PROGRAMS
The Flower City Down Syndrome Network offers several groups and programs to support our member families.
Our Parent Support Meetings and Social Groups offer parents and caregivers the opportunity to learn more about Down syndrome and how best to support their child (or children) by talking with medical experts and with other parents.
Well wishes are available upon request, as well as Special Services such as interpreters or gluten-free needs.
WELCOME BASKETS
Are you a new or expectant parent of a child with Down syndrome? If so, congratulations! FCDSN would love to connect with you, to welcome you, to share what resources and support we offer, and to connect you to other families. We look forward to hearing from you.
SOCIAL GROUPS
Four, age-appropriate groups offering organized events in the community including movie night, glow golfing, a day at the farm, horseback riding, swimming, bowling and so much more!
Birth - 5 years of age
6 - 11 years of age
12 - 17 years of age
18+ years of age
REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAMS
Helping our member families with reimbursement of items such as Down syndrome-related conference fees, items and services related to social and recreational opportunities, and media resources such as educational materials (books, videos).
MOM’S SUPPORT GROUP
One of the best ways to meet other parents is to get involved in a local Down syndrome parent support group. This Mom Support Group through FCDSN can provide you with an excellent forum for sharing your feelings and concerns as a new parent, and an opportunity to learn from the experiences of others who have been in your shoes.
Learning more about Down syndrome can also help ease some of your uncertainty and start gaining knowledge. In addition to providing emotional support, other parents can recommend useful Down syndrome resources and help you understand the new terminology.
Not to mention, offering social events including dinners and movie nights!
DAD’S SUPPORT GROUP
And Dad's need support too! This Dad Support Group through FCDSN can provide you with an excellent forum for connecting with other fathers in similar situations.
Learning more about Down syndrome can also help ease some of your uncertainty and start gaining knowledge. In addition to providing support, other parents can recommend useful Down syndrome resources and help you understand the new terminology.
Join the dads on dinner night!
Starting in 2023, the Flower City Down Syndrome Network is proud to announce the establishment of two endowed scholarships dedicated to supporting aspiring special education teachers and therapists. Each year, one deserving student at Nazareth University and another at Roberts Wesleyan University will be awarded these scholarships. These initiatives aim to empower students who are committed to serving individuals with disabilities, including our loved ones with Down syndrome.
FCDSN PROVIDER SCHOLARSHIP
In recognizing the pressing need for qualified special education professionals, FCDSN's scholarships serve to encourage and reward students entering these vital fields. Through this commitment, we actively contribute to addressing the shortage of specialized educators and therapists, ensuring that individuals with special needs receive the comprehensive support they deserve.
ADOPTING
Special Needs Adoption information is available for those families considering adoption of a child with Down syndrome. Several FCDSN member families are available to offer support, as they have adopted their own children with Down syndrome.
LOCAL
A group whose mission is to rescue orphans with Down syndrome through the gift of adoption, to raise awareness for all of the children who are waiting in 25 countries around the world, and to raise funds as adoption grants that help adoptive families afford the high cost of adopting these beautiful children.
NATIONAL
The National Down Syndrome Adoption Network
The National Down Syndrome Adoption Network have a registry of families from all over the United States who are interested in adopting a child with Down syndrome within the US. There are no fees for their services, and they help with private and public adoptions in the US.