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Building Dreams, changing lives and Providing Opportunity for all

History and Overview

The Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN) is recognized as the leading expert and voice in Nevada for all people affected by Down syndrome. There are thousands of people living with this disability in our community, and thousands more of their extended family members who look to the DSOSN for support and advice.

The DSOSN offers support, direction, services and resources to hundreds of Clark County families affected by this occurrence. Early intervention and support play a direct role in the successful integration of these valuable citizens into the family and the community. Economic impact studies show that a new family who has the early support of DSOSN will care for their child through their lifetime, and will save taxpayers an astounding $1 million dollars per family by learning how to provide the special attention this child will need. Young adults with Down syndrome can become active, participating members of the community, and can enjoy an active and fulfilling life with the assistance of the DSOSN.

The Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (FD TAX ID # 94-3040560) comprised of families with a child who has Down syndrome, and others who are interested in the effects of Down syndrome on those families. We are affiliated with the National Down Syndrome Congress, The National Down Syndrome Society and the National Association for Down Syndrome. We are accredited by the Combined Federal Campaign and are members of the Las Vegas and Henderson Chambers of Commerce.

Since becoming incorporated in 1987, the mission of the DSOSN has been to enlighten the public by promoting a positive understanding of Down syndrome in the community, and to be a source of support, information and education for families affected by Down syndrome. The DSOSN serves the families of people with Down syndrome in the greater Las Vegas, Nevada area, including the cities of Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, and other areas of Clark County as well as Pahrump.

The programs and services offered through DOSN include speech, physical, dance, music, yoga and Spirit horse therapies, medical and educational programs as well as support groups, life skill seminars, our leading resource library, member socials and the teen & young adult club..

The DSOSN is funded primarily through the generosity of our supporters, which include members of the medical community, the business community, individual supporters, and the families of the special, vulnerable people we love so much. We do not receive any state or federal funding.

The DSOSN employs a Director of Fund Development and a Director o of Programs. The organization is governed by an eleven person board of directors. We publish a quarterly newsletter that deals with many of the issues surrounding Down syndrome, and features news and announcements about events in Southern Nevada that impact the lives of individuals and families in Southern Nevada affected by Down syndrome.

The DSOSN also strives to raise funds for programs and therapies through grants and our signature fundraising events. These events include the Dimes for Downs School Campaign, the annual Golf Tournament, the Buddy Walk, the Circle of Friends Annual Giving Campaign and the Festival of Trees & Lights. We also have a Legacy Circle Planned Giving Program for those who wish leave a lasting legacy to DSOSN while planning their estate wants, needs and wishes. We are constantly seeking new means of support to help us serve those affected by Down syndrome throughout Southern Nevada. With increased support, we can make a real difference in the quality of life of these innocent, vulnerable people and their families.