The Down Syndrome Association of Orange County

The Down Syndrome Association of Orange County (DSAOC) is the original Down syndrome organization for greater Orange County - serving families and our community since 1978. DSAOC’s Mission is to create a place for connection, information and hope for people with Down syndrome and their families throughout greater Orange County, to promote Down syndrome awareness through community outreach, and to offer programs, services and support that aim to empower individuals with Down syndrome to reach their full potential. Our Vision is to be a one-stop-shop for all things Down syndrome related, and to be a model organization for community collaboration and Down syndrome awareness, to change perceptions and change lives.

We were founded in 1978 by a small group of dedicated parents sitting around a kitchen table putting together resource materials and providing support to new parents. Now, more than thirty five years later, DSAOC continues to build on those strong traditions of the past by serving more than 2,000 families in and around Orange County.

The DSAOC Center, located in Costa Mesa, is the venue for many of our activities, events, seminars, and support groups. In addition, much of our work includes outreach and collaboration with an expanding network of educators, healthcare providers, researchers, therapists, employers, policymakers, and many others in the community. You too are invited to join us in our journey to a world where every person with Down syndrome is a valued member of society.