New & Expectant Families - This breakfast is for you!  Connect with other families while enjoying a relaxed meal together.  Veteran DSANV parents will be on-site to answer questions and share their experiences parenting a child with Down syndrome.  We can’t wait to meet you! 

This program is for parents with a diagnosis, or who have a child with Down syndrome aged 3 or younger.  Meet other new families, as well as other DSANV members, who may be able to answer some of your questions. 

Siblings are welcome.

Questions? Please contact Heather Trammell (Director of Family Support) at heathert@dsanv.org.

In recognition of 3 copies of chromosome 21, we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st! DSANV hosts an annual party where all ages and abilities are welcome! This is a family and community event. It is not a drop-off event. Bring your friends and family - the more, the merrier!

Every October, families across Northern Virginia come together for one reason: to celebrate their kids, their friends, and everyone in our Down syndrome community.

Every step you take that day turns into real support:

• Therapy scholarships

• Resources for new parents

• School advocacy

And programs throughout the year that help individuals with Down syndrome build full, connected lives in their communities.

Will you walk with us?

The season of joy is here - and we couldn’t be more excited to invite you to a family-friendly Holiday Celebration WITH SANTA! All ages are welcome!

This festive afternoon is designed for everyone - families, friends, community members, and individuals of all abilities. Come enjoy a relaxed, welcoming space full of holiday cheer:

•  Photos with Santa in a low-key, disability-friendly setting

•  Holiday crafts + sensory play area

•  Cookie decorating

•  “Made with Heart” Gift Shop featuring beautiful creations by artisans with Down syndrome

•  Light refreshments - including gluten-free and sensory-friendly options

Whether you love festive crafts, are excited to meet Santa, or simply want to celebrate the season with community, this event is for you.

We hope you’ll join us for this joyful celebration - it won’t be the same without you!

Join DSANV at various locations throughout the region for informal meet-ups with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. All ages welcome! No registration required.

Questions?  Please contact our Regional Engagement Coordinators: Dana Laukhuf, Loudoun County - loudoun@dsanv.org; Anne Custer, Fairfax County - fairfax@dsanv.org; Erin Jones, Prince William County - princewilliam@dsanv.org.

Supporting Moms, Fostering Connection

Mom’s Night Out features get-togethers for moms of children with Down syndrome. Gather with friends to celebrate the joys of motherhood and support one another through the challenges. Come for good food, drinks, conversation, and fun. ALL are welcome - friends new and old! 

Check our calendar for the quarterly Mom’s Night Out dates.

Questions?  Please contact our Regional Engagement Coordinators: Dana Laukhuf, Loudoun County - loudoun@dsanv.org; Anne Custer, Fairfax County - fairfax@dsanv.org; Erin Jones, Prince William County - princewilliam@dsanv.org.

Get-togethers for male caregivers of children and adults with Down syndrome. These get-togethers feature good food/drinks, conversation, and fun. Come out for the evening and relax with friends - new and old! Attendees pay for their own food and drink.

Questions?  Please contact George Buzby at gbuzby@aol.com.