Welcome
to the home of the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas!

The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas provides accurate and current information, resources and support for people with Down syndrome, their families and the community.

Vision: People with Down Syndrome - valued and included.

What is the Vision of the DSG? People with Down syndrome - valued and included.

What is Down syndrome? Down syndrome is caused by a chromosomal difference resulting in a wide variation in mental abilities, behavior and physical development. Down syndrome is the leading cause of cognitive disability in the world; it is not related to race, religion, nationality or socio-economic status. Down syndrome is sometimes associated with heart defects or congenital disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, most of which are correctable by surgery

Who is Served by the DSG? We serve individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community, including educators, health professionals and others.

What Services Does the DSG Provide? The DSG offers parent-to-parent support to families with new babies, young children, school age children, and adults with Down syndrome through personal visits, information packets, and/or quarterly informative gatherings. A trained Guild member is part of the team at the Down Syndrome Clinic at Children's Medical Center who assists families with new babies and young children. Monthly newsletters contain information about area activities and services, as well as articles on medical, educational, developmental, and social topics. The DSG has an extensive free lending library with current books and information for members. The DSG hosts an annual conference with nationally recognized speakers that is attended by parents, educators, and health professionals. Each year the DSG offers a series of clinics to help families with various aspects of life with a child with Down syndrome. Volunteers advocate at every opportunity for greater inclusion of people with Down syndrome in the community. Printed material is translated into Spanish including the monthly newsletter entirely in Spanish. Translators are provided at events when requested. Social events, such as our annual family picnic, "Snackin' with Santa," teen parties, and over-21 activities provide opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and their families to socialize in a safe and fun atmosphere.

How Many Families Does the DSG Serve? As of October, 2006, the DSG maintains a database of over 1000 families to whom we provide information and support

Who Governs, Administers and Monitors the DSG? We are a tax-exempt non-profit corporation under section 501(c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Service Code. The DSG is monitored by its Board, consisting of parents of children with Down syndrome, community business leaders, social service agency representatives, and self-advocates. In 2005, the DSG made remarkable changes. The DSG hired its first full-time employee, our Executive Director, and opened an office. Prior to this, volunteers performed all functions. Volunteers continue to be a vital integral part of the organization's management and mission activities. The DSG has an annual financial audit performed by an independent accounting firm.

How Long Has the DSG Been in the Community? The organization was started in 1978 by a group of mothers of young children with Down syndrome. The March of Dimes provided a meeting space and The Arc of Dallas provided initial funding for the newsletter.

How is the DSG Funded? Family membership dues cover less than 10% of the DSG's programs. Because Down syndrome impacts all socio-economic levels, dues are intentionally kept affordable. Additional funds are received from grants, donations and fundraising.

What is the DSG's Community Impact? The DSG is the only local non-profit group solely dedicated to providing support and resources to individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the greater Dallas community. The DSG was instrumental in the establishment of the Down Syndrome Clinic at Children's Medical Center. The Down Syndrome Guild was the 2001 Outstanding Volunteer Group Award recipient from the Volunteer Center of Dallas County.

What Community Groups Have Supported the DSG's Work? The DSG receives donations of money and volunteer time from many individuals, community groups and businesses. Recent corporate sponsors include: