with others.
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Down Syndrome Resource Foundation (DSRF - Canada)
Our vision is a Canada that values and empowers people living with Down syndrome, and promotes social and economic inclusion across the lifespan.
DSRF offers a wide variety of educational and health opportunities to children and young adults with Down syndrome, including ground-breaking one to one reading and math instruction, speech language therapy, occupational therapy, and a variety of adult education programs which prepare our students to live full and fulfilling lives in the community and workplace. Our programs are continually evolving based on the latest intervention research and best practice, and tailored to the individual learner's strengths, interests and needs.
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Down's Syndrome Association (DSA - UK)
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Global Down Syndrome Foundation
Dedicated to significantly improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through Research, Medical Care, Education and Advocacy. GLOBAL’s primary focus is to support the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, the first academic home in the United States committed solely to research and medical care for people with Down syndrome. The Global Down Syndrome Foundation created and organizes the Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show – and others including Dare to Play Football Camp with Ed McCaffrey, Denver Broncos Cheerleaders Dare to Cheer Camp, and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation Educational Grants.
Books for
Families & Professionals
Children's Books
About:
Diversity
Inclusion
Down syndrome
https://a.co/d/cFurWKf
by Marcus Sikora
by Meg Ray
by Rose Robbins
By Kathryn Otoshi
by David Milgrim
by Amanda Jackson
By Cindy Gainer
By Becky Carey
by Gemma Keir and Adam Walker-Parker
by Annette Bay Pimentel
By Megan Bomgarrs & Pete Olczyk
By Steve Herman
by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael Lopez
By Alfred Kisov
By Heather Avis
By Amy E. Sturkey Illustrator Ikos Ronzkie
by Michelle Sullivan Illustrated by Britt Scott
by Lauren Grabois Fischer and Devin Hunt
by Lori Yarborough and Roksana Oslizlo
By Jewel Kats and Claudia Marie Lenart
By Amanda Doering Tourville
By Chuck Neighbors Illustrated by Chris Kielesinski
by Cerrie Burnell and Lauren Mark Baldo
by Carol Lynn Pearson and Jane Sanders
By Melanie Hawkins
By Sonia Sotomayor and Rafael Lopez
by Erin Palmer and John Joseph
by Laura Ronay and Jon Wayne Kishimoto
by Laura Ronay and Jon Wayne Kishimoto
By Francie Dolan Illustrated by Wendy Leach
By Jennifer Moore-Mallinos
by Eliza Woloson Illustrated by Bryan Gough
By Kaitlyn Duling
by Stephanie Bentley
Down Syndrome
Vendors/Businesses
Bake Ability, a savory and sweet specialties bakery, will be serving daily baked goods, baked by individuals with different abilities who will be mentored by professionals. Unemployment within the intellectual disability community is significantly higher than the national average. Bake Ability affords individuals opportunities to learn a trade, grow and serve the community in the baking industry.
These community members are loyal, dedicated, and hard working. This will give them an opportunity to showcase how productive they can be and what an asset they are to any community.
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​Built Different
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DSDN is the largest national organization supporting new and expectant parents with a Down syndrome diagnosis.
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An inclusive minded apparel company
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Littlest Warrior Apparel was inspired by my son Eli who is my biggest hero.
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Lupita Cano is a self-taught abstract painter who loves to share her unique perspective of the world through her art. Today Lupita's work is exhibited and sold at art walks, craft fairs, gallery shows, coffee shops, regional and national disability conferences, fundraisers, through retail shops and online. Lupita also contributes to her community by donating her work to charitable causes. Lupita paints at the Vibrant Palette Art Center in Seattle, and at her home. She enjoys being a business owner, contributing member of her community, and an inspiration to others. Lupita encourages others to "listen to their hearts and take a chance".
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Reeve's Tees feature unique sayings that promote the acceptance of individuals with chromosomal conditions and intellectual disabilities. We acknowledge that people with Down syndrome and/or other conditions have some differences - our goal is to help people get comfortable with those differences so that they can move past them to find genuine connection, understanding, and acceptance.
