Providing the most positive and exceptional learning experiences.
From Early Childhood and Elementary Learning Program classes to College Life, The Maren Fund supports the education of children and young adults with disabilities. Take a look at our always-improving curriculum.
The Maren Fund mission.
We educate and partner with individuals who have Down syndrome and their families to believe in their ability to learn and realize their academic potential.
Our story.
The Maren Fund, Inc. sprang from a personal passion. When my own daughter, Annie, was turning 5 years old I realized that she would need support outside of school to learn how to read and understand math. The search for help began and, fortunately, through my search and with the support of the Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis, a friendship developed with Dana Halle and the Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County.
Based on solid research.
Dana created The Learning Program of Orange County based on years of solid research - it is an evidence-based program created to educate parents on "how" their child with Down syndrome learns. The Learning Program of Orange County mentored us with materials and information and we began providing Learning Program classes here in St. Louis in 2007 - 13+ years ago!
Over 16 years and counting.
We started with a pilot program of 12 children/families, experienced significant growth and elected to create a 501(c)3 in 2011 to allow us to expand the scope of our programs and services. Currently we support over 150+ children/families with 200+ enrollees in our multiple programs/services and we continue to expand each year. It's an exciting time and I hope that you will join us as we continue this great adventure.
Want to see more?
Check out our Maren Fund video.
