About DSAW

The Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin's mission is to provide support to Wisconsin families and individuals with Down syndrome and related disabilities through awareness, education, information, programs, services, and the exchange of ideas and experiences. We promote the value of those with Down syndrome in our lives and our communities. We continually strive toward full acceptance, full access, full potential and a full life to make Wisconsin the best supported state for people with Down syndrome and their loved ones.

The founding families of DSAW came together in 1990 to chart a new course for their children. For seven years, this group met in hospitals and libraries to discuss their hopes for their children. From these meetings, the DSAW we know today was born.  Over the course of the year, DSAW touches the lives of more than 5,500 people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) through the provision of services, education, resources and support. DSAW is able to make a difference in thousands of lives because of the incredible support of our community. We are a 30-year-old volunteer driven organization – we have more than 800 volunteers throughout the state!! It is their energy and passion that fuels our mission forward. 

No matter where someone lives in Wisconsin, DSAW can provide them resources and support on their journey. Whether it’s the scared young couple who has just received a diagnosis and fears the unknown; or the families who need support with potty training, learning how to ride a bike, and navigating the public school system; or those who need help transitioning from high-school to adulthood – DSAW is there.

Learn more about how DSAW serves individuals and families across the state.

History

The founding families of DSAW came together in 1990 to chart a new course for their children. For seven years, this group met in hospitals and libraries to discuss their hopes for their children. From these meetings, the DSAW we know today was born.

Over the course of the year, DSAW touches the lives of more than 5,500 people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) through the provision of services, education, resources and support. DSAW is able to make a difference in thousands of lives because of the incredible support of our community. We are a 30-year-old volunteer driven organization – we have more than 800 volunteers throughout the state!! It is their energy and passion that fuels our mission forward.

Compliance

DSAW is dedicated to delivering services that strictly conform to the highest standards of accountability for administration, clinical, business, marketing, and financial management.

Our Code of Ethics contains general guidelines for providing services and conducting business with the highest standards of ethics. We are committed to an environment where open, honest communications are the expectation, not the exception.

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.