DSDN Rockin' Family Fund
Behind every child born with Down syndrome, there are parents – a rockin' mom™ and/or dad™ who experiences the unforgettable moment of hearing the diagnosis for the first time. The Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network exists to support these “Rockin’ Families” through that diagnosis experience and into early childhood. Our Rockin’ Family Fund makes that support possible.
Each year we welcome nearly 1500 new parents into our DSDN groups online. We are reaching over 20% of the families welcoming children with Down syndrome in the United States each year, and growing each year!
Your generous donation helps us welcome and care for expectant and new parents in bigger ways:
Scholarships
When a parent wants to learn or recharge: a scholarship to attend Ds-related educational and networking conferences, classes, or events. Winners must be a member of a DSDN online group with a rockin' child under 4 in the current calendar year to be eligible.
The application window for scholarships to the 2024 Rockin' Retreats is now closed. Join us live on the DSDN Facebook page on March 21 at 7pm Eastern to hear who won a scholarship and enter to win a FREE registration.
Welcome Gifts
When a new or expectant parent of a child with Ds joins our community: a warm welcome gift coupled with helpful information and resources—and a message of congratulations, possibility, and encouragement that’s so often otherwise missing from the experience.
Care Packages
When a child undergoes surgery or has an extended stay in the NICU: a card and care package to remind parents they’re not alone and promote community among all our member parents.
Memorials
When a child with Ds passes away: a special, personalized gift to commemorate and celebrate that child’s life, and remind parents that they are always a part of the Rockin’ Family.
Adoption Grants
When a parent joins our community through adoption, we are able to help offset some costs through a grant awarded annually. Applications for the 2023 adoption grants are now closed. Look for more information in summer 2024 about next year's grants.