Let's make 2023 our best year yet!
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December
News for You!
Down Syndrome Innovations offers services and supports at every age and stage to help your loved one thrive.
Our services and supports are rooted in our organization's Lifespan Framework addressing the skills of:
- Daily Living
- Community Engagement
- Communication and Social Skills
- Health, Wellness and Safety
- Self-Advocacy
- Vocational Development
Join us for our new, Caregiver Conference that is applicable to all stages of life! This conference includes a non-traditional, open-house format that allows for the diverse learning styles of caregivers...and busy schedules!
As supporters, we know that skill-development for the person with Down syndrome and preparation on the part of the caregivers are essential in supporting the lifespan journey, especially those challenging transitions where environments, expectations, and routines change.
Strategies and resources will be provided to help with various topics related to life transitions including but not limited to:
- transitioning to kindergarten
- transitions within the school years
- navigating puberty
- preparing ahead for employment
- long-term planning to access benefits
We encourage early registration, so we may gauge the interests of our families! We will send a final schedule of all offerings to registered attendees in mid-January.
Planning for 2023: Register NOW for Winter Services!
It's easier than ever to check and see what services, supports and events we have available for your stage of the journey! Just visit our Services & Events landing page and sort by your loved one's age level!
We have something for everyone, so be sure to check out what we have in store for your family this winter! Don't delay, register today!
Supporting the Educational Journey: Contact Us for a School-Age Support Consultation!
Do you have concerns about behaviors or self-regulation in the home? Do you need help interpreting your child’s IEP or need strategies to better collaborate with your school team? Need advice on how to support your child through developmental stages like puberty or transitioning to high school?
Our School-Age Education Coordinator, Tyler Goevert, provides complimentary consultations, with both in person and virtual appointments!
Kick Start Your Family's Health in the New Year: Schedule a Health & Wellness Consultation!
Would you like to talk to a health and wellness professional who understands Down syndrome, so that you may develop proactive strategies for incorporating more activity into your loved one’s life?
Then it's time to visit with Scott Quaife, NCSA-CPT, our Health & Wellness Coordinator!
We now offer a variety of Health and Wellness services to promote the long-term success of people with Down syndrome.
Health and Wellness are critical for success in all aspects of life, so don't delay — sign up for a Complimentary Consultation today!
Please fill out an Interest Form and Scott will contact you for scheduling!
Planning for Your Loved One's Future: Schedule a Long-Term Planning Consultation!
We are committed to preparing your loved one with Down syndrome for a meaningful, productive, and authentic adult life! This requires future planning for parents and caregivers—and we are here to guide you every step of the journey!
Long-Term Planning Consultations offer individualized support to parents/caregivers to better prepare for the transition towards adulthood.
Our Lifespan Service Team will help you prioritize and plan according to your loved one’s age and your family’s specific situation.
Are you in contact with your CDDO (Community Developmental Disabilities Organization)?
A CDDO serves as the single point of entry for anyone seeking ID/DD services in their county. They determine eligibility for public funding and services, coordinate access to public services and supports, and maintain a network of affiliated providers in your area.
If you are not sure how to access your local resources, we recommend finding your CDDO searching your state's directory below and then call the number provided. Let them know you have a loved one with Down syndrome and request an intake appointment.
You may not need their services and supports now, but you likely will in the future. We encourage you to reach out now to ensure your family is assigned a case coordinator or put on a waiting list for consideration!
Celebrating CJ Turner!
By Kathryn Holmes, Adult Education Specialist
I first met CJ when he was in elementary school. He was a very driven student with lots of dreams for his future. CJ wasn’t just a dreamer—he has worked very hard throughout his life and has many outstanding accomplishments.
I was thrilled to reunite with CJ when I joined Down Syndrome Innovations! He donates his time as our organization's event photographer for events, such as our Golf Tournament and Step Up Walk fundraisers, Annual Birthday Party event, Holiday Parties and more!
Here are some cool facts about CJ:
- He's worked (part time) for 17 years at Cabela’s in Kansas City, KS
- He is newly employed as a (part time) event-day associate for the Kansas City Chiefs
- CJ is a valued volunteer at the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame in Bonner Springs, KS
- He's a 4-H Award winning ceramic artist
- CJ is a foodie who loves to try new restaurants
- He's also a world traveler, who recently returned from the Buddy Cruise
CJ is such a kind, caring and thoughtful friend to me and so many other people! I feel lucky to have known him for so many years!
CJ visiting Kathryn on her first day at Down Syndrome Innovations!
CJ serving as our official photographer, taking snapshots of Golf Teams and donors at the Step Up for Down Syndrome Golf Tournament!
Follow our social media channels!
Do we have your updated contact information? What about your loved one's birthdate? Not sure?
Fill out a GET CONNECTED FORM and we will make sure we have everything we need to get your loved one plugged into services/supports!
Check our WEBSITE for the latest services & supports for your stage of the journey!
It has been an honor to serve you and your family this year! We are beyond grateful for each and every one of you!
May this holiday season be filled with joy and unique memories—and your New Year filled with endless smiles!
~Your Team at Down Syndrome Innovations
