DSACK Programs and Services

DSACK is a non-profit 501 c 3 volunteer organization comprised of  families and professionals who are interested in bettering the lives of people with Down syndrome, and helping them to realize their life aspirations. DSACK’s ultimate goal is to provide support, resources, and opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

DSACK exists to:
Celebrate our Down Syndrome Community, Support individuals and families in Central KY with Down syndrome and their families; Educate the Central KY community; and Assist in local and national research efforts.

DSACK seeks to provide the entire community with information and education to broaden  awareness and foster positive attitudes regarding people with Down syndrome.

DSACK provides programs and services to improve the quality of life for individuals with Down  syndrome and their families.  DSACK strives to provide current, accurate information regarding  best practices on supporting individuals with Down syndrome.

BE SURE TO CLICK ON EACH LINK BELOW TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH PROGRAM OR SERVICE!

Hospital/New Parents
Provides informational folders and books directly to new parents, the genetics departments and nurseries of local hospitals.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

2nd Saturday New Parent Group 0-5
Includes educational and inspirational speakers, parent roundtable discussions and a great place to socialize and make new friends.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Elementary Group

This group exists to join together families and elementary age children, both for support and fun!

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

A.I.M (Advocates in Motion) Teen and Young Adult Group
This group is structured to meet the needs of the families participating and includes social outings and service opportunities.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Sibling Group
This program joins siblings of children with Down Syndrome in social settings, workshops and discussion groups.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

4th Monday Mom’s Night Out
If you are a Mom of a child with Down syndrome ages 0-Adult, this is an evening out for you! Meet other Moms, make new friends, and share your story.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

DSACK Birthday Club
Everyone loves to be remembered on his/her special day!  DSACK sends out a Birthday card with pertinent information for our loved ones with Down syndrome who sign up for the Birthday Club.  These unique Birthday Cards were made possible through a gift from Central Baptist Hospital.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

DSACK Lending Library
Our library offers a variety of books and DVD’s that are available, at no charge, to help our families better understand, educate, and support our loved ones with Down Syndrome.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer your time to help DSACK provide the most for our loved ones!

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Scholarships, Camps,  Conferences and Funds
DSACK offers financial funding for individuals to attend camps, and conferences that will benefit our loved ones with Down syndrome, and their families.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Erica’s Fund
In Loving Memory of Erica Nichole Jent Herald
This already existing part of DSACK’s budget was renamed after the death of 8 month old Erica Nichole Jent Herald. Everyone who met Erica and her family was deeply touched and blessed, including many of us at DSACK.  This family is a true inspiration in many, many ways. By donating specifically to this fund, you will help us keep Erica’s memory alive AND assist other families who may have a hospitalized child, or be undergoing a different crisis.  Gifts made to this fund will assist DSACK families in crisis.  To make a contribution, please write “Erica’s Fund” in the memo section of your check and follow the instructions here.   You can read excerpts of tributes written by Erica’s family here.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Newsletter: “What’s Going Down with DSACK”
The DSACK newsletter reaches over 400 households and professionals. It is filled with information about local and national opportunities, inspirational stories, services, research, families, and more!

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Peer Presentations for classmates

Peer Presentation Training

………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Medical Presentation for Health Professionals
DSACK presents information about delivering a diagnosis of Down syndrome, providing accurate information to patients, and providing local and national resources.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Summer Math Club
Elementary age group gathers regularly to focus on retention and math skills such as counting money & telling time.  This group welcomes participants and volunteers!

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Annual Christmas Party
This family friendly event includes a meal, activities, a chance to socialize with other DSACK families, and even a special visit from a special guest!

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Annual Summer Picnic!
DSACK’s annual Summer Picnic in July takes place at local park with playground, organized games, potluck dishes and more.   It coincides with our annual Buddy Walk Kick-Off too.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Annual Buddy Walk!
DSACK will host our 7th annual Buddy Walk on Saturday, October 2, 2010. The walk, which highlights National Down Syndrome Awareness Month each October, promotes acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. The event also raises money to increase awareness and education for local families, caregivers, medical and educational professionals in the surrounding community. Funds are raised through corporation sponsorships, individual and team walkers, and through public or private donations.  To learn more click here.  To contact the Buddy Walk Chair, email buddywalk@dsack.org