Before connecting with DSACF my family didn't know how to help my adult brother with Down Syndrome. He had graduated high school, was unemployed, dealing with the death of our father, lonely and withdrawn. Once we got involved with the DSACF we found other families like us and were provided access to amazing resources. He connected with other young people like him, we attended classes together to help enhance his life skills, and I received information and education that has been incredibly helpful to understand him and make his life better. He has been able to volunteer to work at annual events, like the Step Up walk, and made to feel like a contributing member to the planners. I'm forever grateful for the ways that DSACF has reached out to us as a family and held our hand the last few years...and I'm in utter admiration of the way they support new Down Syndrome families - helping eliminate fears and showing what a blessing these babies are. They're simply amazing.
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DSACF has been a godsend for me and my family. We have lived in Central Florida for over 20 years, and hadn't really sought out help for my adult brother with Down Syndrome. He had grown into a loner, and wasn't living his best life. Since we've come in contact with this agency, we have been invited to join them at special events, he has met new people, we have received educational and social assistance. We now have someone to ask when we don't know something about his health, benefits, opportunities. I'm so grateful for this agency, we are fortunate to have such an active and strong Down Syndrome association here in Central Florida!
This association is just incredible. The amount of support they provide is absolutely astounding and I love watching them make a difference in every life they touch. They truly are a remarkable group of individuals working together to create a supportive, unified community for those they serve. Absolutely love what they're doing for our community.
When our daughter, Holly, was born with Down syndrome, the diagnosis was a shock to us. We were unfamiliar with the genetic condition and completely overwhelmed. The Central Florida Down Syndrome Association was there for us within weeks of Holly's birth. We were introduced to a huge supportive community and a world of resources was laid at our feet. They have helped us navigate our new world in all aspects (medical, legal, emotional, and social). Most importantly, they are showing the world what we now know: people with Down syndrome are amazing! This organization continuously advocates for equality, opportunity, respect, and human rights. We are lucky to have them!
Everyone here is absolutely a gift from heaven. They helped make a young mans dream come true and everyone involved has said how our lives changed for the better.
Thank You all so much!!!!
Such an incredible organization that not only loves on families and children with Down syndrome through programs and support, but also brings awareness to the Central Florida community.
I found the DSACF at a very dark, and confusing time during my pregnancy. My son was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at 18 weeks gestation. My husband and I were lost as we didn't know much of anything about Down Syndrome. Google searches scared us and other's opinions were grim. Luckily, the DSACF was just a phone call away and welcomed us with open arms into a beautiful, bright community.
At the DSACF Success Center we've joined an infant/toddler play group which has helped us create friendships with other local parents. I've had the opportunity to team up with the Association and tell our story on many occasions in hopes that our struggle can help another family's new diagnosis.
We have found joy and happiness at the DSACF and consider them family. We owe everything to them for helping us raise our son properly.
WE LOVE THE DSACF!
Love this organization. Full of support great classes and courses. Affiliated with several sport events and groups. Entrepreneur academy. Social clubs. Dance music & art. A very important resource fir the Down syndrome Comunity.
Two years ago we received a birth diagnosis of Down syndrome for our daughter. When we found out about the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida we immediately connected with them and they welcomed us with open arms. They have become our family. They are such an amazing organization that does so many wonderful things for our kids. I don't know what I would do without them. They offer support, guidance, a shoulder to lean on. We have made life long friends with the families we have met and enjoy being able to go the events that the DSACF host. Thank you for all you do for our kids!!!
The Down Syndrome Association provides services and advocacy for people with Down syndrome across the life span. The organization goes above and beyond for its members and works to create a community that supports and encourages each other. I cannot say enough good things about this organization.
We moved to central Florida a year ago. Our biggest concern was that our 27 year old daughter was not happy with the move. Thanks to the DSACF, she has become CEO of her business Doggy Delights by Allison. She has made new friends and has adjusted to our new life. THANK YOU DSACF!
There are so many great programs, education, and social opportunities for families with a loved one with Down syndrome of any age! Thank you DSACF for all you do!
The Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida has been designed to be a first stop for anyone that is impacted by Down Syndrome - from the moment a diagnosis occurs or any point along someones journey. From parent support groups and sibling groups to medical conferences and job experience, this organization goes out of their way on a regular basis to make an impact. And they do it with far less than other organizations. From parents to the community, DSACF leaves a positive long lasting impact. I encourage others to volunteer, participate, donate and invest in this amazing organization!
DSACF is amazing and does a tremendous job of helping individuals and families of individuals with Down syndrome in the central Florida area.
The DSACF offers so many amazing programs, in all types of developmental areas (physical, social, intellectual, etc.) all year long. Everything from sports to dance class to potty training courses to seminars about educational and legal rights. Staff is so supportive as is their community. Don’t know what our family would do without them.
DSACF is an amazing organization that has benefited my daughter and family immensely!!! The support and educational programs it has provided is second-to-none!
In one capacity or another, I’ve been involved with Central Florida Down Syndrome Association for nearly twenty years. I can say, without a doubt, that I have never met a group of people that is as dedicated, kind, loving, and supportive as the staff of CFDSA.
We support the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida for being inclusive, forward thinking and helpful to everyone who contacts them. Their warm and generous hearts can be seen by anyone whose lives they have touched. Thank you for being so amazing.
Three years ago our daughter got a prenatal diagnosis of Down Syndrome for her baby. It turned all of our world's upside down, and the DSACF was invaluable in putting it right side up again. Over those three years we have made strong friendships with other members and attended so many valuable events/seminars etc. including sign language classes, medical clinics, educational strategy sessions. Every one of them has helped us to help our grandson, and we heartily recommend their work.
DSACF is a wonderful organization! Whether you are looking for membership or volunteer opportunities, they always exceed expectations and are always looking for ways to help the community!
The DSACF reached out to us 17 years ago when my daughter was born. They have been there for our family for support from day one. I thank God everyday for their leadership and support.
DSACF has been a phenomenal support throughout the lifespan of people with Down Syndrome. I love the sense of community and friendships that have been formed here. The future is so bright for new families!
I started volunteering with DSACF a few months after my granddaughter was born with Down syndrome. It has given me the education and the awareness to advocate for her. This organization really cares for the families in Central Florida who have special needs. The organization has grown since the DS population has grown -- mainly because the life expectancy of those with DS has expanded.
I can't say enough good things about DSACF!
Since the day my daughter was born (19 years ago), this ASSOCIATION has always been there for us. There has always been someone there who could either answer my question or guide me to the right place. I have been able to participate in a variety of programs... from baby playgroups to Employment & Entrepreneurship and everything in between to help maximize her potential. They have ALWAYS BELIEVED IN EVERY CHILD'S POTENTIAL and encouraged inclusion throughout the community. The leadership is phenomenal! Not only is the CEO a well-qualified business woman in the non-profit world, but she is also a fellow mother of a child with Down syndrome. One of the best Down syndrome organizations in the country!
Lynn