May News for You!

Down Syndrome Innovations (formerly the Down Syndrome Guild) offers adult services and supports that focus on maximizing independence; integrating into the community; preparing for employment; increasing health and wellness; and learning essential social skills.

This monthly newsletter is created just for you and your family!

Have you “connected” with us yet? We encourage you to fill out our contact form TODAY!

We are launching a new family portal later this year, so be sure to complete our Get Connected form!

We want you to stay up-to-date about important information to help loved one with Down syndrome succeed throughout their adult years!

Down Syndrome Innovations is thrilled to announce that Amanda Myers recently joined our ACE (Adult Continuing Education) Program as Adult Services Specialist!

Amanda has 7 years of experience supporting individuals with special needs. She began her career working with children at a community mental health center where she was awarded Employee of the Year. Following this, she relocated to Vancouver, Canada where she worked as an Employment Specialist for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is also a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Amanda’s experience will offer our adult participants a specialized focus on gaining vocational skills that will help them obtain their individual employment goals.

Amanda earned her bachelor of science in Family Studies with an emphasis in Counseling from Manhattan Christian College in Manhattan, KS.

Outside of work, Amanda and her husband, Ben, like to travel and try new restaurants and coffee shops. They also enjoy taking their dog on walks and to the park.

Please join us in welcoming Amanda!

Virtual Gatherings
 (Small Groups)

Every Tuesday, we host Zoom sessions for adults with Down syndrome (18+) from 6:15 - 7:15 pm or 7:30 - 8:30 pm.

Each meeting is an hour long and serves as a safe space where adults can learn, chat and ask questions.

Our goal is to provide an opportunity for our adults to connect and socialize virtually as an outlet during these challenging times of social distancing. Staff moderates each meeting and ensures everyone has a chance to share their experiences and be heard.

We have a variety of topics to engage participants. To sign up, email Jessica! 

NOTE: due to the generous support of our donors, these events are complimentary/free for our families!

Adult Continuing Education
ACE Program
(Daily In-Person Service)  

 Our Adult Continuing Education (ACE) program aims to maximize independence for adults with Down syndrome and promote productive participation within their community.

ACE provides educational opportunities for adults based around DSG’s six Pillars of Programming: Daily Living; Communication and Social Skills; Community Engagement; Health, Wellness, and Safety; Self-Advocacy; and Vocational Development. 

Be sure to email us or call us at (913) 222-5101 with any questions you may have!

NOTE: this service is private-pay, fee-for-service*, and is significantly subsidized through philanthropic support. *If finances are prohibitive, inquire about our county grant partnerships or funding support!

On-Demand Consulting Now Available!

Would you like to talk to a licensed therapist to learn more strategies for how to support your loved one with Down syndrome? Would you like more ideas for how to help them do more on their own, take more responsibility in their life, and be more productive?

On-Demand Consulting is for caregivers who need targeted support, but may not have the need for on-going sessions.

Using Zoom, a member of the therapy team will provide education, resources, or strategies individualized to your family’s needs.

Our Pathways Therapy team recommends 3 sessions. If additional support is deemed necessary, we will help determine next steps including but not limited to internal referrals or community referrals.

It's as easy as enrolling today! We look forward to supporting your family!