Down Syndrome Network Oregon
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Our Mission

Down Syndrome Network Oregon is a faith-based support group that provides comfort and acceptance for families, friends and individuals with Down syndrome. It is our goal to use community outreach events to create a vision of hope and awareness to demonstrate that every life brings value to the world.

What's New
Special Needs Cheerleading
May 16, 2008
This program is open to boys and girls age 6 and up through adults. The sessions are free and meet every Friday.
More Information
Transition to Kindergarten
May 20, 2008
6:30 to 8:30 pm
Our Lady of the Lake Church
Parish Office Building, 650 "A" Avenue, Lake Oswego, OR
Victoria Haight of Oregon PTI will share with us her presentation on "Transition to Kindergarten," and we will continue with parent lead discussion regarding the various ways our children receive their education. OrPTI is a wonderful resource for information and advocacy. Please come join us as we share our thoughts, hopes and desires for the best for our kids! Dinner will be served.
Please RSVP to renee@kerr.com or 503-522-6141
36th National Down Syndrome Congress Convention - Scholarships Available
July 11 - 13, 2008
The conference will be held in Boston, Massachusetts and is a great opportunity to learn more about Down syndrome.  DSNO has two scholarships available for this conference.
Applications must be submitted by May 15, 2008.
More Information
National Institute on Recreation Inclusion
September 4 - 7, 2008
The National Institute on Recreation Inclusion (NIRI) in Eugene, Oregon is a key event for those seeking knowledge about the inclusion process. The conference provides hands-on learning though workshops and training as well as a forum for discussion on inclusion issues, cutting-edge ideas and new learning opportunities. Attendees will learn valuable tools and techniques necessary to design, implement and evaluate recreation programs for customers with and without disabilities; explore new ways to enhance current programs; learn how to best utilize staff resources while building partnerships within the community for greater impact; and receive updates on the Americans with Disabilities Act - specifically issues dealing with playgrounds, facilities and recent court decisions. All NIRI 2008 program sessions are identified and divided into the following themes/levels of practice:
  • Access and Training: Knowledge about parks and facilities planning, accessibility standards and guidelines, training needs, tips and techniques.
  • Management and Supervision: Knowledge about managing and supervising the recreation inclusion process including but not limited to: assessment; funding; legal definitions; interpretations and ADA inclusion.
  • Philosophy and Policy: Basic knowledge about the nature of the recreation inclusion process, philosophy, policy and strategy development.
  • Programs and Services: In-depth knowledge about developing and implementing inclusive recreation programs and partnerships.
Contact:
 Bri Maier
The Karen Gaffney Foundation
PMB 199
25 NW 23rd PL, STE 6
Portland, OR 97210



“When Megan was born, I was unprepared and totally overwhelmed. The early months of her life were filled with many trips to the doctor, unanswered questions and feelings of isolation.

By meeting other parents of children with disabilities, I began to realize that Megan was my mission. Megan has brought laughter, joy and endless love to my husband, myself, her three older brothers and those around her. She is the sparkle in our lives.”

Paula Schiedler, Co-founder DSNO