Every year, on March 21 (3/21 in honor of the third copy of the 21st chromosome that signifies Down syndrome), people celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. And this year was no different. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic was impacting communities across the country, many of those celebrations looked a bit different in year’s past. But the celebratory spirit was just as strong, if not stronger than ever. Here are a few examples of how families who have adopted a child with Down syndrome through the National Down Syndrome Adoption Network chose to celebrate:

  • Shared pictures, videos and stories on social media
  • Wore blue and yellow and/or crazy socks
  • Participated in virtual events
  • Hung chimes in their community
  • Enjoyed some of their loved one's favorite things

Fun Fact

The NDSAN currently has approximately 40 families on its registry who are interested in adopting a child with Down syndrome. Our goal is to have at least one family in each state (we currently have 24 states represented).

Adoption 101

The NDSAN supports both private and public domestic adoptions. The majority of situations, especially involving newborns are private adoptions. All information on these adoptions are kept confidential. Only families on the NDSAN registry who meet the birth family and the baby’s criteria will receive information. If you are interested in learning more about joining the NDSAN registry click here.

The NDSAN does post information about children in foster care who are eligible for public adoption. You can learn more about these children here. Families must have an approved home study to be considered for these situations.

COVID-19 Update

As the NDSAN serves families across the country, the majority of the work has always been done “remotely.” This has allowed for a smooth transition and no interruption in services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many of the families we serve are being impacted in various ways. We continue to work to support each family’s unique needs throughout the adoption journey.

The mission of the National Down Syndrome Adoption Network (NDSAN) is to ensure that all children born with Down syndrome have the opportunity to grow up in a loving family. The NDSAN provides information, resources and support to expectant, new and adoptive families.

National Down Syndrome Adoption Network

a program provided by the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati
4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212
513-709-1751 • stephanie@ndsan.org

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