A gentle structured way to support people with Down syndrome. Real life on the other side.
If someone you love has Down syndrome you already know how much patience time and heart it takes to support daily life. bttr gives families a clear partner for home based and community based support so you do not have to carry everything alone.
What families often want to know
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that happens when a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome twenty one. It can affect learning health and development in different ways but does not change a person’s value or potential.
How it can affect daily life
- Learning new skills can take more time and repetition.
- People may need support with memory planning and routines.
- Some have heart or health conditions that require careful coordination.
- Clear communication and visual supports often help a lot.
What never changes
- Every person with Down syndrome has their own personality interests and dreams.
- Families deserve respect and clear support not judgement.
- With the right team people can build independence at many stages of life.
Support that honors the person and protects the family
We know that caring for someone with Down syndrome is both beautiful and demanding. bttr was created so families do not have to choose between quality support and their own well being.
One referral one organized pathway
You send one referral with basic information and goals. Our team handles intake scheduling and communication so you are not making ten phone calls to start one service.
Support that matches the person
Coaches follow a steady pace that respects how the person learns. Skills are practiced in real settings with repetition encouragement and clear steps.
Respect for the home and culture
Support is designed with the family not around the family. We consider routines language culture safety and what is realistic for your household.
Down syndrome support that builds real life skills
bttr provides home based and community based services funded through Regional Center where vendored and through the Self Determination Program across California.
Independent Living Services
Coaching for adults with Down syndrome who want more independence at home and in the community. Focus on daily living routines housekeeping money skills transportation and self advocacy.
Supported Living Services
For adults who live or plan to live in their own home or apartment with support wrapped around them. Emphasis on health routines medication support personal care safety and community connection.
Tailored Day Services
Community based day program for people who do better with small settings and one to one or small group coaching. Focus on hobbies volunteering pre employment and meaningful daytime activities.
Support for the whole family
- Coordinated Family Support for adults who still live with family members.
- Teaching routines that work for everyone in the home.
- Help using the Self Determination Program to design flexible supports.
- Transition planning for teens moving from school services into adult life.
Down syndrome support across the Bay Area with priority in Alameda and Contra Costa County
These two counties are the heart of bttr services with the highest number of families and adults with Down syndrome currently supported.
Alameda County
bttr serves people with Down syndrome and their families in:
Contra Costa County
bttr also supports families across:
Wider Bay Area
Depending on funding and availability bttr can also serve nearby Bay Area communities.
Additional regions through Self Determination
Through the Self Determination Program families may be able to work with bttr in other parts of California when appropriate and approved by the Regional Center.
What bttr focuses on with people who have Down syndrome
Supports are organized through bttr skill tracks in Life Money Tech Connect Express and Health so goals are clear and progress can be measured in everyday life.
Daily living and routines
- Morning and evening routines that fit the person and the family.
- Cooking simple meals cleaning and caring for personal space.
- Using visual schedules reminders and checklists.
Health and safety
- Support with preparing for medical appointments and understanding instructions.
- Building safe habits at home in the community and online.
- Practicing what to do in emergencies and who to contact.
Community connection and belonging
- Riding the bus or train shopping and using community spaces.
- Participating in faith communities clubs sports or recreation that matter to the person.
- Volunteering or exploring simple work related skills when appropriate.
Communication and self advocacy
- Practicing how to share preferences needs and boundaries.
- Supporting speech devices visuals or other ways the person communicates.
- Helping families and providers listen to what the person wants for their own life.
Down syndrome support should feel loving clear and sustainable
Giovanny Sarabia
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
bttr Living
Down syndrome support questions families ask bttr
Can bttr help if my family member needs a lot of hands on support
In many cases yes. Our team will talk with you and the Regional Center about needs safety and funding to see what is realistic.
Do you only support adults with Down syndrome
No. We can support youth teens and transition age young adults when this is appropriate under Regional Center rules and the Self Determination Program.
Can bttr work with our school or medical team
Yes. With consent we coordinate with IEP teams doctors and therapists so everyone is moving in the same direction.
What if we are new to the Self Determination Program
We can help you understand how Self Determination works and how bttr services may fit into your plan. Families still make final choices and work with their independent facilitator and financial management service.
Ready to explore Down syndrome support with bttr
One clear referral starts a gentler more organized path for your family across Alameda County Contra Costa County and the Bay Area.