About the Nonprofit
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The mission of the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is to enhance the lives of children and adults with Down syndrome through education, advocacy and family support.
Our Purpose is to:
Empower parents of children with Down syndrome, young and old, by providing up-to-date information and resources.
Pursue inclusion of individuals who have Down syndrome in all areas of life, so they embrace opportunities to contribute and be valued members of society.
Dispel myths, promote positive awareness, and emphasize abilities of people with Down syndrome to parents, educators, physicians, therapists, and the general public.
Advocate and defend the human and civil rights of persons with Down syndrome.
The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization EDUCATION PROGRAM helps children with Down syndrome from birth through high school to develop the skills to be included in the classroom and ultimately in all areas of life.
THE EDUCATION PROGRAM includes:
Best Start (newborns-kindergarten) Mommy & Me Therapeutic Program includes:
• Tunes for Tots Therapeutic Music & Play Therapy (birth through age 3) speech and gross motor skill development for preschool readiness led by licensed Music Therapist and Support Group Facilitator
• NEW! Mentor Moms early intervention program pairing a new mom with a trained mentor mom of an older child with Down syndrome to provide information, support, and insight into their child’s potential. Children benefit from parents learning how to interact with and support the development of their infant/toddler and how to meet the needs of a child with Down syndrome.
Exceptional Educators Teacher Training on how children with Down syndrome learn
Educational Advocacy Program (preschool through high school) Provides a Professional Advocate to support parents with the following:
• Least Restrictive Environment School Placement
• Proper IEP Development
• IEP Meeting guidance and attendance with Professional Advocate
•Transitional Advocacy for preschool, kindergarten, middle school and high school
Nine Annual Learning Workshops educate both children with Down syndrome and their parents and includes four segments:
• Reading and Behavior (pre-k through grade 5) focus on literacy and behaviors
• Building Independence (middle school)
• Preparing for After High School and Adulthood (high school through age 22)
• Spanish Speakers Education and Support Group (three through high school)
Adult Enrichment Classes in Art, Theater, Dance, Fitness, Cooking, and Book Club are available to adults 22 and older on an a la carte basis.