DSALA is committed to building a strong, supportive community among individuals with Down syndrome, their parents, parents-to be, extended families, friends, stakeholders, service providers, and supporters in the Greater Los Angeles area. We strive to be the connection hub and primary source of information, resources, and referrals for our DSALA community and the Los Angeles community at large. We are working to bring about the systemic changes required to ensure a high quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome.

Our programs and services are designed to achieve the following goals:

• Provide support and resources for the DSALA community.
• Provide access to opportunities to build skills and promote growth, learning and independence.
• Facilitate socialization opportunities to increase sense of belonging for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and friends.
• Build alliances with other Down syndrome organizations and support groups.
• Support the development of more opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome.
• Promote the well-being and advancement of individuals with Down syndrome through advocacy and outreach.

The staff and board members of the DSALA continue to develop the organization’s capacity to:

• Provide leadership;
• Build relationships;
• Gather and disseminate information and resources;
• Develop and support volunteer leaders and mentors;
• Support implementation of parent group solutions and outreach; and
• Provide systems and tools to connect, inform, and empower our community of individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and other stakeholders.

Get Involved! Share Your Talent!

Share Your Resources - Send us the contact information for the service referrals and information resources that have helped you and your family. We will include them on our Resource List, our website, or in our email blasts so that others can benefit from your positive experiences.

Share Your Skills and Talents with the DSALA - Let us know if you are able to donate time and expertise to groups, individuals, or an event. Skills and talents include public speaking, health specialties, computer and web skills, court reporting, cooking, sewing, instructing an activity - anything that can be shared to help others, assist the DSALA, and/or build a skill set for individuals with Down syndrome.

Start Your Own Parent Interest Group - Bring people together around issues and activities of mutual interest. Contact our office to connect with others about this topic or interest in a skill-building class and to get the support you need to make this happen.

Give Us Your Suggestions - You know what works for your family, what you need, and what others may have trouble finding. Please email or call with these ideas and suggestions. We need you to make our community strong and effective.

Contact DSALA: Call, email, write or visit.