What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is the genetic condition resulting when a child is born with three rather than the usual two, copies of chromosome 21. Because there are three copies of chromosome 21, Down syndrome is also called trisomy 21. In a small percentage of cases, there is only an additional part of the chromosome 21. The cause of the extra chromosome (or part) is still unknown. This extra genetic material affects the cognition and development of the child, but is not a blueprint that determines his or her potential.
What is the mission of the Down Syndrome Association of Tallahassee?
The purpose of this organization is to provide support for people with Down Syndrome and their families. DSAT will serve as an advocacy group for the interests and concerns of persons with Down Syndrome and their families, and any other legal purpose. This organization serves the entire Big Bend area of Florida.
Our activities include:
Providing information to new parents on health and education related issues,
Promoting Community Awareness,
Ensuring updated information is available for the general public,
Assisting care providers (family, teachers, healthcare or otherwise) in achieving their desired outcomes,
Maintaining current resource contact information
It is our wish that all people with Down Syndrome have the opportunity to achieve their full potential in our community. At the same time, it is our hope to provide children and adults with Down syndrome in our community a peer group in which they can form lifelong friendships.
Parents, siblings, family members, individuals with Down syndrome, and anyone else interested in learning more are welcome to attend.
When and where are the meetings?
The Down Syndrome Association of Tallahassee usually meets on the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Good Sheperd Catholic Church, 4665 Thomasville Road, in room 312.
In addition, we host a Buddy Walk in October and hold other social and educational events. Please call or email prior to regular meeting for confirmation.
Directions to meeting site: Travel north on Highway 319 (Thomasville Road), 1.7 miles north of interstate 10. Church is on right side of road.
Related helpful links:
http://eteamz.active.com/challenger (Challenger Sports Website)
http://www.down-syndrome.info (Down Syndrome Information)
http://www.ndss.org (National Down Syndrome Society)
http://www.nas.com/downsyn (Down Syndrome Network)
http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/genetic/down_syndrome.html (Kid Health for Parents)

Welcome To The
Down Syndrome Association of Tallahassee

Serving the Big Bend of Florida