We Are Here to Help
The Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville helps families assemble the building blocks necessary at every step of development as they construct a fulfilling life for their child. These blocks are comprised of emotional support, information, education and connection opportunities. The Lil Starz Group is designed to assist new and expectant parents as they begin their journey of caring for their baby in each of these areas. Typically, parents are looking for support with issues related to gross motor skill development, transition into kindergarten, communication skill development and social connections. We offer a variety of programs, information and support to families with children ages birth to five years old and continuing into adulthood.
Newborn to Age 5
Families of Young Children Sharing Ideas,
Information and Friendship
The Lil’ Stars group is geared towards parents expecting a baby with Down syndrome and parents of children that are newborn to age five. The children, siblings and grandparents are welcome and encouraged to attend. We also encourage and promote all members to attend these meetings. Although the focus is on our newest and youngest members, we can all benefit from getting to know one another and sharing knowledge. Our meetings are informal and often include a guest speaker on topics of interest to the group. There is also time to socialize and enjoy being with each other’s children.
Please come and share your ideas, support and parenting ideas with others. This group is led by Desiree Jomant. Contact Debbie Revels at the DSAJ office at 904.353.6300 or via email to be added to the contact list.
Shining Stars
Ages 6-12
DSAJ’s Shining Stars group is comprised of children between the ages of 6 and 12. The group’s purpose is to provide social and informational activities throughout the course of the year for both the children and their families. The children enjoy the fun activities, which are designed to enhance physical and social development. We encourage parents, grandparents, family members and friends to attend as well. Periodically, we bring speakers and educators in to discuss various topics that are helpful and keep our members up to date.
This group is led by Cheryl English. Contact Debbie Revels at the DSAJ office at 904.353.6300 or via email to be added to the contact list.
Teen Group
Teen Group Ages 13-17
DSAJ’s Teen Group is alive and well. Fun outings are planned for those ages 13 – 17 with Down syndrome to meet and enjoy each other’s company while participating in a range of activities. The purpose of this group is to provide socialization within the community and opportunities for friendships to develop. Join us to make friends, develop confidence & self-esteem, practice social skills and most of all – HAVE FUN!
The group is led by Dani Frei. Contact Debbie Revels at the DSAJ office at 904.353.6300 or via email to be added to the contact list. Parents are encouraged to drop off their teens to foster independence and to give both the parent and teen respite!
Adult Group
Ages 18 & Up
This Group is an awesome group of friends. We provide a safe, supervised way for young adults with Down syndrome to meet and enjoy each other’s company while participating in a range of activities. The purpose of this group is to provide socialization within the community and opportunities for friendships to develop. Join us to make friends, develop confidence and self-esteem, practice social skills and, most of all, HAVE FUN!
This group is led by Desiree Jomant. Contact Debbie Revels at the DSAJ office at 904.353.6300 or via email to be added to the contact list.
Northern Stars
Nassau & Camden Counties
This group is designed for fun. We encourage all of our members who live in Nassau County or Camden County to participate in the socials planned for this group. This group is led by Vanessa Brock and Desiree Jomant. Contact Debbie Revels at the DSAJ office at 904.353.6300 or via email to be added to the contact list.
Southern Stars
Are you in St. Johns or Clay County?
This group is forming now to plan fun activities for those in St. Johns’s County and Clay County. This group will be led by Joanne Alicea. Contact Debbie Revels at the DSAJ office at 904.353.6300 or via email to be added to the contact list.