The Auckland Down Syndrome Association Inc (ADSA) is a family/whanāu support organisation.
We provide information and support for people with Down syndrome and their families. Established by parents in 1981, the ADSA is still run by parents, grandparents and siblings.
Four office staff work part-time for the association. Our Community Liaison Officer (CLO) assists and advises members. Supporting our CLO is a network of people who can visit families with a diagnosis of Down syndrome – at home or in the hospital, pre or post-birth. We also rely on the support of volunteers and we gratefully welcome any time you can give.
MEMBERSHIP – join the ADSA for free»
ADSA’s vision
We believe all people are valued and contributing members of the community. ADSA works to support and promote the inclusion of people with Down syndrome in the community by providing information to people with Down syndrome, their families and carers. We also working on promoting:
- the rights and interests of people with Down syndrome, their families and carers, and
- a positive public awareness and attitude of Down syndrome in the community.
How do we support families who have a member with Down syndrome?
We seek to achieve our vision by providing support for in a number of different ways.
The ADSA provides information packs:
- about Down syndrome for new families.
- for families whose children with Down syndrome are transitioning to school.
- on services available in Auckland for people with Down syndrome and their families.
Local support groups
We provide access to a number of local support groups for mums and dads with young babies and children with Down syndrome. This also includes social clubs for people with Down syndrome aged 13 to 17 and 18 and over. We provide ongoing links to other members by creating opportunities for people with Down syndrome and their families to meet regularly through social events such as the annual Buddy Walk.
Access to resources and education
Our members are kept informed of news and events via a regular electronic newsletter. Additionally, four to six times per year, we supply a printed or digital copy of our ‘Outlook’ newsletter.
We offer a lending library with educational and information resources. Additionally, we provide training for parents, carers, teachers, and teacher aides through the “Success in Schools” courses.
Further support
If required we will assist members with any advocacy-related concerns and we provide access to other disability agencies such as the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association, Parent to Parent, and Disability Connect.
The ADSA actively raises funds and seeks contributions from funding agencies so we can provide these activities. We sincerely thank our supporters who help us to achieve our aims or objectives.
Funding and support
Governance
The Auckland Down Syndrome Association is a registered incorporated society. ADSA is a registered charity. Its registered charity number is CC33441.