We have developed two lines of t-shirts and other products called "Homies with Extra Chromies"® and "For the S.I.B.S. (Supportive & Inclusive Brothers & Sisters)" to help change perceptions by showing how families and friends celebrate the special differences that our loved ones bring!
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Sean from "Born the Way." When I was little my parents had to translate my speech because nobody could understand me. They said I spoke "Seanese." Now I am putting my thoughts and sayings on shirts so you can speak Seanese too!
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Nate Simon, our CEO, 19, has always been known as a fashion icon. From rocking funky Hawaiian Shirts to his love for bowties. Nate loves to be dressed to impress. His infectious spirit is showcased by his fashionable style. Our mission is to change the way others perceive people with Down Syndrome & other special abilities one Hawaiian Shirt at a time. A percentage of all sales will go directly to support Down Syndrome organizations throughout the world. Some see a disability, we see endless abilities. Thank you for your support. Let's change the world together one funky shirt at a time!
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Madeline officially added “clothing designer” to her already impressive resume with the launch of her clothing label 21 Reasons Why. The name of her brand was inspired by her passion to find reasons to better ourselves, be more inclusive, healthier, and why we should celebrate life, whilst taking pride in her 21st chromosome. Maddy’s mission is to continue to spread her message of inclusion; that there are no boundaries regardless of your age, size, race, height, or disability. 21 Reasons Why mirrors Maddy’s own daily style that she wears off the runway. A contemporary, edgy women’s ready-to-wear collection, perfect for day wear and yet trendy and versatile for an evening out on the town.
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My name is Stephanie and I am proud to be the owner of 4 Leaf Coffee selling Dreamers Coffee to help bring awareness to the fact that people with disabilities can work, lead normal lives, and achieve their dreams. I am a college student learning about business and now I have the great opportunity to share my dream with others and allow people to enjoy the great taste of Dreamers Coffee!
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****Do you know of any to add to this list? Let us know! ****
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Information for
New or Expectant Parents
Hi New Parents!
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Congratulations! You may be excited, you may be shocked, you may have a RANGE of feelings. One thing is for sure, we have all been there! We are so excited to meet you! Here are some resources to get you started. Be sure to visit our Welcome Basket page. And please, don't hesitate to find us on Facebook. Or introduce yourself if you bump into us at the grocery store!
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With love and excitement,
The families of BCDSIG
A Few Tips to Get You Started...
The National Parents First Call Center is a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive full-service professional center that serves expectant parents and medical providers as well as Down syndrome organization leaders and parent volunteers.The National Prenatal First Call Center, caters to the “First Call” needs of expectant parents and medical professionals when they first learn of a suspected or confirmed Down syndrome diagnosis.
Podcasts
Down syndrome Center Podcast
This podcast contains information for caregivers and providers regarding Down syndrome. Hosted by Dr. Kishore Vellody, Medical Director of the Down Syndrome Center of Western Pennsylvania and former President of the National Down Syndrome Congress.
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If We Knew Then - A Down Syndrome Podcast
We are Stephen and Lori Saux and welcome to the If We Knew Then Podcast. We are parents of two children and one of them has Down Syndrome, Liam. When Liam was born we didn’t know very much about Down Syndrome and most of the information we did have didn’t seem very hopeful and positive. Well this podcast aims to share honest and useful conversations about supports, therapies, education and society as it pertains to Down syndrome advocacy and parenting. ifweknewthen.com
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TALK Down Syndrome is a podcast created to show the world how Down Syndrome is truly amazing. My goal is to inspire and support through YOUR life stories! Each episode is a unique interview that provides real life experiences about our loved ones, shared by you. Together we can create a new definition of Down syndrome! We are here to TALK (Teach, Advocate, Listen, and Kindness)
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A family podcast about Down syndrome, single parenting, special needs, and pretty much everything in between.
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