Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Red River Valley Down Syndrome Society a research organization?

No.  Although we support other organizations such as the National Down Syndrome Society which in turn supports research on Down syndrome, we are not a research organization ourselves.  We are primarily a support organization for parents and other family members as well as individuals with Down syndrome.  We strive to provide resources to those individuals.  We also offer a variety of programs as well as planned events promoting the acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome.

Is the Down Syndrome Resource Center a school?

In a way, but no...not technically.  One of the aspects of our mission is to educate.  We do so by providing information to parents, families, educators, professionals, and community members about Down syndrome.  Our REACH Center is the location of our computer/learning lab, our lending library, and our literacy and math instruction program for children with Down syndrome.  So, we can see where someone might think of us as an educational institution.  However, we do not offer full instruction to school-age children, but rather supplemental instruction and one-on-one tutoring.

Is membership free?

Absolutely!  It is free not only to parents, but to all who are interested in getting involved in the lives of those with Down syndrome.  We encourage educators and healthcare professionals to become members.  Members of RRVDSS receive a newsletter once monthly as well as weekly e-mail updates as necessary to keep them informed of interesting information and deadlines.  It is easy to join...just click on the Become A Supporter link on the menu bar to the left. 

How can RRVDSS help me?

Parents are welcome to enjoy our activities, our workshops, our lending library, and have full access to our staff for help with resources and issues they might be having with their children with Down syndrome.  Our learning program is a great way to give your child the added help and you the added knowledge of how to help your child in school.

Other family members find the information in our workshops very interesting and helpful in their lives as a grandparent, sibling, aunt or uncle of a person with Down syndrome.  All family members are invited to the support meetings, the fundraising activities, the social events and the educational programs we offer.

Teachers and healthcare professionals are a big part of the lives of individuals with Down syndrome.  RRVDSS makes it a point to offer our services, support, information to those individuals.  Our educational workshops are always free and open to professionals as well as parents.  We have quite a few teachers on our board that are always willing to help with advice and resources.  Our lending library is a great way to find out more about Down syndrome.  Become a member and stay informed!