F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - "Down Syndrome support in Tampa, Florida. Join us!!!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is a close-knit group of families from around the Tampa Bay area.

Come have some fun with us this year and join our growing family!

Welcome F.R.I.E.N.D.S.!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families, Raising, Inspiring, Educating, Nurturing, Down Syndrome) began in 2003 with the birth of a child with Down syndrome. Our mission is to lend support, encouragement, and educational resources to families while promoting understanding and acceptance of Down syndrome in Greater Tampa Bay. We gather every month to share our experiences and learn from one another. These meetings typically feature speakers on topics of interest to the special needs community. Our latest success story is an additional monthly family meet-up held at various public locations in the tri-county areas of Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties.

About Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder that is caused by the presence of an extra copy of the 21st chromosome, which results in varying degrees of physical and mental “abnormalities”. It occurs in one out of every 733 live births and more than 350,000 people in the U.S. have this genetic condition.

Just Like You & Me

Each individual has his/her own unique personality, capabilities and talents. Individuals with Down Syndrome benefit from loving homes, early intervention, inclusive education, appropriate medical care and most of all, positive public attitudes.

Latest From Our News Blog

9 Myths About Raising a Baby with Down Syndrome

(From fudgebananaswirl.com)

Mary Beth Tyson is a fantastic photographer that I met through my other job; she is funny, down-to-earth and happens to be a momma of a baby with Down Syndrome. After [...]

Life with Down syndrome is full of possibilities

(From Liz Szabo, USA TODAY)

The lives of the 250,000 Americans with Down syndrome today are radically different than a generation ago.

Melissa Reilly poses with [...]

Unique Dublin tour guide launched

• KNOW YOUR DUBLIN: Cathy Soden, from Clonskeagh, Pat Clarke, Down Syndrome Ireland, Cllr Clare Byrne (FG) and David O’Brien, from Glasnevin, pictured at [...]

Parents Are Saying…

This group helped my wife & I when we were at our lowest point. We had just found out at 12 weeks that our little girl would have Down Syndrome. Because of this group, we were able to quickly see the very bright future we would ultimately have with our daughter Hannah. Thank you all so much.
Claudio Uribe, Riverview

When I discovered my unborn baby would have Down Syndrome, I immediately found support in this group to help guide me in the process of denial through acceptance and prepare me for the love I now have for my amazing & beautiful daughter.
Tara Sosna, Physician