Get Involved
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin.
DSAW hosts multiple family programs and events each year throughout the state of Wisconsin. Volunteers are essential to the success of DSAW events. The time and generosity of all volunteers is sincerely appreciated. *Please read the description below before applying. The document outlines the minimum qualifications and essential job functions necessary for volunteering at DSAW.
Volunteering opportunities. Get started.
General Volunteering
If you are looking for regular or one-time volunteer opportunities with our organization, we invite you to fill out our General Volunteer Application. You will be contacted by a staff member about upcoming volunteer opportunities on an as-needed basis.
Special Event Volunteering
The Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin has several once a year special events that require volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering at one or more of DSAW’s special events, please complete the application below.
Recurring Volunteer Opportunities
- Fill out our Background Check*
- Fill out our Volunteer Application — note there is a place to upload the background check form within the application.
- DSAW will contact you to coordinate logistics!
*DSAW Inc. reserves the right to decline any volunteer whose background check comes back with charges that align with volunteer duties. Because we work with families and people with disabilities, we will also have to decline anyone with a history of violent crimes (abuse, battery, sexual assault, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions
We are all more alike than different! People with Down syndrome have feelings, wants, and needs just like everyone else. Many people with Down syndrome experience developmental and speech delays. You may have to explain something a couple times or use visuals to aid in understanding. If you do not understand what a self-advocate (a person with Down syndrome) is saying, ask them to repeat themselves. It’s okay!
We are all more alike than different! People with Down syndrome have feelings, wants, and needs just like everyone else. Many people with Down syndrome experience developmental and speech delays. You may have to explain something a couple times or use visuals to aid in understanding. If you do not understand what a self-advocate (a person with Down syndrome) is saying, ask them to repeat themselves. It’s okay!
People with Down syndrome (and other intellectual disabilities) should always be referred to as people first. Instead of a “Down syndrome child,” it’s “a child with Down syndrome.” Also avoid “Down’s child” and describing the condition as “Down’s,” as in, “He has Down’s.”
If you have a question, please email info@dsaw.org.