About the Down Syndrome Network of Onslow & Carteret Counties (DSNOCC)
Connecting families. Enhancing lives. Advocating for inclusion.
The Down Syndrome Network of Onslow & Carteret Counties (DSNOCC) is a
501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with Down syndrome
and supporting the families who love them. We walk alongside families from
diagnosis through adulthood, offering connection, education, advocacy, and
inclusive community experiences.
Whether you are a new parent, navigating school challenges, looking for
resources, or seeking community, you belong here.
The goal of the group is to bring families together to share information, experiences, and ideas with each other, to educate our community about Down syndrome, to celebrate our beautiful children, and to have fun! DSNOCC has grown from just a few families to over 50 and counting! Come join us!
Families
People Trained
People Supported
Our Mission
DSNOCC provides resources and support to individuals with Down syndrome and their families; promotes community understanding and acceptance; encourages meaningful inclusion in all areas of life; and advocates for equal
rights and educational opportunities.
We work to
- Support families from prenatal diagnosis through adulthood
- Promote inclusion in classrooms, workplaces, and the community
- Provide access to scholarships, mini-grants, and hardship assistance
- Equip parents with advocacy tools for IDEA, LRE, and IEPs
- Create spaces where individuals with Down syndrome feel seen, valued,
and connected
Who We Serve
DSNOCC proudly supports individuals and families across Onslow, Carteret, and surrounding counties. We partner with medical providers, school districts, therapists, educators, and community organizations to strengthen awareness and inclusion.
What We Do
Family Support
Welcome baskets, parent mentorship, new and expectant parent outreach.
Financial Support Programs
Hardship assistance, mini-grants, and scholarships for eligible families.
School & IEP Advocacy
Support with IEP preparation, placement questions, and understanding IDEA rights.
Awareness & Education
Community presentations, resource guides, workshops, and advocacy campaigns.
Inclusive Community Events
Moms’ Night Out, Dads’ Night Out, sensory-friendly events, and family meet-ups.
Special Projects
Josie’s Wind Chimes of Hope — memorial wind chimes for families who have lost a baby with Down syndrome.
Our Story
DSNOCC was created by local parents and advocates who believed every family deserved community, connection, and support. Today, our network continues to grow, fueled by passionate volunteers, educators, healthcare
professionals, and families who believe in a more inclusive future.
- Down Syndrome Health Info & Fact Sheets – National and local resources on medical concerns, health screenings, and wellness checklists
- Inclusive Teaching Tips & Guides – Practical strategies for educators and therapists
- Sensory & Accessibility Guidelines – Inclusive events, classrooms, and therapy settings
- Downloadable Worksheets & Tools – Behavior logs, communication trackers, resource checklists, etc.Behavior
- Communication trackers
- Resource Checklist
- Consent / Release Forms
Make A Donation
Your donation is truly appreciated! Your support keeps programs and services open which helps the community grow.
DSNOCC Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Board Members at Large
Get Connected
You don’t have to walk this journey alone. We are here—every step of the way.