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About Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee

We Celebrate and Support
Individuals with Something Extra

The Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee is a community of parents, grandparents, siblings, physicians, educators, professionals, friends and self-advocates from forty counties in Middle Tennessee who celebrate and support individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
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What We Do

We enhance the lives of those with “something extra” throughout their lifespan by providing programs that support their development and achievement, facilitate their inclusion in the community and help them lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.

DSAMT connects new & expecting families with valuable information and a welcoming community. It continues to educate, advocate for and support the family throughout the lifespan.

We train educators on best-practice strategies for improving student outcomes. We help physicians, nurses, and other healthcare practitioners provide better care to their patients and better understand their needs and those of their families. We help businesses improve diversity in employment and understand how hiring individuals with Down syndrome can benefit their company.

DSAMT has no membership fees and tries to offer programs at no or low cost to families.

Our Mission

To ensure individuals with Down syndrome are valued for their extraordinary gifts and contributions, empowering them to pursue meaningful, included lives.

Our Vision

DSAMT strives to be recognized by people with Down syndrome and their families, educators, healthcare professionals, employers and the community at large as the leading resource in Middle Tennessee for education, advocacy, support and community for and about Down syndrome.
Pictured left to right: Founders: Joanne Drumright, Sheila Moore, Elise McMillan, (Current Executive Director) Alecia Talbott

Our History

DSAMT officially began in 1995 with a handful of parents of children with Down syndrome who recognized the need for a support organization for families. They envisioned an organization that would connect families to share information and support one another throughout their journeys, that would provide education and resources to caregivers, that would spread awareness and advocate for an inclusive community in which all individuals would be accepted and respected - all to help individuals reach their full potential and enhance the lives of those with Down syndrome.

Three of those founding parents turned that vision into a reality: Joanne Drumright, Sheila Moore and Elise McMillan. It is because of their dedication and commitment more than 21 years ago that DSAMT has become an invaluable resource for families, educators and the community.

Financial Information

DSAMT is a non-profit 501(c)3 tax exempt organization, governed by a fifteen-member Board of Directors. You can view financial statements externally on Giving Matters.

Affiliate Organizations

DSAMT is Proud to be affiliated with great organizations such as the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, National Down Syndrome Society, National Down Syndrome Congress, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Inclusion Network of Nashville, and Creating Healthier Communities.