Who We Are
Kern Down Syndrome Network (KDSN) was founded with one clear purpose: to create a supportive, inclusive, and empowering community for individuals with Down syndrome and their families across Kern County.
Born from the belief that no family should ever feel alone, KDSN is a place where connection, advocacy, celebration, and friendship thrive. What started as a small group of eight families has now grown into a thriving network of over 100 families — all walking this journey together.
Our Mission
Our mission is to ensure that every individual with Down syndrome has the opportunities, support, and recognition they deserve.
Through education, outreach, and community-driven programs, we work to break down barriers, challenge outdated perceptions, and create a world where individuals with Down syndrome are valued, included, and empowered in all aspects of life.
Our Vision
A community where individuals with Down syndrome are celebrated for their abilities, embraced for their unique contributions, and supported to live full, meaningful lives.
Our Story
The story begins ten years ago, when representatives from Salon Salon approached Amber Ranger, who had just welcomed her daughter, Emmerson, into the world. They wanted to do something meaningful not just for her, but for the entire Down syndrome community. Their idea was simple yet powerful: an event where local salons would create teams, design storybook-inspired looks, and bring their vision to life with models, both individuals with Down syndrome and their typically developing peers. That first event, originally called HeArts & Hair, was a beautiful celebration of creativity, inclusion, and empowerment. But it also led to something even bigger. When Amber tried to find a Down syndrome-specific organization to donate the proceeds to, she realized there wasn’t one. Determined to change that, she reached out to a small Facebook group for parents of children with Down syndrome, where she met three other moms who shared the same vision, creating a place for families to find support, resources, and connection. And so, Kern Down Syndrome Network (KDSN) was born. What began as a small group of eight families has now grown to over 100 families across Kern County.
With a few determined parents and a shared dream, they built Kern Down Syndrome Network — a community led by families, for families. Amber and Lettie, the last two original founders, have watched their daughters grow alongside this journey—Emmerson is now 11 years old, and Brooklyn, is 13. What began as a simple idea has evolved into a movement, thanks to the unwavering support of those who believe in the power of inclusion. Today, KDSN continues to grow, fueled by love, resilience, and a commitment to lifting every voice in the Down syndrome community.
The Community we serve
We proudly serve families throughout Kern County, including Bakersfield and surrounding communities. From diagnosis to adulthood, we walk alongside families every step of the way, offering support, connection, and celebration.
Meet our founders
A vision that grew, a mission that endures
In 2015, five moms came together to create the community they wished existed—a place of connection, advocacy, and hope for families navigating life with Down syndrome.
Today, original founders Amber Ranger and Lettie Gurrola continue to lead that vision forward, proudly serving over 100 families across Kern County and building a future rooted in inclusion
Lettie Gurrola
Founder / Co Chair
Lettie Gurrola is the proud mother of Brooklyn, age 13, and a co-founder of Kern Down Syndrome Network. Inspired by her own journey and the need for stronger community support, Lettie has dedicated herself to connecting families, promoting inclusion, and ensuring that individuals with Down syndrome are valued and recognized for their incredible potential.
Amber Ranger
Founder / Co Chair
Amber Ranger is the proud mother of Emmerson, age 11, and a passionate advocate for individuals with Down syndrome. As a co-founder of Kern Down Syndrome Network, Amber helped build a supportive, inclusive community where families can find connection, resources, and hope. She continues to lead with heart, working to create opportunities for every individual to be celebrated and empowered.
Creating Spaces for Friendship and Growth
Meet our social group hosts
Our social group hosts are the heart of our community programs. Through their leadership, they create welcoming spaces where individuals and families can connect, grow, and build lifelong friendships. Each host brings passion, dedication, and a personal commitment to making every gathering meaningful.
Frances & Andrew Bransby
Adult Allies Hosts
As longtime Bakersfield residents and parents of four adult children—including their daughter Naomi, who has Down syndrome—they have experienced firsthand the challenges adults with disabilities face in forming and maintaining relationships. Their goal is to create a welcoming space where friendships can thrive and everyone feels valued.
Teen Tribe
Teen Tribe Host
Dominique Rodriguez
0-5 Parent & Me Host
Dom hosts our Ages 0-5 Parent and Me group, as well as our new moderator for the Kern Down Syndrome Network private Facebook parent group!
Dom brings with her a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm, and we’re thrilled to have her on board to help guide and support our families.