Back by popular demand, Down Syndrome Innovations is hosting our Caregiver Education Conference on Life Transitions! This conference is applicable to all stages of the life journey! 

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. This conference will include a non-traditional, open-house format, allowing for the diverse learning styles of caregivers.

CONFERENCE SCHEDULE COMING SOON!

We are finalizing our line up of speakers, panel, activities, resources and more! RSVP to ensure you receive the schedule when it debuts!

PLEASE NOTE: this Conference is FREE for participants, due to the generous support of our sponsors and donors!

SPECIAL THANKS to our PRESENTING SPONSOR, KU ADRC!

Join Us for our Teen Skills Series: Group and Independent Leisure Skills!

Teens with Down syndrome are invited to join our skill-building series Mondays from 4:30 - 6:00 pm!

Programming will consist of structured activities and semi-structured free time to help self-advocates develop and practice social skills, independent leisure skills, and engaging in activities with friends.

Dates of Service: 12/18, 1/8, 1/22, 1/29

*This service is FREE (donor-funded) thanks to our donors from the Step Up Walk, our Grantors, and our Community Partners!*

RSVP for Our Winter *VIRTUAL* Social Groups for Teens!

Join us for our Virtual Social Groups for teens that take place on Tuesdays from 6:00 - 6:45 pm! Facilitated by staff member, Lauren Spector, these online Social Groups focus on providing a structured environment for participants to socialize, learn, and have fun together!

Sessions take place: 12/19, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23

*This service is FREE (donor-funded) thanks to our donors from the Step Up Walk, our Grantors, and our Community Partners!*

Get Moving on the Weekends:
Join Us for Our Community Workouts!

(Teens & Adults)

Join us for inclusive exercise opportunities at various gyms around the Kansas City metro! Workouts are designed to improve functional strength and stamina. These occur at different locations every month on Saturdays.

There are limited spots available for every self-advocate to receive sufficient support and coaching. Athletes are expected to be able to follow instructions and a structured routine for a safe and meaningful exercise experience for all, and therefore there is a maximum number of participants per class.

Spots will be filled on a first come, first serve basis, and based on commitment to the scheduled times. After submitting an interest form, our Health and Wellness Coordinator will contact you to discuss your options for community workout participation in your local area.

PLEASE NOTE: these events are donor-funded/FREE, funded by our donors from the Step Up Walk, Grantors and Community Partners!

DS-ASD Connection is a virtual gathering of caregivers to discuss resources, strategies, community supports, and challenges related to loved one's current or potential dual-diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Upcoming Date of Service: 1/10

This group is facilitated by Down Syndrome Innovations staff, and we will occasionally invite special guests with expertise in this area.  This is a complimentary caregiver education opportunity, provided in addition to the individualized services we provide directly for individuals with DS-ASD for the purpose of skill-development, improving self-regulation and behavior, and increasing independence.

PLEASE NOTE: this support group is donor-funded/FREE, funded by our donors from the Step Up Walk, Grantors and Community Partners!

At Down Syndrome Innovations, our Team understands that vision affects every area of development across the lifespan. Individuals with Down syndrome are at a higher risk for a range of vision conditions that may affect the development of their visual skills. Lisa will provide education about functional vision and common eye conditions associated with Down Syndrome, as well as strategies to work with the educational and medical systems.

Speaker Bio: Lisa Lind, M.S. Ed., LSCSW, TVI, COMS, is a licensed clinical social worker and teacher of the visually impaired with several decades of experience serving families with children with Down syndrome and visual impairment. She has presented regionally and nationally on the impact of vision with people with the Down syndrome diagnosis and offered expert strategies to maximize their potential across home, school, and community. Lisa has contributed to the mission of Down Syndrome Innovations through training of our staff; advising on new program design; meeting with families and offering resources and supports; and volunteering at our annual fundraisers.

Please Note: Attendees are also welcome to join us prior to the presentation between 6:00 – 6:30 pm to connect with other caregivers, review available resources, and enjoy light refreshments.

PLEASE NOTE: this educational seminar is donor-funded/FREE, funded by our donors from the Step Up Walk, Grantors and Community Partners!

Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk

Whether you registered for the Step Up Walk or not, we want to know what you think!! Is it time to try new things to make the event more family-friendly?

Please take a few minutes (we promise it's a quick survey!) to let us know! We are always trying to be responsive to your input! So, let's make next year's Walk the best one EVER!

But we need you to tell us HOW!

There's still time to make a year-end gift!

Will you join us in changing lives this year?

It has truly been an honor to serve you and your family this year! Thank you for trusting us as your lifespan partner on this journey!

OFFICE CLOSURE: 

In an effort to ensure our Team is well-rested and ready to serve more families than ever before in the New Year, our office will be closed Monday, Dec. 25th through January 1st. Our office will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 2nd.