Our mission is to provide support to Wisconsin families and individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities through awareness, education, information, programs, services, and the exchange of ideas and experiences. We specifically serve La Crosse, Monroe, Juneau, Adams, and Vernon counties. We are a chapter of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin. DSAW’s vision is that we all understand the value of those with Down syndrome and other disabilities in our lives and our communities. To meet this vision, we continue to strive toward full acceptance, full access, full potential, and a full life to make Wisconsin the best supported state for people with Down syndrome and their loved ones. We do this through the following programming:
Medical Outreach – recent advancements in prenatal testing have resulted in skyrocketing termination rates for fetuses with Down syndrome as balanced and unbiased information struggles to keep pace. DSAW conducts medical professional trainings around the state on delivering an unbiased, accurate and compassionate Down syndrome diagnosis, understanding a prenatal diagnosis, improving effective communication between healthcare professionals and parents, and improving access to resources. Our fraternal and advocacy support programs help individuals, parents and families find the fraternal support they need through all stages of life. With DSAW’s chapter system, families across the state can find communities to meet their needs. DSAW Family Services provides private, public, and IRIS (Include Respect I Self-Direct) supported services to adults and young adults with Down syndrome, other disabilities and their families to achieve a full and independent life in the community. Services include: personalized goal development; identification of benefits, housing, employment, transportation and caregiving assistance to achieve our client’s goals; crisis and back-up support; budget coordination and implementation of the final support plan; as well as social connections and support circles. Parent’s First Call offers information about Down syndrome for expectant and new parents; the opportunity to talk with other parents about emotions and questions; support groups; assistance navigating medical and early intervention services; referrals to local and national resources, and much more. DSAW also provides “new parent packs” and “welcome baskets” to all new and expectant parents. In 2016, we are expanding the Parent’s First Call Program to include a statewide, 24/7 hotline that parents can call to access resources and support. Ongoing Parental Support and Customized Programming from Birth through Adulthood – whether it’s help in navigating the Birth-to-3 system, advocating for appropriate medical care, support with potty training, motor skills, speech, developing a robust Individualized Education Plan when entering the school system, formulating a plan for post-high school transition services or older adult aging services, or maybe just learning how to ride a bike, DSAW has a program to help. Since 2010, DSAW has conducted School Peer Sensitivity Trainings at more than 80 schools, reaching more than 8,000 students. This presentation is designed to raise awareness and promote acceptance of all disabilities. DSAW also provides techniques on how to include children with special needs in school activities and answer any questions students have about disabilities. Grants/Scholarships and Financial Resources for member families – families with a child with Down syndrome facing a long hospital stay can access DSAW for support with meal assistance; families can also access DSAW for financial assistance with therapies, communication devices, or educational programs; and individuals with Down syndrome can receive grants to help pay for school or vocational training. DSAW proves that young adults with Down syndrome and other disabilities today CAN live in their own homes, work in the community, own their own businesses and have rich and rewarding, meaningful lives. We are helping to make that happen more and more every day.
