To learn more about Jack’s Basket, check out their latest video for WDSD and another video that highlights how their program works:
Jack’s Basket is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with a mission to celebrate babies born with Down syndrome. They strive to ensure that every new and expectant parent is provided resources and avenues of support within the community, and we’re so grateful that they also share or “Welcoming a Newborn with Down Syndrome” book from Down Syndrome Pregnancy. They aim to help medical providers discuss the diagnosis in an unbiased way in hopes that the birth of a child with Down syndrome is celebrated like any other.
Their work begins before birth through a baby’s 1st birthday. Since March 2014, Jack’s Basket has celebrated over 1,350 babies in 47 states, and 11 countries. Baskets can be requested at www.jacksbasket.org
Jack’s Basket focuses on three primary activities:
- Engaging, educating, and empowering healthcare providers to communicate and discuss Down syndrome accurately without bias.
- Inspiring and connecting new parents with other families and resources within the community.
- Building awareness changing the narrative of Down syndrome in society.
Basket Delivery. They engage with families through the timely delivery of a celebratory basket after the birth of children with Down syndrome. They leverage their experience as families and allies in the community to determine the most valuable resources to include in baskets to encourage the celebration of the lives of these children.
Healthcare Community. They establish and maintain a community of healthcare providers and organizations in Minnesota that allows us to efficiently celebrate babies born with Down syndrome in the state. They actively expand this healthcare network nationally and internationally.
Parent Community. They equip a dedicated group of parent volunteers to compile and deliver baskets. They embrace each basket delivery as an opportunity to engage additional volunteers and grow our community.
Healthcare Knowledge. As thought leaders in the healthcare community, they aim to help providers across the country on understanding the role they play in shaping family’s stories surrounding Down syndrome.
