Showing posts with label Florida. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Florida. Show all posts

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Doctors For "Our" Kiddos



One of the best things that you can do for your child is find someone that knows what you are dealing with.  Chances are that person is not at your local pediatricians office.  We have an amazing pediatrician and we are very blessed with her support, but even she admits that she is not a specialist on Down syndrome-and I do not expect her too be.  As my children's mother it is my job to be their expert.  When I need guidance I research what I can and present my findings to the professionals.

You will hear a lot of people say...."don't worry just treat them like the rest of your children".  This statement is partially true in my opinion.  We most certainly treat Emma like the rest of our kids. She enjoys all the same things our other kids do.  She plays dress up, she sings and dances, she climbs and slides, she has fits and gets in trouble like the rest of our kids do.  She goes to Mother's Day Out just like the other kids did, and she does all the other countless things our other kids do or did.  She also has 8 therapy sessions a week, hypothyroidism, cardiologist visits once a year, orthodontist appointments at the age of 2, labs drawn every 3 months, has a restricted diet and is on a  neurodevelopmental program unlike the rest of our kids. With that said...Emma's life will always be a little different than theirs.  Because of the 21st chromosome it is very important that Emma gets bio medical support.  We believe that we have to have someone that understands exactly what Down syndrome is and how we can help Emma's body function at it best.

There are not a lot of physicians that truly understand this about our kids, so I have decided to compile a list of ones that I feel are good choices.  Because we use Erica Peirson I will start with her.  Our appointments with Dr. Peirson are done via Skype.


Erica Peirson, ND
2161 NE Broadway St.
Portland, OR 97232
drpeirson@gmail.com
www.downsyndrometreatment.net



Norm Schwartz, MD
Ph: 414 351 5772
Fax: 414 351 5760
4200 W. Good Hope Road
Milwaukee, WI 53209 USA
info@inwellnesstoday.com
www.inwellnesstoday.com



David Berger, MD, FAAP
3405 W. Fletcher Ave
Tampa, FL 33618
(813) 960-3415
http://www.wholisticfamilycare.com/



The Franz Center
3160 Southgate Commerce Bld. #64
Orlando FL 32806
Answers@DrCorneliaFranz.com
Phone 407-857-8860
Fax 407-857-7099
http://drcorneliafranz.com/joomla/



(for thyroid)
Raphel Kellman, MD
150 East 55th Street, 6th floor
New York, NY 10022

(212) 717-1118
http://raphaelkellmanmd.com/





Recognize the value of biomedical treatment of children and adults with Down syndrome Please sign.
https://www.change.org/petitions/down-syndrome-specialty-clinics-recognize-the-value-of-biomedical-treatment-of-children-and-adults-with-down-syndrome







Saturday, February 22, 2014

Give Kids The World



The story of Give Kids The World begins with a little girl with a wish and the desire of one man to make that wish come true.

The little girl's name was Amy. Amy had leukemia and one wish - to visit the theme parks in Orlando. To facilitate Amy's wish, the request of a complimentary stay was made to a respected hotelier. As he had done many times before, the hotelier gladly obliged and Amy's wish was that much closer to being realized. Sadly, the remainder of Amy's travel plans took too long to arrange and her wish was never granted; Amy had passed away. Time simply ran out.


 
 
This unfulfilled wish inspired a man, the hotelier, to make a vow that no child in need would ever be failed again. That man was Henri Landwirth and his desire to ensure that Amy's story would never repeat itself is where the story of Give Kids The World begins.


 
 


 

Give Kids The World is a non-profit organization that exists only to fulfill the wishes of all children with life-threatening illnesses and their families from around the world to experience a memorable, joyful, cost-free visit to the Central Florida attractions, and to enjoy the magic of Give Kids The World Village for as long as there is a need.
         


 

          
Landwirth enlisted the support of colleagues in the hospitality industry, including our world-famous theme parks, to assist him in bringing these special families to Central Florida within 24 hours if need be. He called the project “Give Kids The World,” because that is just what he intended to do - provide memorable, magical, cost-free experiences to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.



