Where to Start-Florida

DOWN SYNDROME FOUNDATION OF FLORIDA

They envision a day where people with Down syndrome are fully included in their communities: working, playing, studying and living together with their peers.

It is their hope that individuals with Down syndrome will be seen as ''More Alike Than Different' and strive to instill this belief in our local communities through our outreach and programs. This goal is to benefit the community as a whole, not just the individual. 

http://www.dsfflorida.org/

The Masgutova Organization

is dedicated to developing and refining non-invasive techniques
that improve, restore or optimize function, despite the challenges
that may be present. We offer a wide range of educational programs
designed to bring the Masgutova Method within reach of health and
wellness professionals, parents, and caregivers alike.

Mailing Address for questions or concerns:
SMEI LLC
P.O. Box 1651
Melrose, FL 32666

Mailing Address for receipts and other financial needs:
SMEI LLC
P.O. Box 7738
Jupiter, FL 33468-7738

http://masgutovamethod.com/



ABM Practioner

 

The Anat Baniel Method℠ is a cutting-edge, science-based NeuroMovement® approach that transforms the lives of children and adults, helping them move beyond pain and limitation. By accessing the amazing powers of the brain to change itself the method helps people discover how to improve the mind and body dramatically enhancing physical, cognitive, emotional, and creative performance. This unique method evolved from Anat’s background, the work of Dr. Feldenkrais, and the thousands of people Anat has helped.

Through innovative movement exercises and the Nine Essentials, create new neural patterns that increase strength, flexibility, and vitality. Whether you are in good health or have a limiting diagnosis, the method gives you tools to make the impossible possible and to live life more fully, with greater joy and success.

Mary Brosch in Miami FL 850-291-0857 marybrosch@gmail.com

Josie Davenport Fl School of Massage 6421 SW 13th St Gainesville FL 352-376-9485 / 352-514-5076 josiedav@mac.com www.presencemoves.com

Bonnie Kissam at 5317 Fruitville Rd. Sarasota FL 941-360-2248 / 941-587-4535 bk@bonniekissam.com  www.bonniekissam.com

Dianne Fecteau in Palm Harbor FL 727-366-1392 dianne@feldyusa.com   www.feldyusa.com

 

FLORIDA EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM

Early intervention programs provide an array of therapeutic and social services to families of young children with developmental concerns. These programs are based on the assumption that therapies and enriching experiences provided at an early age can help lessen the impact of developmental problems. According to a recent report by the FSU Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy, children not involved in an early educational program were more likely to be placed in special education, drop out of high school, participate in welfare programs, and have a greater number of incarcerations.

http://www.dcmsonline.org/jax-medicine/2000journals/march2000/eip.htm

Pensacola Early Intervention Contact Info

Sacred Heart Hospital / Early Step

5150 Bayou Blvd., Suite 1-N
Pensacola, FL 32503
(850) 416-7656
Fax: (850) 416-7348

Counties: Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton

Panama City Early Intervention Contact Info

Children's Home Society

Big Bend Early Steps

914 Harrison Avenue
Panama City, FL 32401
(850) 747-5411
Fax: (850) 747-5583

Counties: Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Washington, Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla

Tallahassee Regional Offices

Children's Home Society / Big Bend Early Steps

1801 Miccosukee Commons Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308
(850) 921-0330
Fax: (850) 921-0283

Counties: Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Washington, Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, & Wakulla

Gainesville Regional Offices

Department of Pediatrics

1329 Southwest 16th St, Rm 4160
Po Box 100296
Gainesville, FL 32610-0296
(800) 334-1447
Fax: (352) 279-8588
Counties: Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnum, Suwannee, Union

Jacksonville Regional Offices

University of Florida / Northeastern Early Steps

910 North Jefferson Street
Jacksonville, FL 32209
(904) 360-7022
Fax: (904) 798-4545 or 4544
Counties: Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Nassau, St. Johns

