Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas Home Page

VISION ~ The vision of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas is a world in which all members, including those with Down syndrome, are accepted, valued for their uniqueness, respected for their abilities and contributions, and assured the opportunity and choice to create their own path to fulfillment and success.

MISSION ~ The mission of DSACT is to provide education, support, and resources to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, professionals, and the community while building public awareness and acceptance of the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome.

2010 Share the Passion Calendar IS HERE! Click Here to Order Your Calendars Now! 2010 Share the Passion Calendar Gala Photos are here!

Save the Date: February 14, 2010

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for the 2010 Austin Marathon DSACT Water Stop

Once again, DSACT has been chosen to take part in the Austin Marathon (26 Miles for 26 Charities) program. We need your help to make it as successful as last year.

What: Volunteers to hand-out water to runners
When: Morning of February 14, 2010
Why: Spread awareness for DSACT, support our local athletes, see friends, and receive a free t-shirt

For more information or to take part, please contact Michelle Garel: mich_garel@sbcglobal.net / 512-799-7943

Introducing DSACT's 2008 Annual Report
click here

DSACT's annual report is now available and presents a snapshot or our key accomplishments and activities in 2008.

We all have dreams – for ourselves, our children and our community. Many years ago, a group of Central Texas parents got together to share their dreams for support, more opportunities and increased services for their children and a more inclusive community. The Down Syndrome Support Group was born. In 1991, another Board expanded that dream by obtaining 501(c)(3) status and formally incorporating the organization as the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas (DSACT).

Today, DSACT proactively represents and serves over 500 individuals with Down syndrome in the Central Texas area. We still have dreams, but now we also empower individuals, educate families, and celebrate the extraordinary lives of people with Down syndrome. We set goals and work to create more opportunities in our Central Texas community. We actively create a better tomorrow for all people with Down syndrome by providing valuable services to approximately 60 school districts, 400 educators, 175 obstetricians and genetic counselors, and over 260 congregations.

The dreams included throughout the annual report sum up why DSACT was created and why we continue to grow and succeed. There are still – and always will be - challenges along the way. DSACT will be there to provide support, resources, and a helping hand.

We invite you to share the journey of our amazing members with Down syndrome. Whether it be time, talent or treasure, DSACT continues to turn dreams into realities because of the generous contributions of supporters like you. On behalf of our members with Down syndrome and their families, please accept our humble and heartfelt thanks.

DSACT Proudly Presents:

"Down Syndrome in the 21st Century"

DSACT is pleased to release our new video "Down Syndrome in the 21st Century." This video profiles individuals with Down syndrome from infancy through adulthood doing remarkable things and contributing to their families and communities in ways that were not thought possible ten or twenty years ago.

The video is ideal for new or expectant parents, educators, physicians or other health care professionals, and the community, and provides a current, first-hand view of individuals with Down syndrome today.

The video features only people from Central Texas, and we had no idea when we started how many stars we have right here in the Austin area!

DSACT thanks all those who helped with the production of the video, as well as those featured in the video. It was a labor of love.

Special thanks to: Jennifer Ayres, Ph.D. Adam Barta, M.D. Lisa Clemons, M.D. Rose Hansen Smith Deborah Lewis Berndt Mader Lizzie Martinez Chris Simon, R.N. Ben Steinbauer The Bear Media

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