About DSORC

The Down Syndrome Office & Resource Center (DSORC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting individuals with Down syndrome, their families, caregivers, and communities with the information, resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.

At the heart of DSORC is the development of a free, easy-to-search online resource hub that brings together trusted information, tools, and resources from the nation’s leading Down syndrome advocacy organizations, including the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC), and others. Our goal is to make reliable information easier to find, understand, and access—all in one place.

Our Story

DSORC was founded by Lena Armstrong-Strober, a mother whose personal journey advocating for her daughter, Aleeya, inspired a broader commitment to helping individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Through years of navigating educational systems, healthcare services, community programs, and the challenges of securing appropriate support and opportunities for Aleeya, Lena experienced firsthand how difficult it can be for families to find reliable information, understand their options, and connect with the right resources.

Determined to help other families navigate these challenges, Lena became actively involved in Down syndrome advocacy. She served for eight years on the Board of the Rio Grande Down Syndrome Network, where she established its Advocacy Committee to help families better understand their rights, access resources, and advocate for meaningful change.

These experiences inspired Lena to create DSORC—an organization built on the belief that families should not have to navigate complicated systems, search countless websites, or fight for every opportunity on their own.

Our Vision

Beyond providing resources, DSORC promotes advocacy, education, collaboration, and public awareness to improve opportunities in healthcare, education, employment, housing, and community inclusion.

By connecting individuals, families, professionals, and organizations, DSORC strives to build a more informed, inclusive, and supportive world where people with Down syndrome are valued, empowered, and given every opportunity to reach their full potential at every stage of life.