ACT Down Syndrome Association

The ACT Down Syndrome Association is a self -help organization which was formed in 1987. The aims of the Association are to provide support & information to families with a member who has Down syndrome, to promote improvements in the quality of life of persons with Down syndrome & to stimulate, within the wider community, an awareness of the very real abilities and needs, of people with Down Syndrome. The Association keeps regular contact with our members through a fortnightly e-newsletter. They also run their workshop program throughout the year for those working with children with Down syndrome to learn practical strategies and to support their learning and development. They have a small resource library that their members can borrow from in addition to providing members with a quarterly journal published by Down syndrome Australia. No government funding has been received by the association and is therefore dependent upon the support of community and business groups & individuals, supplemented by fundraising activities. The Objectives of the Association are 1) To provide support & information to parents & guardians of people with Down Syndrome. 2) To ensure that parents of babies with Down syndrome get all available information to assist them during the early period of their child’s life. 3) To stimulate interest and awareness of the community and the medical profession as to the needs and capabilities of people with Down syndrome. 4) To bring people with like needs together by Organizing social outing, Newsletters; and any other means. 5) To liaise with other interested groups in related fields. 6) To identify the needs of people with Down syndrome, and where appropriate to represent needs to Community and Government bodies. 7) To promote the development of educational facilities & programs for all people with Down syndrome in ACT, including early intervention programs, appropriate ongoing education and vocational training. 9) To encourage people with Down syndrome to develop self-confidence and self -esteem.