Resources
learn about Down syndrome and get involved with the communityOrganizations
GiGi's Playhouse
With over 50 brick and mortar locations across the US and Mexico, GiGi’s Playhouse is the only network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers that provide free, life-changing therapeutic, educational and career training programs for individuals with Ds and their families. Find one in a city near you.
National Down Syndrome Adoption Network
The NDSAN is a free connection point between expectant or birth families and adoptive families. They work to ensure that every child with Down syndrome has the chance to grow up in a loving family. Reach out if you’re interested in domestic Ds adoption.
Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network
The DSDN supports new and expectant parents with a Down syndrome diagnosis, and provided accurate information to the medical professionals who serve them. Through online support groups and retreats, they foster connections between groups of individuals parenting a child with Down syndrome.
Jack's Basket
Jack’s Basket celebrates babies with Down syndrome by providing gifts and resources to new parents, as well educating medical professionals on the best way to deliver a Ds diagnosis. If you know someone who has just received a Ds diagnosis, request a basket.
Reece's Rainbow
Reece’s Rainbow advocates for orphans with Down syndrome and other special needs by raising awareness and funding adoption grants. They are not an adoption agency, but have helped bring over 2,200 children home since their start in 2006. Check them out to learn about international Ds adoption.
The Lucky Few
“As the mother of three adopted children – two with Down syndrome – Heather Avis has learned that it’s truly the lucky few who get to live a life like hers, who actually recognize that God’s plans are best, even when they seem so radically different from the plans we have for ourselves.”
Bloom
“Kelle Hampton interweaves lyrical prose and stunning four-color photography as she recounts the unforgettable story of the first year in the life of her daughter Nella, who has Down syndrome. Poignant, eye-opening, and heart-soaring, Hampton’s Bloom is ultimately about embracing life and really living it.”
Extraordinary
“Extraordinary: Stories of Adopting Children With Down Syndrome will introduce you to thirteen families who, with God’s help, said “YES!” to the most rewarding journey of their lives. Inside these pages, you will catch a glimpse of the struggles, the successes, and the unspeakable joy they experienced as they welcomed a child with Down syndrome into their forever family.”
Eli, Included
“Eli, Included is a children’s picture book about a boy named Eli who has Down syndrome. This book is perfect for any classroom, whether there is a child with Down syndrome in the class or not. This book is to help the next generation see that everyone has value and something to offer.”
You Are Enough: A Book About Inclusion
“This inclusive and empowering picture book from Sofia Sanchez, an 11-year-old model and actress with Down syndrome reminds readers how important it is to embrace your differences, be confident, and be proud of who you are. Imagine all of the wonderful things you can do if you don’t let anyone stop you! You are enough just how you are.” Sofia was adopted from Ukraine as a baby.
Advocate Like a Mother Podcast
Hosted by Michelle Sullivan, Ileana Sosa, and Andy Lara, the Advocate Like a Mother Podcast shares stories of advocates in the Down syndrome and disability communities and beyond. They hope to empower and equip listeners to use their voice to advocate for themselves or their loved one.
A Little Something Extra Podcast
Hosted by the founder of GiGi’s Playhouse, and her daughter and inspiration, who has Down syndrome, “every episode of A Little Something Extra will feature guests, who have accomplished the impossible and have changed the world! Be prepared to find yourself motivated with every installment from a wide range of guests.”
The Lucky Few Podcast
“Welcome to The Lucky Few Podcast where we are shifting the narrative by shouting the worth of people with Down syndrome. With your hosts, Heather Avis, Micha Boyett, and Mercedes Lara.” Listen to episodes about health, education, and advocacy, all as it relates to their children with Down syndrome.