About
Our Vision: A day in which every person with Down syndrome is a valued and contributing member of their communities.
Mission
The mission of this organization is to ensure all individuals with Down syndrome in the Northern Virginia area, and their families, receive the support necessary to participate in, contribute to and achieve fulfillment of life in their communities. DSANV:
- Helps families adjust to the diagnosis and/or birth of a child with Down syndrome;
- Provides individuals with Down syndrome, and their families, with educational, social and recreational programs and community events that allow families to meet, interact and learn from each other;
- Increases community awareness of the capabilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome; and
- Supports local organizations that serve the Down syndrome community.
History
DSANV was originally founded as MOMS in 1972. In the early 80s, the name was changed to Parents of Down Syndrome (PODS). In 2004, we became the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV). Since then, we have grown to more than 900 members representing the thousands of individuals across Northern Virginia who have Down syndrome.
DSANV has become a trusted resource for individuals, families, friends, educators, employers, legislators, and the medical community. Our organization engages a strong board of directors and a broad base of volunteer and financial support in achieving our mission to ensure that all individuals with Down syndrome and their families receive the support necessary to participate in, contribute to and achieve fulfillment of life in their community.
DSANV has a history of success in:
- Helping families adjust to the birth of a child with Down syndrome;
- Providing individuals with Down syndrome and their families with educational, financial, medical, legal and social support and resources;
- Providing social and educational events for individuals with Down syndrome and their families to meet, interact and learn;
- Increasing community awareness of the capabilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome;
- Providing financial support to families in need with camp scholarships, and conference scholarships;
- Partnering with local, national, and international organizations that provide services to individuals with Down syndrome.
Programs
Proposed Dates DADS (Dads appreciating Down syndrome) meetings 7:00 -9:00 PM September 21st (Thursday) October
In 2024, DSANV is continuing to offer three options for BINGO. The third Wednesday of
If you are an expectant parent or have been parenting your child with Down Syndrome
Apple Day – Sunday, September 24, 2023 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Come join is in
DSANV Events
Sunday October 1, 2023 Workhouse Art Center Register here
Community Events
Legal and Financial Planning Workshop
Legal and Financial Planning Workshop for Individuals with Disabilities and Their Families
AAC Parent Support Group- November 18, 2023 10:00AM
Our AAC Parent Support Group seeks to connect parents of individuals using AAC to share successes and challenges, gather helpful ideas and resources, and empower families to support the development of successful communication skills for their AAC user. This group is free of charge and open to all. Feel free to share with others who may be interested!
Chipolte Fundraiser to benefit the 2023DSANV Buddy Walk®
CHIPOTLE FUNDRAISER FORDOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OFNORTHERN VIRGINIA33% OF EVENT SALES GET DONATED TO THE CAUSEMONDAY,
The Elder and Disability Law Clinic at the College of William and Mary is offering
Infant Brain Imaging Study Recruiting Participants
Hello! Happy New Year! I hope your year is off to a great start at
News
November 2023 DSANV Newsletter
November 2023 DSANV Newsletter
October 2023 DSANV Newsletter
September 2023 Newsletter