Be Part of the EDSS Community

With more than 300 registered members, the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society is a community that spans every age and stage of life—from welcoming a new baby to supporting adults as they build meaningful, independent lives.

Every member brings a unique story, and together those stories help us build a stronger community for today and a more hopeful future for the next generation.

Whether you are a family member, self-advocate, community member, or organization, there is a place for you at EDSS.

Register or Renew Your Membership

Why Become a Member? 

EDSS membership connects you with people, programs, resources, and support designed to help individuals with Down syndrome and their families thrive.

Your membership provides access to:

• Community & Family Support — Connect with our Director of Community & Family Services for guidance, support, and help navigating disability services and systems.
• Programs & Professional Services — Members born with Down syndrome receive priority access to EDSS programs and professional services, including speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, behavioural therapy, physiotherapy, and other programs as available.
• Family Connections — Build relationships through networking opportunities, peer-to-peer support, family social events, and our Downright Lucky Team.
• Learning Opportunities — Take part in learning sessions, guest speakers, workshops, and information sessions for families, caregivers, and the broader community.
• Resources & Information — Access our extensive resource collection and lending library with information specific to Down syndrome and navigating life at every age.
• Members-Only Opportunities — Enjoy access to our private members' Facebook group, special events, learning opportunities, and family programs such as Wonder Years.
• Weekly Connection — Stay up to date with EDSS news, programs, events, advocacy initiatives, and developments within the Down syndrome community through our weekly newsletter.

Family Membership - $40

For families who have a person born with Down syndrome, including self-advocates.

Family Membership provides the full range of standard EDSS membership benefits and connects your family with our programs, services, resources, and community.

Family First-Year Membership - Free

Families welcoming a newborn baby with Down syndrome receive their first year of EDSS family membership at no cost.

We want families to know that they are not alone. From those first days and weeks through every stage that follows, EDSS is here to connect you with information, support, and other families who understand.

Community Membership - $40

For individuals and organizations who do not have a family member with Down syndrome but support the purpose, values, and work of EDSS.

Community members help strengthen the network of people and organizations working toward a more inclusive community.

Voting Membership Add-On- $10

A $10 voting membership add-on is available with any eligible membership category.

Voting membership gives you the opportunity to vote at the EDSS Annual General Meeting and have a voice in the governance of our organization.

Your Membership Makes a Difference

Membership isn't simply about receiving benefits. It helps EDSS understand and represent the community we serve.

Maintaining an accurate membership register allows us to stay connected with families, communicate important information, understand the needs of our community, and meet our organizational and insurance requirements.

Whether or not you choose the voting membership add-on, your participation in EDSS matters

Voting Membership

EDSS is committed to ensuring that voting members are intentionally registered and recorded so that we can accurately establish quorum at our Annual General Meeting.

To vote at the AGM, your membership and voting add-on must be paid in full by March 31 of that year.

Voting memberships purchased after March 31 will qualify for voting at the following year's AGM.

Our Annual General Meeting is held each June and provides members with an opportunity to learn about the organization's activities and finances, participate in the governance of EDSS, and vote on matters brought before the membership.

Downright Lucky Team

Peer support from parents who have been through the experience of welcoming a baby with Down syndrome and want to help other families feel supported and connected.

Community & Family Support

Guidance for parents and caregivers navigating disability services, programs, education, community resources, and the many questions that can arise along the way.

Learning & Education

EDSS provides learning opportunities for families, caregivers, schools, daycares, and other professionals to build understanding and develop practical tools for supporting individuals with Down syndrome.

Ready to Join Us?

Whether you're a new family, a longtime member, a self-advocate, or someone who wants to support the work of EDSS, we'd love to have you as part of our community.

Memberships can be registered or renewed at any time during the year.

Register or Renew Your Membership

Once your membership form has been submitted, the EDSS office will review your information and issue an invoice for your membership fees, where applicable.