History of FEDS
In the Fall of 1989 a group of parents gathered, through word of mouth, at the Macomb Intermediate School District building at 44001 Garfield in Clinton Township. The purpose of this gathering was to discuss the need to network with other parents with the same concerns: Our children with Down syndrome. It became quite evident after just a few months that there was a need within the families to have regular meetings, as well as speakers who could help us with some of our health and educational questions.
After a short amount of time and discussion, Pattie Anderson was elected the president of the group and additional parents volunteer red for the other essential positions needed.
The ball began to roll and before long we sought out a lawyer to help with by-laws, obtaining nonprofit status, and assurance that we could continue to use the MISD for monthly meetings (free of charge) because of course, we had no money.
It was decided that to become a member, there would be dues charge to cover the cost of mailing the newsletters that was in the works. The decision was to charge $10 a month for the membership fee.
That rate stayed the same for about 10 years when it was raised to cover the increasing costs to maintain the group. During those beginning years we were often contacted by groups, bowling leagues and organizations with the need to bestow money on our group. We graciously accepted the donations and continue to do that even today.