About us
Our mission
Full acceptance, potential, and life
At the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW), we’re committed to creating awareness, expanding acceptance, and providing assistance for people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. Through education services, employment services, life enrichment services, fraternal support, and more, we believe people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities deserve the chance at discovering their full potential, enriching their own lives, their communities, and the world at large.
Everyone’s journey matters
Whether you’ve just received a prenatal diagnosis, are navigating schools and transitioning into adulthood, or are supporting an aging individual, we’re here to help individuals and families wherever they are on their journey. Currently, more than 5,500 people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are supported through our services, education, and resources. Helping create communities that are stronger, more interconnected, and more caring, it’s our belief that Wisconsin can be the best supported state for people with Down syndrome and their loved ones.
Our history
Driven by decades of passion
In 1990, the founding families of DSAW came together to chart a new course for their children, and for seven years, they met in hospitals and libraries to discuss their hopes for their children. These meetings laid the foundations for what we now know today as DSAW— a volunteer driven organization (more than 800 volunteers throughout the state) with the mission to empower, educate, and enlighten communities across Wisconsin. We’re able to make a difference in thousands of lives because of this incredible support.
hours of direct services provided in 2024
hours of job support in 2024
events statewide in 2024
Support near you
No matter where you live, there’s support available
Across Wisconsin, there are many chapters and parent support groups that are ready to connect with you.
Our philanthropic partners
We partner with a variety of community organizations to drive change at a level that’s not possible to do alone.
Compliance
Committed to high standards of care
Dedicated to delivering services that strictly conform to the highest standards of accountability for administration, clinical, business, marketing, and financial management, we have a Code of Ethics containing guidelines for providing services and conducting business with the highest standards of ethics. We’re committed to an environment where open, honest communications are the expectation and not the exception. Finally, we believe in and practice self-directed care, meaning that those we serve (or their representatives or guardians) have the authority to make decisions about the types of services they receive.
If you believe there has been a violation of policies or standards, please feel free to contact our civil rights coordinator at 414-327-3729. Click here to read DSAW’s nondiscrimination notice.
DSAW is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.