Interdisciplinary approach Each of these fields alone have tried to find one- dimensional solutions to the problem Each of these fields alone have tried to find one- dimensional solutions to the problem Creative integration of these fields will produce a novel solution that will be more effective and sustainable Creative integration of these fields will produce a novel solution that will be more effective and sustainable

Down Syndrome Friends of Central Florida website Front page will present statement of purpose: Front page will present statement of purpose: “To creatively integrate the latest information from various fields, while advancing new ecological and holistic approaches that emphasize relationships, community involvement, and life fulfillment for those with Down syndrome and their families.” Links Links –For parents and family members –For physicians and healthcare workers –Local organizations and support groups

For parents and family members Basic information in layman’s terms Basic information in layman’s terms –using latest recommended approaches –practical but encouraging Positive stories Positive stories Discussion forum for families Discussion forum for families

For physicians and healthcare workers Relevant clinical and epidemiological information Relevant clinical and epidemiological information –regularly updated –reminders of importance an ecological, integrative approach Positive stories Positive stories Discussion forum for healthcare providers Discussion forum for healthcare providers

Local organizations and support groups Virtual bulletin board for announcements Virtual bulletin board for announcements –upcoming events –awareness campaigns Discussion forum for local groups Discussion forum for local groups

Positive, inspirational stories The pages for both family and physicians will have the same link to another page in our site with stories The pages for both family and physicians will have the same link to another page in our site with stories –success stories of people living with Down syndrome –they will challenge stereotypes about people with Down syndrome

Discussion forums To provide support and to facilitate dissemination of information To provide support and to facilitate dissemination of information Three discussion forums: Three discussion forums: –For parents and families –For physicians –Local organizations and support groups

Volunteers Contributions and maintenance Contributions and maintenance Variety of sources Variety of sources –family members of those with Down syndrome –graduate students or interns –members of local advocacy groups

Success stories can become more common Their potential has exceeded all expectations based on what society felt possible even ten to fifteen years ago Their potential has exceeded all expectations based on what society felt possible even ten to fifteen years ago They are able to obtain and carry out jobs and live their lives semi-independently or independently. They are able to obtain and carry out jobs and live their lives semi-independently or independently.