Daytona Beach Regional Offices

The Children's Advocacy Center

421 South Keech Street
Daytona Beach, FL 32114-4623
(386) 258-7434
Fax: (386) 258-2283
Counties: Flagler, Lake, Volusia

Ocala Regional Offices

CMS - Ocala 3200 E.Silver Springs Blvd
Suite 201
Ocala, FL 34470
(352) 369-2100
(888) 326-7485
Counties: Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion, Sumter

Orlando Regional Offices

Central Florida Early Steps
601 West Michigan St.
Orlando, FL 32805
(407) 317-7430 Ext. 2121
Fax: (407) 648-4150
Counties: Orange, Osceola, Seminole

Melbourne Regional Offices

Catch of Brevard, Inc.

2565 Judge Fran Jamieson Way
Viera, FL 32940
(321) 634-3688
Fax: (321) 504-0955
Counties: Brevard

Tampa Regional Offices

All Children's Hospital
Center for Child Development

500 7th Ave South, Dept 7470
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 767-4403
1-800-374-4334
Fax: (727) 727-6727 or 4715

University of South Florida

13101 North Bruce B. Downs Blvd
Tampa, FL 33612
(813) 974-0601
Fax: (813) 558-1343

Infants & Young Children West Central Florida, Inc.

P.O. BOX 82485
3825 W. Henderson Blvd., Suite 504
Tampa, FL 33629
(813) 356-1632 ext 26
Fax: (813) 356-1636

Lakeland Early Steps

4718 Old Highway 37, Suite 1002
Lakeland, FL 33813
(863) 701-1240
Counties: Hillsborough, Polk

Ft. Pierce Regional Offices

Treasure Coast Campus

10570 S Federal Highway, Suite 200
Port St Lucie, FL 34952
(772) 380-9601
Fax: (772) 380-9976
Counties: Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, St. Lucie

Sarasota Regional Offices

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System

1700 South Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34239-3555
941-487-5403
(866) 510-5594
Fax: 941-487-5430
Counties: Charlotte, Desoto, Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, Sarasota

Ft. Myers Regional Offices

Health Planning Council

8961 Daniels Center Drive, Suite 401
Ft. Myers, FL 33912
(239) 433-6700
Fax: (239) 433-6706
Counties: Collier, Lee, Hendry, Glades

Ft. Lauderdale Regional Offices

Children's Diagnostic & Treatment Center

1401 South Federal Highway
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 728-1083 or (954) 728-1090
Fax: (954)779-2316

Treasure Coast Early Steps

5325 Greenwood Avenue, Suite 201
West palm Beach, FL 33407
(561) 881-2822
Fax: (561) 881-0972
Counties: Palm Beach

Miami Regional Offices

Mailman Center for Child Development

1120 NW 14th Street, Rm 1216
Miami, FL 33136
(305) 243-5808
Fax: (305) 243-3501

Miami Children's Hospital

17615 S.W. 97th Ave.
Palmetto Bay, FL 33157
(786) 268-2611
Fax: (786) 268-1748
Counties: South Dade, Monroe

Miami Local Early Steps

1120 NW 14th Street, Rm 1216
Miami, FL 33136
(305) 243-5808
Fax: (305) 243-3501
Counties: Broward

 EASTER SEALS:

Easter Seals provides exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.

407-629-7881(voice)
407-629-7881(tty)
407-629-4754 (fax)  

2010 Mizell Avenue
Winter Park, Florida 32792

http://fl.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=FLDR_homepage

MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAM:

Agency for Persons with Disabilities Programs

The Agency for Persons with Disabilities administers programs for children and adults with developmental disabilities. There are three basic programs:

