I have a son with Down syndrome, and, for years, have been involved with the DSAM of Memphis in one way or another, from simply being a parent in need of advice or services, to volunteering, and working as a photographer for their many events. The Down Syndrome Association has a host of outings to promote networking opportunities for families, socialization for kids and adults alike, and to provide much needed information about matters such as financial, medical and educational paths appropriate for our children with DS. My son is now highly involved, attends self-advocacy classes that are offered every Monday, adult reading classes on Wednesdays, and most recently started working as an intern at the office where he can use his abilities in a large way. In my experience, I have seen many families in need that have been helped with newborn concerns, school issues, and adult matters that would otherwise not have a place to reach out to. For us, this organization has been a blessing.
DSAM is a great non-profit organization to work for plus volunteer!! I have been associated with the Down Syndrome Association for over 10 years.
The purpose of this organization is to promote public awareness of individuals with Down syndrome that they are "more alike than different" through inclusion in schools, the workplace & the community. DSAM provides reading, tutoring, training in life skills, social events & educational training to empower individuals and their families to be successful in life.
The Down Syndrome Association of Memphis has served my family and child with Down syndrome since he was a baby. When we first moved to Memphis, we were welcomed with open arms here and support through everything from buying a home in a good area to finding doctors to finding new friends.
During hospital stays, we had visits from people at the DSAM bringing meals and care packages. They were our family here when we had no one else around.
We have had the opportunity to attend several workshops and learn from leading experts on Down syndrome that have helped our son through potty training, learning to read, improving his behavior, and getting what we needed through our school district.
When I needed help in IEP meetings, the director was there to support me, help me know what to ask for and how to say it, and listen when I needed a shoulder to cry on.
We have loved being a part of this community and the work they are doing to empower and support families and individuals with Down syndrome.
I am a mom and a board member and I have been with the Down Syndrome Association for 17 years as many capacities. The Down Syndrome Association is a wonderful organization that has given my family so much. They are a second family to us. The DSAM has many programs my family has been in such as reading camps, IEP workshops, First Responders Workshop, Down Syndrome Conferences and more. The best part as a family we have volunteered to help the next generation of families coming up.