National & International Websites
- About Learning Disabilities
- Best Buddies
- Brighter Tomorrows
This website was created to support families by providing accurate information about Down syndrome ~ *Also provides Spanish Translation Website
- D.A.D.S. Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome
- Disability Scoop - The Premier Source For Developmental Disability News
- Down Syndrome E-Mail List, Newsgroups, and Bulletin Boards
- Down Right Beautiful - Their mission is to help the rest of the world understand the positive potential of all people with Down syndrome and to share in the unique beauty that they possess.
- Government Housing & Mortgage Help for the Disabled
- International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association
- K12 Academics
- Lose the Training Wheels
- National Down Syndrome Society
- National Down Syndrome Congress
- National Association for Down Syndrome
- One Place for Special Needs
- Special Friends - For people with learning disabilities and their careers
- Special Olympics - National Site
- TOTAL EDUCATION SOLUTIONS, the special education experts
Total Education Solutions (TES) provides innovative, quality educational services to individuals with exceptional needs. In home, community, school, and clinical settings, we foster opportunities for success.
- UPS for DownS, United Parent Support for Down Syndrome
- World Down Syndrome Day
- Canal Down21 ~ The number one globally recognized reference website on Down syndrome in Spanish
Canal Down21 - USA ~ This is a specific portal from the main site geared toward Hispanic American families
- National Down Syndrome Society ~ Spanish
Available Free, Downloadable e-Books in Spanish ~
A method to teach reading and writing which is widely acknowledged in Spain and Latin America that includes abundant graphic material which can be reproduced and adapted to the needs of each child. Available in two formats: PDF and html.
A translation of the excellent book by McGuire and Chicoine on mental wellness in adolescents and adults. Available only in PDF format.
On line Spanish journal focusing on Spanish speaking adults with Down syndrome, published 3 times per year.
On line Spanish journal focusing on general Down syndrome topics, published monthly.
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- Down's Syndrome Scotland ~ helping people realise their potential
- English-Hmong Dictionary of Special Education (PDF)
- Fundacion Sindrome de Down de Cantabria
- Global Connection : A support group for Asian parents of children born with Down syndrome
This is an online support group founded by Dr. Sindoor Desai (mother to Sujeet who is self advocate & musician) specifically for Asian parents of children with Down syndrome so they feel more comfortable to share their concerns as a family
- National Down Syndrome Society has a hotline with translators available in over 50 languages, including their number & information for new parents
Wisconsin-based Websites
- Madison Area Down Syndrome Society
- ASPIRO - Green Bay & Brown County
Creating opportunities for people with disabilities;
Serving all ages of the developmentally disabled in Brown County;
Twelve programs, including a Work Services Program with a government contract;
Coordinates a Green Bay-area annual Buddy Walk
1673 Dousman Street, Green Bay, WI 53403 [map] (920) 498-2599, or ssorenson@aspiroinc.org
- Milwaukee County Recreational Calendar
- Special Olympics Wisconsin
- Cooperative Education Service Agencies in Wisconsin
- Find out who your local legislators are
- Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin
- Independence First
- Penfield Children's Center
- Special Therapies
- Down to Earth Oshkosh
- St. Coletta Day School of Milwaukee
St. Coletta Day School is an educational program best suited for cognitively disabled students age 8 to 16, capable of academic achievement, who possess sufficient self-care skills to be independent. During the enrollment process, the potential student and his or her parents/guardians meet with the administrator. The student is evaluated using informal measures.
- Fox Valley Sibling Support Network
It is the mission of the Fox Valley Sibling Support Network (FVSSN) to create the opportunity for individuals who have brothers and sisters with special needs to understand, accept and thrive in their unique family situation and in the community.
- The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities
The Wisconsin Council on Developmental Disabilities was established to advocate on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities, foster welcoming and inclusive communities, and improve the disability service system. The Council's mission is to help people with developmental disabilities become independent, productive, and included in all facets of community life.
- Colors By Fulton
Fulton Damm is owner of micro enterprise business Colors By Fulton in Madison, WI. The joy art brings to Fulton's life is evident in his work. Fulton is an adult artist with Down syndrome.
- Dan Stace
Dan Stace is a Madison based adult artist with Down syndrome. The joy art brings to Dan's life is evident in his work.
- ALAS
Alianza Latina Aplicando Soluciones is an organization that serves the needs of individuals with special needs and their families in Milwaukee's Hispanic communities. Esperanza Down is a spanish speaking parent support group for families who have a loved one with Down syndrome. They meet monthly at Alianza Latina Offices and childcare is provided, however, you must RSVP for childcare. For more information, contact alianza.latina07@yahoo.com.