• The INTERMEDIATE CARE FACILITIES FOR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES or children and adults with the greatest needs that cannot be met in the person's home. There is no dollar cap, and the needs of the children and adults are met in a community setting with 3 to 24 people per home.
• The BIG WAIVER is the Developmental Disabilities Waiver. This waiver doesn't limit how much can be spent per year, and offers all the services. The eligible person however must be planning to move into a group home or supported living environment within 6 months. There are some caps in the frequency of services and most services have specific guidelines that must be met in order to be able to receive them.
• The LITTLE WAIVER is the Family and Supportive Living Waiver. There is a limit to the number and types of services as well as a limit of $14,282 that you can spend each year. This waiver is for people who live in their own home, family home or a supported living situation and there are 11 services available.

http://www.teachmorelovemore.com/SpecialNeedsDetails.asp?id=30

http://apd.myflorida.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_Medicaid_waiver

TEFRA: (Tax, Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982)

Under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (TEFRA), states may provide Medicaid coverage to children with severe disabilities, disregarding their family income, if these children require care at an institutional (hospital, nursing home or intermediate care facility) level.

When a child receives extended care in an institutional setting, family income is disregarded as a qualification for Medicaid. The TEFRA State Plan Option makes it possible to do the same for a family whose child requires care at the level provided in an institution, but who choose to care for their child at home. Currently, 18 states and the District of Columbia have chosen to implement the TEFRA State Plan Option. Because states vary widely in the availability of institutional care for children and the clinical criteria for admitting children to these institutions, the numbers of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) who receive Medicaid benefits under this option also varies widely from state to state.

Please check with your state office to see if TEFRA is offered in your state.

HOPE HAVEN CHILDREN'S CLINIC AND FAMILIY CENTER

Down Syndrome Center
Hope Haven Clinic
4600 Beach Boulevard
Jacksonville , FL 32207
904-346-5100
www.hope-haven.org

FLORIDA GENETICS CLINIC (ORLANDO):

Mail: 1717 South Orange Avenue Orlando FL 32806

Phone:  (407)650-7245

Doctors:  Wheeler, Patricia G. MD

The Nemours Children’s Clinic, Orlando, provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for children with genetic disorders.

Learn more about Nemours Children's Clinic, Orlando.

DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida is a not-for-profit association, founded in 1991, by parents of children with Down syndrome. It has grown from a few families to over 9,000 individuals, families and supporters. We are governed by a volunteer board of directors (more than 50% have a family member with Down syndrome.) We serve more than 850 families in the 7-county area in and around Orlando.

DSACF is the leading voice for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. We offer hope, encouragement and acceptance through advocacy, education and awareness so that each may realize their potential as members of our community.

Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida
204 N. Wymore Rd.
Winter Park, FL 32789
407-478-5621
407-478-5698 (FAX)
DADS Voicemail: 407-504-1747

http://www.dsacf.org/

DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF JACKSONVILLE

The Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville (DSAJ) is a non-profit organization committed to helping people with Down syndrome achieve their full potential and to helping create a community that is educated, supportive, and inclusive of individuals with Down syndrome.

1050 North Davis Street
Jacksonville, Fl. 32209

904-353-6300

DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF MIAMI

In 2001, two parents of children with Down syndrome, Frances Capo and Lilianne Rossel, met through their genetic specialist with the idea of starting an organization for other parents to meet, share experiences, and get information about Down syndrome in Miami-Dade County. They both shared the mindset that individuals with Down syndrome are just that—individuals—people with personalities, ideas, and tremendous spirit.Their idea began with small fundraisers and their first event, a family picnic at a local park now hosted annually. That original idea, with the help of other like-minded parents, became what is known today as the Down Syndrome Association of Miami (DSAOM), incorporated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in September 2005.

(305) 218-8233

PO Box 43-0895

South Miami, FL 33243

http://www.dsaom.org/

DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF TALLAHASSEE

The mission of DSAT is to provide education, support, and resources to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, professionals, and the community while building public awareness and acceptance of the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome.

