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- The National Down Syndrome Society was founded in 1979 by Elizabeth Goodwin and Arden Moulton, following the birth of Elizabeth's daughter Carson, who has Down syndrome.
- The National Down Syndrome Society envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to realize their life aspirations. We are committed to being the national leader in supporting and enhancing the quality of life, and realizing the potential of all people with Down syndrome.
- The mission of NDSS is to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families through national leadership in education, research and advocacy.
- Our activities include:
- Developing and disseminating quality educational materials and programs.
- Initiating and advancing basic, clinical and applied research.
- Shaping and advocating for improved public policy, increased public resources and services for people with Down syndrome.
- Working in partnership with our affiliates and other support organizations.
- We have over 200 affiliate groups across the country. These affiliates are local parent support groups and other organizations that work on behalf of people with Down syndrome and their families.
- NDSS is one of the largest non-government supporters of Down syndrome research in the United States. Since its inception, the Society has provided more than $2.8 million towards advancing knowledge about Down syndrome, supporting the work of more than 45 scientists.
- NDSS is governed by a 23-member board of directors comprised of self-advocates, affiliates, parents, professionals and community members from across the country. NDSS also benefits from the expertise of several advisory boards, including:
- Affiliate Advisory Board
- Clinical Advisory Board
- National Advisory Board
- Self-Advocate Advisory Board
- Science Advisory Board
- The NDSS staff is comprised of 20 full-time professionals and a three-person policy team that directs legislative advocacy efforts.
- NDSS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that raises funds from individuals, corporations, foundations and special events. In 2005, the annual budget was greater than $3,500,000 with 83% of the NDSS budget going directly to support program services.
- To learn more about NDSS and its programs and services, visit http://www.ndss.org.
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