Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona, Inc.

Founded in 1991 by Gina Johnson, the mission of Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona is to educate and empower, but especially give hope to individuals who have Down syndrome . We champion and celebrate ALL people who have Down syndrome. We promote positive acceptance, understanding, and inclusion.

Testimonials

Janice Morrison
April 8, 2021
On August 14, 2019, our grandson Malek Nicholas Morrison was born in Nagoya, Japan to my son and his wife. We, the grandparents, live in Phoenix, AZ. I traveled to Japan, stayed for 8 weeks to help out- Malek has an older brother and sister too!

Upon my return home, I had a huge package waiting for me from Gina's nonprofit. My husband and I opened it and were in awe of the educational material in it, books, articles, as well as fun stuff, a DS T shirt, etc. This opened the door for us to Gina's wonderful organization. What a world of information at our fingertips to share with my son and his wife about babies with DS! I mailed some of the stuff to Japan after we read it all. I look at her posts and information daily. We did not feel alone- we had help in navigating through the stigma, as well as the joy our DS grandson had brought into our lives. We will forever be grateful and continue to be involved locally!

Crystal, Vance, and Ariston Danzy
April 11, 2021
From the moment we found out that our child was probably going to have Down Syndrome, the worries began. Not the worries about him not being a "normal" child, but the worries about how others would treat him. Little did we know how much of a waste of time and energy that would be.

Sharing Down Syndrome's founder, Gina, walked into our hospital and opened the door to what could and would be. She shared her energy and understanding, her belief and positivity. She gave us resources and knowledge which built our confidence. The organization gave us connection, support, pride, and hope. We walked out of the hospital with an abundance of nervousness but confident we could be great with the help of family, friends, and the guidance and support of Sharing Down Syndrome AZ. We developed the knowledge and courage to pay it forward to other families needing the encouragement and hope, because of what this organization and Gina have done for us. We are forever grateful and will always find ways to support Sharing Down Syndrome AZ. I have even thought about ways to create a version or extension of this for our Casa Grande Community. Thank you Gina for your vision, your heart, and your drive!

Brandy Flores
April 7, 2021
Hello. I have a 5 year old grandson with Down Syndrome. My daughter was only 16 when she had him and was scared to death because of his diagnosis. She had him a month early and he had to stay in NICU for 5 weeks. We got in touch with Gina and Sharing Down Syndrome. She came to the hospital and sat and visited with us. She answered questions and helped us with resources. She brought Jayson a beautiful blanket and a journal. By the time she left the hospital we felt so much better about what lay ahead of us. We have participated in the Sharing Down Syndrome walks every year since. If we ever have any questions about resources we know she can help us. I honestly feel that her visit with us that day was such a blessing and made us realize we had everything under control. Thank you Gina for everything you do for these beautiful children and families.