Celebrating 50 Years of Empowerment💛💙💛
A Legacy of Advocacy and Inclusion
In 1975, fifteen visionary parents came together with a bold belief: that children with Down syndrome deserve to be raised at home, surrounded by love—not in institutions. These pioneers challenged societal norms and created what would become the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles (DSALA).
From humble beginnings, DSALA quickly grew into a powerful force for change. What started as monthly gatherings of parents and professionals evolved into a registered nonprofit by 1976—and by 1990, seven regional sub-groups were serving families across Los Angeles County.
Today, DSALA supports over 4,000 families, offering programs and resources that empower individuals with Down syndrome at every stage of life.
Our Impact—Then and Now
For 50 years, DSALA has been a trusted partner for families, educators, service providers, and advocates. We’re proud to have:
- Welcomed and supported thousands of families on their unique journeys
- Connected families to each other and vital resources
- Guided parents through complex support systems
- Provided comfort and clarity during life’s most challenging moments
- Helped launch organizations to expand access to services
- Developed tailored programs to meet evolving community needs
- Trained hundreds of peer mentors as advocates and role models
- Educated medical professionals, educators, and service providers
- Amplified voices within the Down syndrome community
- Raised public awareness and promoted inclusion and acceptance
- Organized transformative events like The Six Stages of Down Syndrome and The Age of Change
- Distributed thousands of new parent and medical resource packets
- Advocated for rights, dignity, and representation
- Supported the formation of new Down syndrome associations across Southern California
Our Vision Forward
As we celebrate five decades of advocacy and progress, we’re also preparing for the future. DSALA is committed to:
- Expanding outreach to underserved communities
- Growing programs that promote independence and opportunity
- Sustaining low- and no-cost services for families in need
- Building inclusive communities that recognize every individual's value
But we can’t do it without you.
Make an Impact. Empower the Future.
For 50 years, DSALA has delivered services with compassion, determination, and heart. Your support ensures we can continue doing so—for the next generation and beyond.
Donate Today. Empower Tomorrow.
Your gift directly supports programs, advocacy, and family resources that change lives.
Join Us in Writing DSALA’s Next Chapter
Together, we can build a more inclusive, supportive world—where every individual with Down syndrome has the opportunity to thrive.
