MORE ALIKE THAN DIFFERENT!

WE CAN!

WELCOME TO THE DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS ORGANIZATION AND FAMILY!
DSAGNO is a 501c3 support, information and advocacy organization.  Through our membership, we provide support to new parents, self-advocates, family and friends of individuals with Down syndrome. Through our publications, web site, meetings and events, we provide the most current information to our membership and others interested in Down syndrome topics. Through our advocacy effort, DSAGNO members work to elevate the community's understanding of those issues so that our children, youth and adults have the opportunities necessary to reach their full potential in all aspects of life.

Who We Are:
We are a non-profit, 501c3 organization. Our members include individuals with Down syndrome, their families, friends, and the therapeutic, medical, and educational professionals who provide services throughout our community.

Who Can Become a Member:
All that are interested in the issues and challenges facing those with Down syndrome are welcome and encouraged to join. Family members, community leaders and professionals are particularly encouraged to join. DSAGNO welcomes all individuals who support and recognize the ability of all individuals with special needs!
MEMBERSHIP PAGE

Meetings:
DSAGNO meeting notices are posted here and on the DSAGNO Yahoo Group. The public is invited to the FREE meetings, which usually include a topical speaker, refreshments and a chance to socialize and discuss current issues with other DSAGNO family members and professionals.  Please call (504) 259-6201.

What is the DSAGNO Mission
Members of DSAGNO work with community leaders and government agencies to educate the community toward a greater understanding of the issues facing individuals with Down syndrome. DSAGNO does this by acting as a clearinghouse for current  information, advocating in our schools for inclusion programs, working with other agencies to develop programs that benefit individuals with Down syndrome and sponsoring events that will raise awareness about Down syndrome and the ability of individuals with Down syndrome.

Fundraising:
In October of 2002, DSAGNO initiated the area's first Buddy Walk to promote inclusion and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome and awareness of their abilities. The 2010 Buddy Walk will be held on October 30, 2010 from 1:00 – 5:00 PM with registration from11:00 AM – 12:30 PM.  The location will be the Zephyr’s Parking Lot at 6100 Airline Highway, Metairie, LA.  Registration for the Buddy Walk can be accessed through Firstgiving.com/dsagno. Register as a single, family or team!


FACTS AND INFORMATION ABOUT DOWN SYNDROME
The following information was derived from the
National Down Syndrome Society Web site and from the
Down Syndrome Association of Greater New Orleans
Down syndrome is usually caused by an error in cell division. All people with Down syndrome have an extra portion of the number 21 chromosome present in all, or some, of their cells. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with the syndrome.