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Welcome to the
Down Syndrome Network of
Onslow & Carteret Counties, Inc.
CONNECTING FAMILIES
firefighter
Education, Advocacy and Support
You are not alone in this journey.
REACH OUT FOR SUPPORT
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Find Local Resources

Email Us

president@dsnocc.org

Location

Jacksonville, NC

How Can We Help ?

New or Expectant Parents
School / IEP / Advocacy Support
Upcoming Events
Donate or Sponsor

Our Mission

The Down Syndrome Network of Onslow and Carteret Counties (DSNOCC) exists to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families through advocacy, inclusive education, and community support. We are dedicated to raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and creating opportunities that advance equity and meaningful inclusion across all stages of life. Through educational outreach, emotional connection, and systemic advocacy, we’re building a more informed and compassionate community across Onslow, Carteret, and surrounding counties.

501(c)(3) non-profit

Family Connection
We host inclusive events where families can relax, have fun, and connect—Moms’ and Dads’ Nights Out, holiday gatherings, sensory-friendly outings, and meet-ups where siblings are celebrated too.
New & Expectant Families
Whether you received a prenatal diagnosis or just welcomed your baby, we’re here with welcome baskets, local resources, and real-life parent connections so you never have to navigate this journey alone.
School & IEP Advocacy
We support families in understanding IDEA, Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), and their child’s educational rights. We help with IEP prep, parent education, and advocating for inclusive placements in neighborhood schools.
Buddy Walk® & Community Awareness
Our annual Buddy Walk® and 3.21 events bring the community together to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome, raise awareness, and fund the programs that support families all year long.

Programs & Projects

Josie’s Wind Chimes of Hope

Created in loving memory of Josie Quinn, this project provides handmade memorial wind chimes to families who have lost a baby with Down syndrome. Each chime is a reminder that their child’s life mattered and is never forgotten. Overseen by DSNOCC and led by families, Josie’s Wind Chimes of Hope brings comfort, connection, and hope to grieving hearts.

Advocacy & Education

From IDEA “know your rights” guides to parent trainings and school advocacy, DSNOCC is building a more inclusive future—one IEP meeting at a time.

Community Events

We create inclusive spaces where our kids and adults with Down syndrome are welcomed, not just accommodated—from hayrides and holiday nights at Mike’s Farm to family meet-ups and awareness events.

Opportunities for an Amazing Life

Whether you are a parent, caregiver, family member or self-advocate, you are not alone.

Our Impact

We are passionate about serving the Down Syndrome community in Onslow & Carteret Counties.

40

Children Reached Early

Newborns, infants, and toddlers with Down syndrome in Onslow & Carteret
Counties reached with early support, welcome resources, and connection.

65

Individuals & Families Supported

Individuals with Down syndrome and their families receive ongoing support
through advocacy, community programs, and inclusive events each year.

25

Educators & Professionals Equipped

Teachers, therapists, and medical professionals learn practical strategies and
gain a more inclusive mindset through DSNOCC resources and outreach.

Jennifer

Mother

DSNOCC are able to support not only families with individuals with Down syndrome, but they provide information and programs to the community to better understand what Down syndrome is.

Steve

Teacher

Thank you for offering information and techniques to Onslow & Carteret Counties school districts that I can apply in my everyday interactions with my student who has Down syndrome.

April H.

Mother

I feel this platform gives me the guidance and confidence I need to educate my daughter. It gives me lots of ideas and advice.

Need support? Start here.

These forms help us understand how to best support your family. You don’t
need to know which form is “right” — if you’re unsure, just choose the one
that fits best and we’ll guide you from there.

Membership / Family Information Form

Membership / Family Information Form Join 

DSNOCC or update your family’s information so we can connect you with support, events, and resources tailored to your needs.

New Parent Welcome Basket Request

New Parent Welcome Basket Request 

 Welcome baskets are available for families who recently welcomed a baby with Down syndrome. We’d love to celebrate your baby and support your journey.

IEP & Advocacy Support Request

IEP & Advocacy Support Request 

Need help navigating an IEP meeting, understanding IDEA rights, or addressing placement concerns? Our advocacy team is here to support you.

Volunteer Sign-Up Form

Volunteer Sign-Up Form 

 Become part of our DSNOCC Volunteer Community. Help at events, support advocacy, assemble welcome baskets, or lend a hand behind the scenes.

Scholarship Application

Scholarship Application

Graduating seniors with a connection to the special needs community may apply for DSNOCC’s annual scholarship program.

Mini-Grant Application

Mini-Grant Application 

 Mini-grants help cover costs for items, programs, therapy, or resources that support an individual with Down syndrome.

Hardship Assistance Application

Hardship Assistance Application 

For families experiencing unexpected financial difficulties related to the care or well-being of a person with Down syndrome.

“Need help choosing the right form? Email us at DSNOCCboard@gmail.com and we’ll guide you.” 

Upcoming Events

We’re always planning new ways to connect—family meet-ups, parent nights,
awareness events, and more.

Moms’ Night Out
Moms’ Night Out – Quarterly
Dads’ Night Out
Quarterly
Family Meet-Ups
Every other month
Special Projects
Ongoing
3.21 Run for Inclusion + World Down Syndrome Day Celebration
March 21
Annual Buddy Walk®
October
Holiday Experiences & Seasonal Gatherings
November

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest event updates

Change Lives with Your Donations

Your individual donations and corporate sponsorships help us create and distribute the information and resources to support people with Down syndrome, their families, and the network of people who support them.