Down Syndrome Association (Singapore)

History

Early in 1995, a group of parents of children with Down syndrome recognized that a great need existed in Singapore to support and educate families, professionals and the public about Down syndrome. Out of a meeting held on 1 October 1995, the Down syndrome Support Group was formed. In May 1996, the group organized and hosted, with great success, the 2nd Asia Pacific Conference on Down syndrome. The enthusiasm generated amongst parents, professionals and community members spurred the formal registration of the group as Down Syndrome Association (Singapore) on 16 September 1996. The Association was registered as a Charity under the Charities Act on 17 January 1997 (no. 1229) and awarded official recognition by the National Council of Social Services on 4 July 1997.

DSA is a self-funding, non-profit Social Service Agency with IPC (Institute of Public Character) status, which works closely and regularly with healthcare and educational professionals, and voluntary welfare organizations. The Association is affiliated to international bodies such as Down Syndrome International (DSI), the Asia-Pacific Down Syndrome Federation (APDSF), Asian Federation of Mental Retardation (AFMR) and the International Association of the Scientific Study of Intellectual Disabilities (IASSID).In April 2004, DSA was invited to organize and host the 8th World Down Syndrome Congress in Singapore, which attracted participants from more than 34 countries.