New Parents

Young girl playing with toy camera
If you’ve just learned that your baby, or another baby who is close to you, has Down syndrome, you are probably experiencing a wide range of emotions. The parents and family members of CRDSS know just what you are going through. The foundation of our community is our shared story about the unbelievable joy (and the scary unknown) of having a child who has Down syndrome in our lives. We understand and you are not alone.

​We welcome you to contact us with any questions and we would be honored to help you find the connections which will guide you on this new and wonder-filled journey.

Visit the National Down Syndrome Society Helpline if you want to talk to someone about your baby’s diagnosis immediately. If you would like to speak to someone locally, contact our executive director, Lauren Smith, at lauren@centreregiondownsyndrome.org or call (814) 360-7112. We want to learn how to best support your family and have a variety of contacts and resources to share. We love to shower joy with a welcome basket filled with goodies for your family too if you'd like.
Of course, one of the best things about being a part of the CRDSS society is interacting with individuals of all ages who have Down syndrome. Through their wide range of inspiring abilities, personalities and accomplishments, you will see that the future for the child you love is wide-open and promising.

So, if you are new to Down syndrome (or just new to the area), we welcome your participation in one of our upcoming events. To learn more about what we have planned for the year, explore this website and review the events page.
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If you prefer small gatherings over larger social events, feel free to contact us and we’ll help you make a one-on-one with a family in the area. Just send an email to
lauren@centreregiondownsyndrome.org
​or call (814) 360-7112 and someone will be in touch with you shortly.

Agencies & Informational Sites

Global Down Syndrome Foundation

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation is a public non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to significantly improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through Research, Medical care, Education and Advocacy.

Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network

DSDN is the largest national organization supporting new and expectant parents with a Down syndrome diagnosis. The mission of the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network is to connect, support, and provide accurate information to parents - and the medical professionals who serve them - from the time of diagnosis through age 3 while fostering the opportunity for lifelong connections.

National Down Syndrome Congress

The mission of the National Down Syndrome Congress is to be the national advocacy organization for Down syndrome and to provide leadership in all areas of concern related to persons with Down syndrome. NDSC is a major source of support and empowerment to persons with Down syndrome and their families.

National Down Syndrome Society

The National Down Syndrome Society supports young researchers seeking the causes of, and answers to, many of the medical, genetic, behavioral and learning problems associated with Down syndrome; sponsors internationally renowned scientific symposia; advocates on behalf of families and individuals affected by this condition; provides information and referral services through its toll-free number; and develops educational materials, many of which are distributed free of charge.

The UPLifting Guidebook

The UPLifting Guidebook is an informational website which explores the issues of independence, offering helpful lessons and tools on assisting the young adult with Down syndrome, and their families, successfully transition to independence.

Local / Central Pennsylvania Resources

Two young girls posing for a picture
You are not alone in trying to find the best care and connections for your child and ultimately, your family. Please contact us with ANY QUESTIONS and we will be happy to talk with you and help you make the connections which will help your family.

The following list offers resources and contacts that might be helpful for you. It is by no means comprehensive however many of the professionals have worked with our member families.
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