NDSS Mission: The mission of the National Down Syndrome Society is to be the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome.

NDSS Vision: The National Down Syndrome Society envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities.   

NDSS Programs: Founded in 1979, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy and Community Engagement. Within these focus areas NDSS engages in various activities, events and programs on topics that are critical to our community, such as federal and state advocacy and public policy, health and wellness, education and employment. NDSS creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families and caregivers across the lifespan and hosts awareness and engagement events throughout the country including the National Buddy Walk® Program, the Times Square Video presentation and New York City Buddy Walk®, Racing for 3.21 on World Down Syndrome Day, Run for 3.21, DC Golf Outing, the annual NDSS Gala & Auction and others. 

Resources & Support
NDSS is committed to providing individuals with Down syndrome, their families, caregivers and the public with comprehensive information across the lifespan, from birth to end of life. Through events, webinars, videos, publications and our website, NDSS provides free resources on a variety of topics including information for new and expectant parents, health and wellness, education and employment. Through our helpline and info email, NDSS answers thousands of requests for support each year. Our staff responds to questions and connects parents, professionals, self-advocates and others with referrals, including to our network of more than 300 local Down syndrome organizations.

Policy & Advocacy
The NDSS Advocacy & Public Policy Program champions federal, state and local policies that positively impact all people with Down syndrome across the country. Through our grassroots advocacy programs, NDSS works with Congress and federal agencies, as well as state and local officials, to develop and improve laws, regulations and policies for the benefit of the Down syndrome community. NDSS also empowers self-advocates, parents and others to influence policy themselves. The NDSS legislative agenda spans the life experience of individuals with Down syndrome from birth to adulthood, centered on five important areas: healthcare and research, education, economic self-sufficiency, community integration and employment. 

Community Engagement
The Down syndrome community is the heart of NDSS. Our community engagement events and activities celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome, raise awareness and acceptance among the general public and connect individuals and families within the community. Through our scholarships, grants and awards program, NDSS supports individuals with Down syndrome in pursuing their dreams. Started in 1995, the National Buddy Walk® Program promotes acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and raises funds for local and national organizations that support the community. Additionally, NDSS hosts awareness and engagement events throughout the country including our Times Square Video presentation and New York City Buddy Walk®, Racing for 3.21 on World Down Syndrome Day, Run for 3.21, DC Golf Outing, annual NDSS Gala & Auction and more.