2910 Kerry Forest Parkway D4-212
Tallahassee, FL 32309

Amy Toman, President:

Cell: (850) 385-4722
E-mail: President@dsatallahassee.org

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Ryan Tyson, Vice President:

Cell: (850) 443-0222
Email: VP@dsatallahassee.org

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GOLD COAST DOWN SYNDROME ORGANIZATION

Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization, a 501(c)(3) non-profit family support and resource organization serving 350 families and dedicated to making the future brighter for individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities in Palm Beach County, Florida.

561-912-1231

DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

momssunshine03@bellsouth.net

Bagdad FL

850-501-8366

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. SUPPORT

FRIENDS is a Down syndrome family support group serving the Tampa/Brandon area. FRIENDS was formed out of a need for families to connect and lend support while networking and educating each other about Down syndrome.  They are a non-profit organization that relies on donations and fundraisers to continue our work in the community.
Their goals are:

1) Provide support and information from the best resource; other parents. Families who have children with Down syndrome will help others look beyond their child’s diagnosis and delight in the joys of parenthood.
2) Help families understand the new terminology, services, and supports that will help their child develop successfully.
3) Provide free information on all aspects of Down syndrome in person, by phone, by internet, and by referencing nationally recognized resources.

Brandon FL
813-654-6693

http://www.friendssupport.org/

FUN COAST DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION

The Fun Coast Down Syndrome Association was started in October of 2002 by Paula Wilburn in an effort to provide services and support to families in Flagler and Volusia counties. Most of us are parents, but we are also grandparents, friends, and professionals. We encourage and support families by offering services and advocating for people with Down syndrome.

The mission of this organization shall be to provide support, education and resources to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and community, in order to foster an environment in which individuals with Down syndrome are included and valued as contributing members of our society.

(386) 447-8034
(386) 283-2787
3601 E Moody Blvd
Bunnell, FL 32110
http://www.funcoastdownsyndrome.com


SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PODS ANGELS FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

PODS Angels is a non-profit support group organization for parents of Down syndrome. PODS Angels began in 1998 almost 10 years ago after the birth of their beautiful daughter Mariah, she has Down syndrome. PODS Angels Support has been helping families get connected to one other for friendships, support and encouragement. Helping families go thru the maze of Early Intervention services and therapies that are available today has been rewarding and motivating. They continue reaching out on the internet and to the local hospitals and other resources that will continue to keep us connected to the newest parents that need that positive support at the very beginning of their journey to Holland, (a poem) what is often times an uncertain time, especially in the early days. Being a positive support person to families is what drives us! Advocacy skills are something that we as a support group empower parents with. Helping parents learn how to be the BEST Advocates they can be for their child especially during the school IEP meetings! Bringing back old fashioned ‘Tea Parties’ by hosting ‘Advocacy Tea Parties’, parents meeting and learning with other parents. Need help or advice...email us, hopefully they can point you in the right direction for where you are presently.

Nancy Harris-Executive Director
1270 SW 28^th Terr.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

podsangels@bellsouth.net

Office ~ (954) 581-4165
Mary Pringle - President
pringleclan@msn.com
(239) 872-4778 cell
www.podsangels.org


NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA PLAYGROUP

North Central Florida Playgroup is a local support group for families with a child with Down syndrome. Families with children with other developmental delays are also welcome.

Gainesville FL
386-462-4988
352-373-4668

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NCFL_Playgroup/


TREASURE COAST DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS GROUP

The Treasure Coast Down Syndrome Awareness Group is here to support families, promote public awareness, network with other organizations and individuals and lobby for appropriate educational, vocational and social opportunities.

