Interested in learning more about the NDSS Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference? Read along for some Frequently Asked Questions.
When is the conference?
The pre-conference learning sessions for participants who have purchased the add-on to their general ticket. Our general conference training session will take place the following day. Congressional meetings will be scheduled for attendees throughout the last day of the Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference.
When should I plan to arrive and depart Washington, D.C.?
Please check back on information regarding the 2027 NDSS Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference.
Where is the conference?
The third day of the conference will take place in the House and Senate office buildings on Capitol Hill in downtown Washington, D.C. Please check back for more information on the training portion of the 2027 Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference.
Who will be attending the conference?
Individuals with Down syndrome and their families, caregivers, loved ones, related professionals, and anyone with a passion for advocating for the rights of the Down syndrome community are invited to attend!
Is there a group discount?
Yes! Many local affiliate groups, parent groups, etc. are encouraged to attend the conference together. We offer discounted tickets for groups of 10 or more and strongly encourage participants to reach out to local groups about attending. For customized large group options, please reach out to policy@ndss.org. You do not need to know the names of all 10 people before purchasing. Many groups also choose to book travel together to save on travel costs, and our hotel block has plenty of room to accommodate groups.
Are there any opportunities for financial assistance?
NDSS has a limited number of scholarships to award participants who require financial assistance to attend the conference. These limited scholarships are intended for participants who face significant financial barriers to attending the conference and are unable to secure support or group discounts from their local Down syndrome group. More information on 2027 scholarships to come!
Is NDSS advocating on partisan issues?
No. The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is a nonpartisan organization that works across political parties and at all levels of government to advocate for and support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and their caregivers. We pursue our advocacy and policy priorities by working with legislators and other decision-makers regardless of political affiliation.
Do you need to have any prior advocacy or policy experience to attend?
No! We offer a full day of policy and advocacy trainings to educate advocates on our policy priorities and how to effectively advocate.
Do I need to schedule my own meetings on Capitol Hill?
No! NDSS works with a consultant that will handle all meeting scheduling. Meetings will be scheduled between 8 AM and 6 PM ET on Hill Day. Therefore, we encourage attendees to be available for the entire day and plan departure from Washington, D.C., accordingly. Due to the very busy nature of Congressional schedules, we cannot guarantee that meetings can be scheduled around travel plans or other commitments.
What is the dress code for this event?
Casual to business casual attire is appropriate for training days. The Hill Day is a professional event and business professional attire is required. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as participants will be walking between office buildings. On the evening of the last training day, NDSS will be hosting a dessert reception and dance party. Many participants choose to dress up for this reception.
What happens if I register and then can’t attend?
Please note that tickets to the Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference are nonrefundable. If you are unable to attend, your registration will become a fully tax-deductible donation. You may also transfer it to another attendee. The transfer of hotel rooms will be made at the discretion of the hotel.