Founded in 1979, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions. The organization’s work is achieved through three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Advocacy & Policy, and Community Engagement.
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Our mission is to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions.
The NDSS Advocacy and Policy Program champions federal, state, and local policies that positively impact all people with Down syndrome across the country. Through our advocacy, NDSS works with Congress federal agencies, and state and local officials to develop and improve laws, regulations, and policies for the benefit of the Down syndrome community. NDSS also empowers self-advocates, families, and others to influence policy themselves. View our policy priorities by topic below or click to jump to your topic of interest to the right.
The National Down Syndrome Society’s (NDSS) Education Program works to develop a continuum of systems-level support for students with Down syndrome and their families. We believe access to education is a civil right, and the opportunity to learn is the key to a fulfilling life and the foundation of an equitable society. In pursuit of our mission to advance inclusive education across the country, the NDSS education team provides resources, programming, and support for families, educators, and advocates. We work to influence policy at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure that people with Down syndrome can access the education to which they are entitled and that the quality of that education is continually improved.
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Click here for Inclusive Education Guidelines.