- Best Buddies Wisconsin
The mission of Best Buddies is to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- DSAW ~ Fox Cities
A Chapter of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW) consisting of a network of parents that volunteers to provide information, resources and opportunities for families of individuals with Down syndrome; Also, maintains an email group for families to request advice, find recommended providers, and share information on opportunities in the Fox Cities area and much, much more
- DSAW ~ Chippewa Valley Connection
A Chapter of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW) consisting of a network of parents that volunteers to provide information, resources and opportunities for families of individuals with Down syndrome;
- DSAW ~ Green Bay Connection
A Chapter of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW) consisting of a network of parents that volunteers to provide information, resources and opportunities for families of individuals with Down syndrome; You can also find DSAW's Green Bay Connection on Facebook. Contact Samantha Platkowski for more information or how you can get involved - samantha.platkowski@gmail.com or phone (920) 405-8680
Member Favorites
Other Valuable Resources
The Family Resource Connection
The Family Resource Connection was established in 1997 by a group of community members seeking a vehicle to provide comprehensive, community-based services for families in Northern Wisconsin. During a year-long feasibility study, the core group investigated principles of family support, models for family resource centers and assessed the needs of Northwoods residents. A business plan was developed encompassing all that was learned and submitted to Sacred Heart-Saint Mary's Hospitals, Inc., with a request for funding to open the Family Resource Connection. Saint Mary's Hospital's administration granted the request for start-up funds and also became the fiscal agent to the newly formed family resource center.
Easter Seals Southeast Wisconsin
Easter Seals Southeast Wisconsin 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.
Parent to Parent Wisconsin
Parent to Parent of Wisconsin provides parent support to parents of children with special needs through a one-to-one connection with another parent who has similar experience and who knows firsthand about the feelings and realities that come with having a child with special needs.
Specs 4 Us - Superior precision eyewear for children who are special
SPECS4US has designed a frame specially formatted to fit children with Down syndrome. With a pair of Erin's World frames your child will no longer be constrained from their eyeglasses. They will be able to explore the world freely and clearly without wearing glasses that are too big or are constantly slipping down their noses. These frames are made with your child's unique needs in mind and solve the problems that regular eyeglasses never could.
Wisconsin Sensory Integration Therapy Resource Guide (PDF)
This is a partial listing of therapists and centers providing sensory integration therapy in the state of Wisconsin. Most often therapists providing sensory integration services are occupational therapists with additional training and experience in sensory integration techniques. The information contained on this list does not constitute an endorsement. Contact therapists and centers directly for more information about costs, insurance, Medicaid, and for therapy specific information. Request therapists with expertise in sensory integration. Information current: 6/08
Universal Checklist for Identifying Infants and Toddlers Eligible for Early Intervention
The Tracking, Referral and Assessment Center for Excellence (TRACE) has released a new practice guide entitled Universal Checklist for Identifying Infants and Toddlers Eligible for Early Intervention by Carl J. Dunst, Carol M. Trivette, & Glinda Hill. The guide describes the development and use of a universal checklist designed to be used by primary referral sources for identifying infants and toddlers who may be eligible for early intervention. For more information and to access the practice guide click here.
Down Syndrome Clinic of Wisconsin - Children's Hospital
This organization is committed to improving the health and well-being of children and adults with Down syndrome, which may include complex issues. This requires a comprehesive, multidisciplinary health care approach. The DSCW is connected with a statewide network to assist families in need.
Katie Beckett Program - Supplemental Insurance
Children born with DS often experience medical complications at birth, many of which today are corrected with routine procedures. In addition, DS children will benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy in their first months and years. But all of this comes at a cost.
While your personal health insurance may provide coverage, Katie Beckett (named after a young girl in Iowa when the program started under the Reagan Administration) is part of Medicaid. Children who are not eligible for other Medicaid programs because the income or assets of their parents are too high may be eligible for Medicaid this way. Our experience shows us that most DS kids qualify for Katie Beckett benefits, so make sure to contact your local Katie Beckett representative to determine your own eligibility.
Birth to 3 - Wisconsin's Early Therapy Intervention Program
This is Wisconsin's early intervention program for infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities. Through it, your child will receive (in most cases) in-home physical, occupational and speech therapy depending on his or her needs, often at little-to-no cost to your family.
A federal law, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), provides a framework for a comprehensive program and coordinates developmental, health and social services within the community.
Estate Planning Resources - Financial
While not affiliated directly with DSAW, the following individuals have provided valuable advice to several members of the organization regarding their long term financial and estate strategies:
Rick Boyd, President
Financial Advisor / Special Care Planner
HUB Financial Group LLC, Brookfield
(262) 432-7213;rboyd@finsvcs.com
www.massmutual.com/specialcare
Harry Dorman, LUTCF
Financial Advisor / Special Care Planner
MassMutual Financial Group, Appleton
(920) 886-9469;hdorman@finsvcs.com
www.massmutual.com/specialcare
David Giddings, CLU
Financial Services Representative / Investment Advisor Representative
RC Insurance Services, Inc., Hartland
(262) 367-8611;dgiddings@rcinsure.com
Gene LaRock, CLU, ChFC
Financial Advisor
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, Eau Claire
(715) 839-9692; gene.larock@nmfn.com
www.nmfn.com/genelarock
Robert S. Johnston, LUTCF
Financial Services Representative, Financial Advisor
and Special Needs Planner - The MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning
(414) 615-4912; bob.johnston@nextlevelpwm.com
www.nextlevelpwm.com
Lori Troyer
Registered Representative, Member NASD, SIPC
Woodbury Financial Services, Hartland
(262) 367-6656; ltroyer@woodburyfinancial.net
Gregory Zwick
Financial Advisor
Financial Network Investment Corporation, an ING Company, Wauwatosa
(414) 258-0806;gzwick@cfswi.com
Estate Planning Resources - Legal
Nancy L. Shue, Attorney
Storm, Balgeman, Miller & Klippel, S.C.
