Our Mission

Down Syndrome Forgotten is dedicated to bridging the gap between transition-age youth (ages 16-24) with intellectual disabilities, autism, and related conditions, and the resources they need to thrive. We connect families with respite care providers, vocational training programs, and advocacy resources, ensuring that young adults have the support, skills, and opportunities needed for independence and success.

Our Vision

We envision a world where young adults with disabilities are empowered, celebrated, and fully supported as they transition into adulthood. Through resource connections, advocacy, and community engagement, we aim to create a seamless path from school to employment, independent living, and long-term success.

---

What We Do

At Down Syndrome Forgotten, we help families navigate the transition years by connecting them with essential services in five key areas:

Respite Care Service Connections

While we do not currently provide direct respite care, we help families find trusted providers who specialize in caring for young adults with disabilities. Our team offers:

Personalized referrals to respite care providers who meet each family’s specific needs.

Guidance on eligibility and funding options for respite care through state programs or private pay.

Ongoing support and advocacy to ensure families receive the services they need.

Caregiver’s Chronicles – Online Support System

Caregiver’s Chronicles is our online support hub designed to help families:

Connect with service providers for respite care, therapy, vocational training, and housing services.

Find peer support by engaging with other caregivers navigating similar experiences.

Stay informed on upcoming events, workshops, and advocacy training opportunities.

Join Caregiver’s Chronicles here: Caregiver’s Chronicles

By joining Caregiver’s Chronicles, families can stay connected to resources, training opportunities, and a strong support network.

Vocational & Independent Living Support

We prepare young adults for employment and independent living by offering:

Resume building and interview skills to help with job placement.

Partnerships with businesses hiring individuals with disabilities to create employment opportunities.

Life skills coaching, including cooking, budgeting, transportation, and self-care.

Meet My Superpower – Community Engagement Events

Meet My Superpower is a community-driven event series designed to foster connections and support for families in Phoenix, AZ. These events provide:

A space for caregivers and families to connect with others navigating the transition years.

Opportunities to meet service providers offering support for young adults with disabilities.

A platform to celebrate the strengths of young adults with disabilities.

Human Rights & Disability Advocacy Training

We empower families and professionals by providing:

Workshops on disability rights, state benefits, and legal protections.

Guidance on navigating special education, vocational rehab, and government programs.

Training for self-advocates, helping young adults speak up for their needs.

---

Our Impact

Since our founding, Down Syndrome Forgotten has:

Connected families to vital services, making the transition to adulthood easier.

Provided respite care referrals, ensuring caregivers get the support they need.

Helped young adults gain job skills and independence through coaching and vocational partnerships.

Created safe spaces for families to connect through Meet My Superpower events.

Advocated for disability rights and education, ensuring young adults receive the support they deserve.

Our work is changing lives, one family at a time.

---

Looking Ahead

Our long-term goal is to expand our impact by:

Building a strong network of trusted respite care providers for ages 16-24.

Growing our vocational training initiatives to help more young adults gain independence.

Expanding Meet My Superpower events to reach more families across Phoenix.

Exploring opportunities to open a dedicated respite and resource center in the future.