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We would like to better understand the experiences and needs of individuals with Down syndrome with regard to healthcare, clinical research, and care supports. If you are a caregiver who is involved in making decisions for an adult with Down syndrome who is at least 20 years of age, please take our survey by November 25.

We have partnered with a professional research company to ensure that all answers will be anonymous and remain strictly confidential. The survey is expected to take approximately 12-15 minutes to complete.

Complete the survey here!

NDSS is teaming up with the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress to host Brighter Futures: A National Conference on Adults with Down Syndrome and Aging at the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts! Join us on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, 2026 for this national conference geared toward caregivers, with a focus on adults with Down syndrome and aging.

Register Here!

At the York Area Down Syndrome Association (YADSA), we believe that every person deserves to be celebrated for exactly who they are. Down Syndrome is not something to “fix” or “overcome” — it’s a part of a person’s unique story, bringing with it gifts of joy, determination, and connection that enrich our entire community.

Down Syndrome occurs when a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. This tiny bit of genetic difference often leads to differences in learning, physical growth, and health — but it also brings countless strengths. Individuals with Down Syndrome are breaking barriers every day, excelling in school, thriving in the workplace, performing on stage, competing in sports, and inspiring others simply by being themselves.

At YADSA, our mission is to support individuals with Down Syndrome and their families through every stage of life. From early childhood programs to adult social opportunities, we create spaces for learning, friendship, advocacy, and inclusion. We believe in focusing on abilities, not limitations — and in empowering each person to reach their full potential.

We also know that awareness starts with understanding. When we take time to learn, to ask questions, and to see beyond stereotypes, we help build a more inclusive world for everyone. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, neighbor, or friend — your kindness and inclusion make a difference.

Together, we can make York a community where every individual with Down Syndrome is valued, supported, and celebrated.

If you’d like to learn more, get involved, or support our mission, visit our [Contact Us] page or connect with us on Facebook at York Area Down Syndrome Association.

At the York Area Down Syndrome Association (YADSA), we love highlighting organizations that share our mission of celebrating individuals with Down syndrome and supporting families from the very beginning. One such organization is Jack’s Basket — a nonprofit that’s making a beautiful impact across the country.

Jack’s Basket was founded in 2014 by Carissa Carroll, a mom who wanted to change how families are congratulated and supported when their baby is born with Down syndrome. After her son Jack’s birth, Carissa saw firsthand how many new parents didn’t receive the joyful congratulations every family deserves. From that experience, Jack’s Basket was born — with a mission to ensure every baby with Down syndrome is welcomed with love and celebration.

Each Jack’s Basket is filled with baby items, books, and resources for families, but perhaps most importantly, it comes with a connection — another parent who has walked the same journey and can offer encouragement, hope, and community.

Since its founding, over 10,000 baskets have been delivered across all 50 states and in several countries worldwide. Each basket serves as a reminder that every child’s life is worth celebrating and that no family should walk this path alone.

YADSA is proud to share in this same spirit of inclusion and celebration. Together, organizations like Jack’s Basket and YADSA help families feel supported, connected, and valued — from those very first moments and throughout every stage of life.

To learn more, request a basket, or support their mission, visit www.jacksbasket.org.

Registration is now open for the 2026 NDSS Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference! Join us on Capitol Hill for this transformative three-day experience that brings our community together to advocate for legislative priorities that impact the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Join us on May 11-13, 2026 in Washington, D.C. Early Bird Special and group pricing now available! Save now—pricing increases on February 17th!

What to expect:
– Pre-conference advocacy bootcamp
– Policy & advocacy training sessions
– Champions of Change luncheon
– Meeting with your representatives on Capitol Hill
Congressional reception

This is your opportunity to make your voice heard and create lasting change for the disability community.

Apply Today!

Join NDSS for our FREE, month-long webinar series designed to support caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome. We’ll cover critical topics from Alzheimer’s disease to financial planning and mental health.

Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or professional caregiver, these webinars will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions for your loved one. Sign up for any or all of the webinars!

Register for FREE!

On September 6, families from across the country—and as far as Australia, Dubai, and Great Britain—joined NDSS in NYC to raise awareness and celebrate the Down syndrome community.

The Times Square Video Presentation kicked off the NYC Buddy Walk, shining a spotlight on more than 500 individuals with Down syndrome as their photos lit up the iconic screens of Times Square.

Watch the Times Square Video Presentation.

On July 25th, the Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act was introduced in the United States Congress by Senators Van Hollen (D-MD) and Daines (R-MT) and Representatives Scott (D-VA) and Sessions (R-TX). If passed, the bill would phase out the use of 14(c) certificates that allow employers to pay people with disabilities less than the minimum wage. While several states have already taken action to phase out the use of 14(c) certificates, federal action would mean that every person with a disability in the U.S. would have the opportunity for competitive integrated employment.

More information – https://ndss.quorum.us/campaign/135153/?vcrmeid=uSzXUotXEeJQGKFaZOlpA&vcrmiid=EiWuJT5tcECGs-BvXSLV5g

Join us for the NYC Buddy Walk® on Saturday, September 6, 2025, for a day full of celebration, inclusion, and community! Enjoy live entertainment featuring talented individuals with Down syndrome and stop by Scholastic’s Clifford’s Corner to enjoy live readings from authors who have written inspiring books about Down syndrome.

More information _ https://give.ndss.org/event/2025-new-york-city-buddy-walk-r/e647131

The Dan Piper Award is given by NDSS to an adult with Down syndrome who brings about greater public awareness and understanding of individuals with Down syndrome through everyday activities.  Does that sound like someone you know? Nominate them by July 21st at ndss.org/dan-piper-award!