A NDSS Affiliate is a parent support group comprised of two or more parents from different families and organized for the sole purpose of working on behalf of people with Down syndrome and their families. Affiliates hold regular meetings, share information, attend professional conferences, and network to further the mission and purpose of their groups.
Affiliates vary in size and scope.
While some affiliates are incorporated as nonprofit organizations, others are smaller and less formal working groups. The relationship between NDSS and its Affiliates is one of interdependence and collaboration. As a leader in the field of Down syndrome, NDSS is in a unique position to offer its affiliates a wealth of resources necessary to grow and sustain their organizations. Affiliates are also in a unique position to keep NDSS abreast of parenting needs, educational concerns, medical issues and grassroots developments in their communities. This information helps NDSS forge new ground for its education, research and advocacy efforts.