As the program expanded and the number of families continued to grow, it was apparent that Give Kids The World would need to create a place that could better serve the special needs of our families. The gates of Give Kids The World Village opened in 1989.




Today the Village is a 70-acre resort complete with over 146 Villa accommodations, entertainment attractions, whimsical venues, and fun specifically designed for children with special needs.
With the help of many generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 127,000 families from all 50 states and over 74 countries.



No child in need has ever been turned away – and no child ever will. Give Kids The World is a place where families find joy, laughter, serenity, and a lifetime of memories. Through the tireless support of volunteers, employees and generous partners, Give Kids The World dedicates each and every day to these special families.




Give Kids The World Website

 
Give Kids The World Blog

Saturday, February 15, 2014

Medicaid Waiver



Forty-four (44) states and the District of Columbia have received waivers to provide home- and community-based services to people with developmental disabilities (DD). Depending on each state's DD definition, these waivers may cover services to people with autism.

Colorado, Indiana, Maryland, and Wisconsin have waivers specifically addressing autism. They all limit waiver services to children. The first three states' waivers are only for children with autism. Wisconsin provides intensive in-home autism treatment under two broader waivers, one for children with DD and the other for children with social and emotional disorders. In Indiana and Wisconsin, children eligible for autism-specific services are also eligible for services under other Medicaid waivers.

All 50 States where interviewed about their programs for persons with developmental disabilities and asked the same 10 questions:                             
  1. What Programs Are Available To Assist People With Disabilities in your state?
  2. What number do you call to start getting services?
  3. Who Qualifies For Assistance? (disability, age, and financial requirements)
  4. How many people are currently waiting for services, and how many years should they expect to wait?
  5. How many people are currently receiving services?
  6. What assistance is available while you wait?
  7. Does the state offer group homes and supported living?
  8. Are there still state owned institutions? How many people are living in institutions
  9. Do you have choice in providers?
  10. What is the process to become a provider?

You can see the answers to these questions by clicking on the state you have questions about.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Bible Study for Moms of Children with Special Needs

 
 
 
 
In Memory of Dylan Charles
 
Dylan's story is one of love. He was brain injured at birth but his mother, Clarice, never let that hold him back! She filled his 9 years with adventures, true joy and LOVE! Clarice was absolutely devoted to Dylan and inspires anyone who knows her to be not just a better parent but a better person!
 
 
A Bible Study For Mothers with Special Needs Children in Jacksonville, FL. Next meeting is Sat, Dec 1, 6pm at Old Plank Rd Baptist Church 8964 Old Plank Rd, Jax, 32220.
 
This Bible study was created in October of 2010. It is a Christian based Bible Study. It is an ongoing Bible Study because our challenges are daily and support and encouragement is a constant need. It was created by a couple of moms that have children with special needs. We feel that parents that have children with special needs face certain hardships and need good support. Our goal is to meet togther monthly and get into the Word of God in order to stay encouraged by Gods promises we find in scripture. We support one another by listening to each other, praying for one another, and being there when one of us faces difficult challenges. We are a family:) If you are a visitor to this page please feel free to join our Bible Study when we meet monthly. If you are a therapist or work in the medical field, please feel free to direct special mommies to this page that you feel would enjoy the support. The Lord has a purpose for everyone. He has a purpose for children with special needs and He has a specific purpose for their parents. Im looking forward to meeting new, special moms and gaining lasting relationships. The following is details regarding the upcoming Bible Study.
 
For additional information please visit:

Sunday, April 15, 2012

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. 


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.
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

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

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


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

Ryan Tyson, Vice President:
Cell: (850) 443-0222
Email: VP@dsatallahassee.org

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

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 28th Terr.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312



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

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
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                                   


REACHING DOWN'S OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA

Milton FL
850-390-5786


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

Acton Up With Downs, Inc
P.O. Box 9326
Panama City Beach, FL 32417
Member Contacts
Tammy Haight
tdhaight@bellsouth.net
President

Rebecca Stanford
becbaby@gmail.com
Vice 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