organizations.In 1985 four families of children born with Down syndrome came together to share stories and develop resources. The families learned that each child was distinct and yet how much they resembled their own siblings and parents. Families shared information about services, resources and practical suggestions. They discussed how to motivate children with Down syndrome to move and learn. In 1995, the group incorporated as a charitable organization under the name Edmonton Down Syndrome Society (EDSS).Dedicated to improving the lives of individuals born with Down syndrome, EDSS develops opportunities and experiences for people with Down syndrome to learn, grow and achieve individual potential: at home, in school, at work and in community life.EDSS's mandated service area runs from Red Deer, north through the territories. We help provide the needed head-start, knowing that each person with Ds is an individual as unique as everyone else –with talents, feelings, interests, preferences, opinions and abilities. We are the Down syndrome Centre for Excellence, we offer extensive programs and activities including:(i) In-house early intervention therapeutic development-programs for individuals born with Ds: (a) speech, physical, occupational and behavior therapy by certified therapists; (b) a professional literacy program sponsored by EOCF and in-house musical-theatre programs.(ii) Volunteer-run community-based programs: basketball/bowling leagues; self-advocacy; community awareness; New-parent group (Visiting-Parent and Peer-2-Peer Teams); Parent-and-child peer-support; and Parent-learning workshops.(iii) Down syndrome community: social and fundraising events, with community and corporate partnerships, including the University of Alberta Down Syndrome Pediatric Medical Clinic (which treats individuals until age 20) and in-house Family Liaison professional.For our most essential therapy programs, we subsidize our members – so that no one is denied.

Speech Therapy Programs Centre Stage Musical Theatre Baby Toddler Drop in Club 21 Down Sydrome Clinic at the Stollery Family Support Liaison In Community Medical Clinic through Blackford PCN Physio-Therapy Visiting Parents Team Education Committee Social Committee Occupational Therapy Behavior Therapist Feeding and Swallowing Therapist Learning Sessions Workshops Adult Leadership Committee Donut Dads Moms Group Bowling Basketball