The Down Syndrome Association of Connecticut (DS ACT), originally the Connecticut Down Syndrome Congress (CDSC), started in 1986 by a group of parents wishing to improve the opportunities available to their children with Down syndrome. We now serve more than 400 member families statewide by supporting and empowering individuals and families who live with Down syndrome through friendship, education and advocacy.
Our mission is to improve the lives of people with Down syndrome, by promoting equity, opportunities, inclusion, and by empowering them and their families in all aspects of life.
First Call We train volunteers to support new and expectant parents and we share information with the medical community.
Sibling First Call We train volunteers to provide mentoring and support to the siblings of individuals with Down syndrome across the lifespan.
First Steps We provide one-to-one IEP mentoring to DS ACT members in collaboration with the Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center.
DS ACT Advocacy Avengers We facilitate a group for teens and adults who live with Down syndrome where they can practice social, advocacy and independent living skills in a fun, affirming and thought-provoking environment.
DS ACT Literacy and Education Center An initiative to support individuals with a Down syndrome learning profile through one-to-one and small group tutoring. The Center also provides academic evaluations, professional development and support to Connecticut school districts and training and research opportunities.
DS ACT Mini-Grants We financially support opportunities for community integration and inclusion of individuals who live with Down syndrome.
DS ACT Camp Grants DS ACT families are granted up to $500 to defray the cost of summer camp for their loved one with Down syndrome. This provides an opportunity for independence for the individual and a form of respite for caregivers.
Family Support Groups We hold social events for our members, and sponsor a network of regionally-based family support groups.
Family Hardship Support Committee Utilizing personal donations, personal connections and some DS ACT resources, the committee provides highly individualized “under the radar” support to families in need ranging from those encountering financial hardship to those with a loved one in the hospital who need a small pick-me-up.
DS ACT Step Up For Down Syndrome Walk Committee The Step Up For Down Syndrome Walk is our primary fundraiser and our largest public event. It celebrates the potential of people who live with Down syndrome and raises awareness.
DS ACT Rock Your Socks 5k Committee We are planning an inaugural 5k/10k fundraiser to support our Literacy Center.
DS ACT Awareness Committee We host public events celebrating the potential and accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome in October and on World Down Syndrome Day; we facilitate donations of books about Down syndrome to schools and libraries; and we use social media campaigns to raise awareness.
Annual Convention and Workshops We educate and advocate for best practices in medical, educational and therapeutic interventions through workshops and an annual statewide convention.
DS ACT Social Media Team We foster communication and share information, using our website, social media and an e-newsletter.
DS ACT 800 Line We provide phone support to anyone in Connecticut with a concern related to Down syndrome.
Mailing address is DS ACT, 60 Peter Court, New Britain, CT 06051
Telephone: 888-486-8537. www.mydsact.org EIN: 06-1176478
