Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville
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About DSAJ

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Our Mission

The Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville (DSAJ) is a non-profit organization committed to helping people with Down syndrome achieve their full potential and to helping create a community that is educated, supportive, and inclusive of individuals with Down syndrome.

Vision Statement

We envision a community where all people with Down syndrome are actively included, given opportunities to participate and contribute as valued citizens, and have the choice to create their own path to fulfillment and success.

History

In 1989, the Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville was founded by a handful of families who recognized the need to have a support group in the Jacksonville community. The focus was, and continues to be, to provide awareness and education and to help individuals with Down syndrome reach their potential. Our association has continued to grow with over 1,500 individuals, families and community members.

Current Events

Thank you!

The DSAJ is proud to announce that the Jacksonville Kayak Fishing Classic raised over $35K for our association. Thank you to the 400+ anglers who came out on May 11th and May 12th to support the DSAJ. Mike and Michelle Kogan along with their children and many volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure the success of the tournament. Our appreciation is extended to everyone who participated in this event. The DSAJ continues to provide many programs and services to our families because of your generosity.

Calling all DADS!!

The DSAJ is proud to announce that we are forming a group especially for Dads. Please plan to attend the kickoff meeting on June 7th at Cantina Laredo. Gisli Magnusson, father to Penelope Grace will be the DSAJ coordinator. Joe Meares form D.A.D.S. National will be presenting and sharing information on how to form our local group. It is imperative that we have enough Dads representing the DSAJ at this meeting. Please click here for all the details.

Please send in your RSVP to gmagnusson_7@msn.com by May 15th or call Gisli at 553-5544 for more information.

Upcoming Events

A full calendar of events will be posted soon. In the meantime, please save the date for the following events:

May 19, 2012: Lil Stars Graduation/Social. 10am-12pm. Read more.

May 19, 2012: Shining Stars Firehouse Tour - 11am-1pm. Read more.

June 1, 2012: Dream Night at the Zoo - 4pm-9pm. Details to follow.

June 23, 2012: Lil' Stars Sunshine Park Outing - 10am-12pm. Details to follow.

August 11, 2012: Lil' Stars Social/Pool Party - 10am-12pm. Details to follow.

November 3, 2012: DSAJ Buddy Walk®

View Full Calendar Here

 

Professional Resources
Information for PhysiciansNDSC

The National Down Syndrome Congress has created a guide to assist physicians facing the challenge of informing parents that a child has or may have Down syndrome. For this invaluable guide,
click here
.

Information Packets are Available

Informational packets for parents are provided by the DSAJ at all local Jacksonville hospitals. These packets offer local resource information as well as valuable support information. They are available on the Obstetrics floor of the hospital. You may also contact us at 904.353.6300 or email us to have one delivered directly to you.

Presentations to Medical Community

The Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville gives presentations to the medical community on best practices for delivering the diagnosis of Down syndrome. We would be glad to present to you and your staff. Please contact us if you are interested.

Sharing the News

Download our Sharing the News brochure here. This may be helpful to you and your staff.