In January, the Board came together to create the 2008 DSACT Strategic Plan. Through this process, we set our organizational priorities and determined where we want DSACT to go over the next year and beyond.

The Strategic Plan (Plan) marks an important point in our history. DSACT has transitioned from a parent support group to an organization of dedicated and professional members who create and manage valuable programs and services for families in the Central Texas area, as well as provide parent support. The Plan sets forth our goals for 2008 and provides a framework for years to come. DSACT believes in the potential and worth of individuals with Down syndrome. We proclaim their achievements and celebrate the joy they bring to the lives of their families and friends. Through specific outreach efforts, we hope to raise the awareness level and the expectations of others in the Central Texas community, particularly professionals in the education and health care fields. Most importantly, the Plan attempts to address current issues that face all families of individuals with Down syndrome and sets forth strategies for DSACT:

♦ Individuals with Down syndrome need a quality education which will prepare them for independent living, further education, and employment. DSACT will empower parents and educate school professionals to raise the bar for public education.

♦ Adults with Down syndrome need opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the community and to live with dignity. DSACT will raise awareness about research and the opportunities for adults with Down syndrome to volunteer, be employed, and live
independently or in a group home if they choose.

♦ Parents of individuals with Down syndrome need current information and research. DSACT will be the leader in the dissemination of information and resources about
topics such as estate planning and guardianship, sexuality, nutrition, and research.

♦ DSACT will educate health care professionals about the medical needs of individuals with Down syndrome, as well as the need to present balanced information at diagnosis.

The Plan discusses the need for growth in certain priority areas. A critical area of growth for DSACT is manpower. DSACT relies on the efforts of volunteers for the success of our programs. Over 200 DSACT volunteers donated over 6,300 hours in 2007, a value to
DSACT of over $113,000. However, most volunteers are parents and the demands on their time are high. Volunteer turn-over and burn-out must be addressed. In 2008, DSACT will hire a temp on a trial basis to staff the DSACT office, provide administrative support, and work on high priority strategic goals. If successful, DSACT will pursue hiring and/or grants to hire permanent administrative staff or an Executive Director.

DSACT is entering an exciting new phase of growth. It is our goal to be seen as the top nonprofit for all issues related to Down syndrome in the Central Texas community, and to serve as a resource for parents, educators, health care professionals, and the general
public alike.

To see a copy of the Strategic Plan, see our website at www.dsact.com or visit the files section of the DSACT Yahoo group.