The mission of our organization is to ensure all individuals with Down syndrome in the Northern Virginia area, and their families, receive the support necessary to participate in, contribute to and achieve fulfillment of life in their communities. DSANV: 

Helps families adjust to the diagnosis and/or birth of a child with Down syndrome;
Provides individuals with Down syndrome, and their families, with educational, social and recreational programs and community events that allow families to meet, interact and learn from each other;
Increases community awareness of the capabilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome; and
Supports local organizations that serve the Down syndrome community.

Each year, starting on Giving Tuesday, we kick-off our end of year campagin where we ask for support in helping to fund programs, events, and family support for the following year.  Giving Tuesday will kick off an event where we ask 100 friends to pledge just $10 to our campaign, within the first 24 hours.  From there, we hope to offer incentives, raffle items, and even possibly a silent auction to help us reach our goal.  We fell short of our Buddy Walk goal by $17,000 in October, so are hoping to make up the funds here.  Our Buddy Walk fundraiser, year end campaign, and our spring 5k account for over 75% of our yearly budget! Thank you for your consideration in helping us fund 2026!