Founded in 2006, the DSGO is an organization made up of a committed group of parents, professionals and other interested parties that are dedicated to creating an extensive network of support for individuals with Down syndrome and those who love and serve them in Southwest Missouri.

We invite you to explore all that we offer and to join us in advancing the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome.

If you have any questions about the Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks or would like more information please call 885-9905 or 1-888-655-5173 or e-mail info@ozarksdsg.org.

Our mission

is to help individuals with Down syndrome become successful by providing support and education to loving families, bringing awareness to early intervention services, promoting inclusive education, highlighting appropriate medical services, encouraging quality employment opportunities and advocating for community awareness and acceptance.

Down syndrome is a condition caused by a genetic abnormality where the person is born with an extra chromosome.  It affects approximately one in every 1,000 births, and is one of the leading clinical causes of intellectual disability in the world. Down syndrome symptoms vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe.  In addition to physical signs, Down syndrome also can result in delayed physical, mental and social development.

Educational programs, along with a stimulating home environment and good medical care, enable individuals with Down syndrome to become contributing members of their families and communities. 

Did you know?

People with Down syndrome...
• Live independently
• Are fully included in school with their non-disabled peers
• Go to college
• Are employed as artists, actors, child care workers
• Get married
 
Myth: Down syndrome is a rare genetic disorder. 
Truth: Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition. One in every 800 to 1,000 live births is a child with Down syndrome.

Myth: Having a child with Down syndrome will be a burden on a family.
Truth: Children with Down syndrome have many gifts and talents. They bring joy to their family’s lives and enhance the world. There are many families currently seeking to adopt children with Down syndrome.

Myth: All individuals with Down syndrome will have severe developmental or intellectual delays.
Truth: Most people with Down syndrome have cognitive delays that are mild to moderate. IQ is not an adequate measure of the functional status of people with Down syndrome. People with Down syndrome have great potential when given the opportunity to succeed.

Myth: Individuals born with Down syndrome do not experience full or productive lives.
Truth: Individuals with Down syndrome live at home with their families, in group homes or in homes of their own. They are integrated into the regular education system and are active participants in the vocational, social, religious and recreational activities of the community. Many individuals will go to college, work and lead meaningful lives

Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks
P.O. Box 1598
Springfield, MO 65801
Phone:(888) 655-5173
Phone:(417) 885-9905
http://www.ozarksdsg.org
info@ozarksdsg.org

Tweet Tweet

DSGO provides valuable services to individuals with Down syndrome. You can help us by joining our cause. One simple thing you can do is start changing attitudes about Down syndrome. Know the myths and truths. Knowledge is power!

Volunteering is a rewarding way to benefit DSGO and your community. We invite you to get involved in DSGO’s many volunteer opportunities.  Contact Cyndi Bussen for more information on volunteer opportunities.