About DSAH

The Down Syndrome Association of Hamilton (DSAH) has operated for over 40 years. Many of those years were run exclusively by volunteers. 

The organization was founded in 1982 by a group of parents and started as a knowledge sharing and support group. Today, DSAH runs programs and events supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families. 

Governed by a Volunteer Board of Directors, DSAH contracts an Operations Director, and with volunteers, fulfills the organization’s mission.  

Our Mission

Support people and families impacted by Down syndrome throughout their lives.

Assist our members in accessing information, services, and supports that enhance health, development, and education of people with Down syndrome.

Advocate for excellent, coordinated, and accessible medical, educational, and recreational services and meaningful paid employment for all people with Down syndrome.

Create a social support network for people with Down syndrome and their families.

Promote the abilities of people with Down syndrome in our community.

Bring understanding to the challenges people with Down syndrome may face and how they can be supported to reach their full potential.

Engage in local, provincial, and national initiatives that challenge stereotypes and further the health, well-being, education, and economic contribution of people with Down syndrome.

DSAH Board of Directors

The Down Syndrome Association of Hamilton is a registered charity governed by a volunteer Board of Directors.

Monthly Board Meetings are scheduled at 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month. Nominations and elections take place at the Annual General Meeting.

The Down Syndrome Association of Hamilton holds active seats on


2024-25 Annual report
by-laws & Constitution

Join the Board of Directors!

DSAH is governed by a Board of Directors. 

Directors are advocates, parents, community members and professionals. 

The next Board of Director election is May 2026 for positions during June 2026-June 2028.

A role on the Board of Directors is a two-year volunteer commitment. Directors meet monthly (alternating between virtual and in person) and assist with the planning and execution of the Hamilton Walk for Down Syndrome in September and other events.

  • Applicants should be available for the monthly Board meeting on the first Thursday of every month. 
  • Certain roles may require different skills. See the By-Laws and constitution above for details about the Board positions. 

2024-25 Board of Directors

Elected June 6, 2024

Next Election: May 2026 

Chair

Heather Gain

Vice-Chair

Fred Stremble

Treasurer

Paul Arnold

Director of Membership

Rebecca Hynes

Director of Programming

Stefanie Allaire

Advocate

Laura Stremble

Advocate

David Colantino

SEAC – HWCDSB

Veronica Hannon

(Alternate: Monica Fox)

SEAC – HWDSB

Judy Colantino

(Alternate: TBD)

Social Convenor

David van de Pol

Secretary

Natalie May – Interim

DSAO Rep

Heather Gain

Director of Fundraising

Vacant

Sub Committees

Subcommittees are created and led by Board Members and are made up of association members, community volunteers and professionals. This is hands on work as these Commitees take ideas into action! 

Social Commitee

Led by the Social Convenor, the Social Committee plans and runs social events including World DS Day (3/21), Summer Picnic, Halloween, Christmas and social nights.

The Walk Committee

Led by the Fundraising Director and Event Coordinator, “The Walk” Committee is responsible for planning and executing DSAH’s major community and fundraising event. Planning is year round with peak times in the summer and September.

Programming Sub Committees

Led by the Director of Programming, Preschool, School Age, Teen and Adult commitees plan and initiate programming for their respective age group. Some supervision of programs may be required.

Advocacy and Education Committee

This committee executes DSAH’s mission of advocating for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.

Advocating for prenatal care, education and meaningful employment are the committee’s main focus.

Experts in their fields, this committee is made up of Board Members.


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