Everything you need to know!
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August News for You!
Down Syndrome Innovations offers teen services and supports that focus on maximizing independence; integrating into the community; preparing for employment; increasing health and wellness; and learning essential social skills.
Our services and supports are rooted in our organization's Six Pillars:
- Daily Living
- Community Engagement
- Communication and Social Skills
- Health, Wellness and Safety
- Self-Advocacy
- Vocational Development
ARE YOU CONNECTED WITH US?
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!
Parents of Teens: We Really Want Your Feedback!
Parents, Caregivers, and Self-Advocates: we truly hope you will take the time to share your feedback with us on our 2022 Survey!
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM MOM & DAD: we encourage ALL caregivers in the household to take this survey, e.g. Mom and Dad of the self-advocate, so we may understand the entire family's experience and goals!
IMPORTANCE OF THIS SURVEY: we understand the survey is little lengthy (should take approximately 20 minutes), but it's critical for us to measure against what you told us in 2019, so we can see where we've made progress and where we still need to grow! This is how we can shape the future, together!
DEADLINE: The survey will be open until 11:55 pm on Sunday, July 31st!
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us!
RSVP for Fall
Teen Skills Series: Cooking & Kitchen Skills!
Teens with Down syndrome are invited to join our fall skill-building series that takes place Mondays, beginning August 29th!
There are two time options to choose from:
- Option 1: 5 - 6 pm
- Option 2: 6:15 - 7:15 pm
Each week, teens will attend a one-hour session with their peers to engage in a variety of activities related to cooking as well as to learn and review different topics related to kitchen skills.
Sessions take place: 8/29, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24.
These groups are hosted on-site at our office: 5916 Dearborn Street in Mission, KS.
Our teen programming focuses on our six pillars:
- Daily Living
- Community Engagement
- Communication and Social Skills
- Health Wellness and Safety
- Self-Advocacy
- Vocational Development
Please note: due to the generous support of our donors and grantors, these events are complimentary/free for our participants.
Join Us for Our Fall,
VIRTUAL Social Groups!
Join us on Tuesdays from 5:15 - 6 pm, beginning September 6th for our Virtual Social Groups!
We understand that there can be barriers to attending in-person services, which is why we also offer virtual options for teens with Down syndrome!
These groups focus on providing a structured environment for participants to socialize, learn, and have fun together!
Sessions will feature the following topics:
- Sept. 6: Exploring emotions
- Sept. 13: Talent show
- Sept. 20: Being a good friend
- Sept. 27: Hygiene
- Oct. 4: Karaoke night
- Oct. 11: Boosting self confidence
- Oct. 18: Workout/healthy snacks
- Oct. 25: Fall craft night
Sessions take place: 9/6, 9/13, 9/20, 9/27, 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25.
Please note: due to the generous support of our donors and grantors, these events are complimentary/free for our participants.
Let's Have Some Fun: Teen Halloween Party!
(In Person)
Monday, October 31st
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Join us for a fun-filled Halloween Party for teens! To wrap up our fall teen programming, we will be hosting the party on-site at the Down Syndrome Innovations office! Costumes are welcome (but not required) and we will have snacks and games set up throughout the office!
Parents are welcome to stay with their teen or drop them off like usual. Your teen is welcome to attend for the entire duration of the party or to drop by for part of the scheduled time.
Please be sure to RSVP so we have adequate accommodations!
Please note: due to the generous support of our donors and grantors, these events are complimentary/free for our participants.
Always Here for Your Family!
Is transitioning to a new school or the new school year turning out to be a challenge? Need visual supports?
Let us know by reaching out to our Pathways Therapy Team for a Caregiver Consultation! We are here for your family, every step of the way!
Don't forget to RSVP for this complimentary / free Caregiver Seminar on Sept. 14th!
Targeted for families (with loved ones up to 18 years of age), this seminar will provide an overview of topics that will help position your loved one for living a fulfilling adult life.
*This Caregiver Seminar is Virtual to provide access to families throughout Kansas and Missouri. A ZOOM link will be provided to those who register. Please indicate attendance in this form to the virtual seminar designated for your state of residence.*
ABOUT THE SEMINAR: At Down Syndrome Innovations, our Team understands that in order to be a lifespan provider for your family it is essential that we support you in the process of planning ahead for your loved one with Down syndrome. The task list for future planning can feel daunting but we can help you prioritize and point you in the right direction. We have resources on hand related to community organizations with specific supports you might need. We want to serve as your “home base” to help you navigate the challenges at each age range throughout this journey.
Join us in the Northland on Thursday, September 15th for “Functional Fitness: How Exercise Plays a Critical Role in Supporting Common Conditions that Affect Development and Independence” presented by Scott Quaife, NSCA-CPT, our Health & Wellness Coordinator.
Scott is a certified personal trainer (NSCA-CPT), who specializes in Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. He recently presented at the 2022 National Down Syndrome Congress Annual Convention in New Orleans. This convention was attended by thousands of people, and many experts in Down Syndrome, across the globe.
These events are complimentary/free due to the generous support
of our donors and grantors.
There's Still Time to RSVP for Family Day at Red Barn Farm!
Saturday, September 10th
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Weston Red Barn Farm
16300 Wilkerson Rd, Weston, MO 64098
All ages are welcome as we gather this fall at Red Barn Farm! Join us for hay rides, corn maze, line dancing and visiting the farm animals. This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and make new friends!
Please be sure to register for this event, so we may have appropriate accommodations! RSVP HERE >>
Due to the generous support of our donors/grantors, this event is complimentary/free for our families!
Connect and Get Moving at our
Fall Family Fitness Tour on Oct. 1st!
Join us on Saturday, October 1st for our Family Fitness Tour, a special event to connect families all over the KC area with fitness, fun and healthy snacks!
Led by Scott Quaife, NSCA-CPT, our Health & Wellness Coordinator, families are encouraged to drop by at the closest stop on the tour. Bring a blanket, your sneakers, water and get ready to enjoy a healthy outing with other families! Fresh fruit, water & milk and protein balls will be provided at each event!
Times & Locations:
- 10:45 – 11:45 am: Central Park Shelter, 825 NE 70th Terrace, Gladstone, MO 64118
- 12:30 – 1:30 pm: Lowenstein Park, 1901 NW Lowenstein Dr, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 (Shelter #2)
- 2:00 – 3:00 pm: Gezer Park, 13251 Mission Rd, Leawood, KS 66209 (West Shelter)
- 3:30 – 4:30 pm: St. Margaret’s Park, 230 S 7th St, Kansas City, KS 66101
Gather Your "Dream Team" of Supporters for an Epic Step Up Walk!
2022 Step Up for Down Syndrome
Gather your family, friends, and supporters to recognize and celebrate the “Dream Team” of people, who are walking alongside your family on this journey!
A support team, even beyond family, is so critical for your loved one’s success at all stages of life. Here is your chance to create a tradition that brings your “Dream Team” together once a year to lift up your loved one and those who have helped along the way!
During Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October, we will host two Step Up Walks!
KC Step Up Walk: Sat, Oct. 22nd
Arrowhead Stadium, KC
Central Mo Step Up Walk: Sat, Oct. 8th
Stankowski Field: Mizzou, Columbia, MO
This is a tradition with memories that will last a lifetime!
