Unique Down Syndrome Support and Advocacy Group Organizes in Ocean County, NJ

Brick, NJ, July 05, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Jersey Shore Down Syndrome Association (JSDSA) today announced a call for new members. The JSDSA is the only non-profit organization in the Ocean County area dedicated solely to the Down syndrome community. The mission of the JSDSA is to empower and support individuals with Down syndrome and their families through increased awareness, advocacy, education and inclusion.

“There is such a desperate need for an organization of this type in the area. Some of the experiences that our parents have been through are stressful and frightening, and completely avoidable. Parents need a reliable source for information and access to proven resources, as well as a supportive community environment, and we can provide that,” says Valerie Marsden-Gray, President.

The next meeting of the Jersey Shore Down Syndrome Association is scheduled for 6 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at the Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library. Membership is open to all self-advocates, as well as parents, relatives, friends, community members and professionals desiring to make a positive impact on the life of a person with Down syndrome.

JSDSA’s First Annual Step Up For Down Syndrome Awareness Walk is scheduled to be held on Saturday October 13, 2012 at Windward Beach in Brick, NJ. The day will include the walk, food and activities. Individuals and teams are encouraged to register to participate in this fun event. Corporate sponsorships are currently available. Funds raised from this event will directly support the mission of the organization, and will be the driving force behind the organization’s programs such as the desperately needed Parents First Call program, unveiling later this month.

Founded in 2011, the Jersey Shore Down Syndrome Association is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization. The JSDSA relies on donations from the community as well as corporate partners within the community. The JSDSA is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Congress and the National Down Syndrome Society. To learn more about the JSDSA, join, donate or discuss sponsorship, visit www.jsdsa.org or telephone Valerie at &732) 255-5737.