P.O. Box 326
Hobe Sound, Fl 33475

Contact List

Lisa Ewell – Babies and Toddlers
772-260-9893
treasuredangels@bellsouth.net
Randi Greenberg – Babies and Toddlers
407-497-0264
randig489@netzero.net
Paulette Barrier - Elementary School age
772-287-1418
pbeurrier@att.net
Laurie Frost – Elementary School age
772-341-3063
glfrostfour@yahoo.com
Marie Muniz – Middle and High School
772-221-3287(Home)
772-380-3145(Cell)
marieelenafla@aol.com
Sandy Coleman – Adults
772-546-7057 (Home)
918-520-0354 (Cell)
Sacs01@bellsouth.net
Mike Bouse
772-521-3468
michaelbouse@gmail.com

http://www.tcdownsyndromeag.org/

FLORIDA KEYS DOWN SYNDROME EDUCATIONAL TRUST

Key Largo GL

305-942-3967

contactus@fkdset.org

http://www.fkdset.org/default.html

MANASOTA BUDS (BRINGING UP DOWN SYNDROME)

Mission is to provide families with
a neutral and supportive forum for sharing and networking,
and to promote understanding and acceptance of Down syndrome.

8374 Market Street Box 113

Lakewood Ranch FL 34202

info@manasotabuds.org 941-907-0499 www.manasotabuds.org

	This e-mail address is being protected from spambots.

DOWN SYNDROME NETWORK OF PINELLAS

Mission:  To be a proactive, dynamic support group to all people who have
Down syndrome and their families.

Purpose is to:

• Empower parents of children with Down syndrome, young and old, by providing up-to-date
information and resources.

• Pursue inclusion of individuals who have Down syndrome in all areas of life so they embrace
opportunities to contribute and be valued members of society.

• Dispel myths, promote positive awareness, and emphasize abilities of people with Down syndrome to parents, educators, physicians, therapists, and the general public.

PO Box 523
Largo, FL 33779

http://www.downsyndromenetworkofpinellas.com/

BUDDY CRUISE, INC.

Buddy Cruise provides educational opportunities and resources for families, while promoting awareness, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome through unique venues.               

PO Box 162
Lithia, FL 33547                                   

http://buddycruise.org/home.aspx

REACHING DOWN'S OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

Milton FL

850-390-5786

reachingdowns@yahoo.com

ACTION UP WITH DOWNS

Acton Up With Downs, Inc (AUWDI) is Bay County’s Down syndrome support group. AUWDI is committed to supporting and enhancing the quality of life, and realizing the potential of all people with Down syndrome. We promote awareness, acceptance and inclusion in our community through a variety of services.

Phone: 850-249-9988

www.actonupwithdowns.com
actonupwithdowns@gmail.com

Acton Up With Downs, Inc
P.O. Box 9326
Panama City Beach, FL 32417

Member Contacts

Tammy Haight
tdhaight@bellsouth.netPresident

Rebecca Stanford
becbaby@gmail.comVice President

UPSIDE 2 DOWNS OF PENSACOLA

Upside 2 Downs of Pensacola is an organization that is going to aid and include those with Down Syndrome into society, and not as second class citizens.  They are equipping our families and community with this knowledge by offering workshops, monthly support group meetings, community events, TV commercials, and more.  When you involve the community and local agencies, they believe that acceptance and inclusion will blend into one. Believe me, there is an UPside to Down Syndrome.

UPside2Downs
P.O. Box 7546
Pensacola, Fl. 32534
http://www.upside2downs.org/

UP WITH DOWN OF HERNANDO COUNTY

Spring Hill FL
352-442-7117
upfordownshernando@live.com

BROWARD GOLD COAST DOWN SYNDROME ORGANIZATION

This organization is well aware of the special needs of your child and they are available to help you help your child. Their goal is simple, to enhance the lives of individuals with Down syndrome by helping them reach their full potential by providing family support, education and social activities.

10250 NW 53rd Street
Sunrise, FL 33351
954.577.4122
www.bgcdownsyndrome.org

THE ARC OF FLORIDA

“Working with local, state, and national partners, The Arc of Florida advocates for local chapters, public policies, and high quality supports for people with developmental and other disabilities to be fully included in all aspects of their community.”

2898 Mahan Drive Suite 1, Tallahassee, Florida 32308 - 850-921-0460 -

Toll Free: 1-800-226-1155

http://arcflorida.org/