Listing Category
Short Description
The Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin's mission is to provide support to Wisconsin families and individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities through awareness, education, information, programs, services, and the exchange of ideas and experiences. We promote the value of those with Down syndrome in our lives and our communities. We continually strive toward full acceptance, full access, full potential and a full life to make Wisconsin the best supported state for people with Down syndrome and their loved ones.
No matter where someone lives in Wisconsin, DSAW can provide them resources and support on their journey. Whether it’s the scared young couple who has just received a diagnosis and fears the unknown; or the families who need support with potty training, learning how to ride a bike, and navigating the public school system; or those who need help transitioning from high-school to adulthood – DSAW is there.
No matter where someone lives in Wisconsin, DSAW can provide them resources and support on their journey. Whether it’s the scared young couple who has just received a diagnosis and fears the unknown; or the families who need support with potty training, learning how to ride a bike, and navigating the public school system; or those who need help transitioning from high-school to adulthood – DSAW is there.
Description
The founding families of DSAW came together in 1990 to chart a new course for their children. For seven years, this group met in hospitals and libraries to discuss their hopes for their children. From these meetings, the DSAW we know today was born.
Over the course of the year, DSAW touches the lives of more than 5,500 people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) through the provision of services, education, resources and support. DSAW is able to make a difference in thousands of lives because of the incredible support of our community. We are a 30-year-old volunteer driven organization – we have more than 800 volunteers throughout the state!! It is their energy and passion that fuels our mission forward.