1011 N. Mayfair Road, Suite 200
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Nshue@sbm-law.com
Tel. 414.453.8500
Fax 414.453.0604
Website: www.tosalawyers.com
Mark J. Rogers, Attorney
Angermeier & Rogers, LLP
312 East Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 210
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Contact Mark Rogers
Tel. 414.289.9200
Fax 414.289.0664
Website: www.wiestateplanners.com
Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS)
Listing of services in Wisconsin for those with disabilities. Also checkhttp://www.dhfs.state.wi.us/ for all services DHFS offers.
Wisconsin First Step
Statewide information and referral service dedicated to helping families and professionals find resources for children birth to 21 years with special needs. Call their hotline at 1-800-642-7837 to find the closest regional center for CSHCN, Children with Special Health Care Needs.
Family Support Program
In-home support for families with children who have severe disabilities. Offers information and help in finding service programs and community resources, some funding to purchase necessary goods and services unavailable elsewhere and links to other families to build a support network.
Special Education in Plain Language
A user-friendly interactive handbook on Special Education Laws, Policies and Practices in Wisconsin.
WISCONSIN FACETS - Wisconsin Family Assistance Center for Education, Training & Support, Inc.
- Informs and instructs parents how to obtain appropriate education
- Works to improve education results
- Helps resolve issues between families and schools or other agencies
- Provides a critical resource to connect families to community resources
ARC Milwaukee/ARC Wisconsin
Since 1949, ARC Milwaukee has worked to improve the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. ARC facilitates an individualized Lifelinks care plan that enables persons with disabilties to live safely and successfully, including medical, legal, financial, residential, recreation, employment, transportation and transition needs. Contact the ARC at (414) 774-6255. Not from the Milwaukee area? ARC Wisconsin, based in Madison, can assist. (608) 251-9272.
A.R.C.H. Medical Center
A.R.C.H. Center stands for Autism Recovery and Comprehensive Health Center. A.R.C.H. Center is located in the Franklin Industrial Park in Franklin, Wisconsin. We are 10 minutes south of the airport and 2 miles west of I-94 off of the Ryan Road Exit.
Our mission is to provide an all inclusive biomedical treatment for adults and children. Our treatment provides a full comprehensive continuum of care. We offer greater changes for recovery from Autism, Autoimmune, Nutritional deficiency and degenerative brain diseases. Our mission is to show our clients the road to better health. Services provided by A.R.C.H. are not limited to Autism. We also treat conditions that have not responded properly to conventional medication.
Student Accessibilty Center (SAC) - UW Milwaukee
Located at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, this organization provides services to students with physical, learning, sensory or psychological disabilities that affect a major life activity.
For more information, e-mail sachelp@uwm.edu
Bridges4Kids News Digest
Free online weekly newsletter regarding issues in special education. Get the latest weekly updates on:
- State and National education news
- Special Education
- Disability Issues
- Legislative Updates
- Resources, conferences & much, much more!
HOPE REIGNS
Therapeutic Riding Services - Maria Rozek, MSW
NARHA Registered Instructor
Call for a free initial phone consultation (414) 628-2169
djablonowski@wi.rr.com
LifeStriders Therapeutic Riding Center
LifeStriders Therapeutic Riding Center offers fun and therapeutic recreational activities for children, adults and seniors with many types of disabilities in the greater Milwaukee and Waukesha area.
LifeStriders is certified through the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association. Our volunteers and Staff includes Physical Therapists, Educational Psychologists, Counselors, OT's, Rehabilitation nurses, Adaptive PE teachers and caring volunteers that assist with each lesson.
We are currently working with a number of clients with down syndrome who enjoy the physical activity and challenges that therapeutic riding has to offer.
Please visit our website at www.lifestriders.org or call us at (262) 565-6124 for more information.
Midwest Therapeutic Riding Program, Inc.
1117 North Britton Road
Union Grove, WI 53182
(262) 878-2000
Stephanie Kubarth, Director
mtehc@aol.com
Hippotherapy and therapeutic horseback riding for children with physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities
HealthReach Rehabilitation Services, Inc.
11035 West Forest Home Avenue
Hales Corners, WI 53130
(414) 529-4141
HealthReach Rehabilitation Services is truly a company where care comes first. As Wisconsin's premier provider of comprehensive and innovative physical, occupational and speech therapy services, we're committed to helping all individuals achieve the highest possible level of physical function and quality of life.
The Southeast Regional Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs
The Southeast Regional Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (formerly known as the Special Needs Family Center), is one of five Regional Centers in the state of Wisconsin. They serve families and providers who care for children and youth birth to 21 years of age with special health care needs. Examples of special health care needs include cerebral palsy, cancer, diabetes, autism, severe asthma, developmental delay, hearing loss and many others. We serve families and providers in the following counties: Jefferson, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha counties.