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DS-ASD Caregiver Connection Group (Virtual)

with Megan DeBoom

Next session: February 12th, 2026

Free More Info

Caregiver Connection: DS – ASD is a virtual gathering of caregivers to discuss resources, strategies, community supports, and challenges related to a child or adult’s current or potential dual-diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

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.

We are providing this group virtually to ensure we are being inclusive of families throughout the region and those who are not able to access transportation, as we understand that facing a dual-diagnosis can already feel isolating in and of itself.  We understand this is a subgroup of the entire population we serve, with unique challenges and experiences, and we hear how important it is for you all to feel connected. We hope that meeting one another in this group will organically open up opportunities for you all to spend time together face to face as you develop meaningful connections with one another.

All registered participants will receive a Zoom link from the instructor. 

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Virtual Social Group for Adults

with Lauren Holmes

Next session: February 12th, 2026

Free More Info

These Virtual Social Groups for Adults provide a structured, creative, and dynamic environment for participants to socialize, learn, and have fun together, without the hassle of leaving the house or arranging transportation. Lauren Holmes, the facilitator of the group, who is our Virtual Life Skills Specialist, ensures every individual is included in meaningful ways during the group activities. This is also an awesome opportunity to build meaningful relationships with new friends who are both local and from other states in our country.

All registered participants will receive a Zoom link from the instructor. 

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D.A.D.S. Group

with CJ Vallejo

Next session: February 12th, 2026

Free More Info

The D.A.D.S. Group is excited to welcome Rex Hudler of the Kansas City Royals for a special evening of connection and conversation on February 12th. Rex will share his personal journey and experiences raising a young man with Down syndrome during a one-hour talk designed to encourage, inspire, and support fellow dads. The gathering will take place from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Down Syndrome Innovations, located at 5916 Dearborn Street in Mission, KS. This event offers a meaningful opportunity for fathers to come together, hear a powerful story, and build community in a supportive setting.

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Jackson County Social Group- Teens & Young Adults

with Tyler Goevert

Next session: February 17th, 2026

Free More Info

This group will consist of community-based activities in the Lee's Summit area to help self-advocates and their families in eastern Jackson County build relationships with friends and become more involved in their community. Register to receive monthly communication regarding that month's activity on each of the dates below, as our community activities are collaborative and planned with support with the parents of several self-advocates. 

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Music, Dance, and Sensory Play at Rough & Bumble

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: February 20th, 2026

Music, Dance, and Sensory Play @ Rough & Bumble

Address: 413 Delaware St, Leavenworth, KS 66048

Friday, February 20th from 9:30–10:45 AM

A lively blend of music, movement, and sensory exploration for ages 0–5

($5 per child, and siblings are welcome)

This is a combo class of Music & Motion and our Rhythm & Play coming together. This class invites young children to move, groove, and explore in a fun, developmentally supportive environment. We will have a private room to start our class for our introductions, music, and rhythm. 

Midway through class, children transition into sensory play breakout and explore the equipment at the play cafe. 

Designed for all abilities, this class encourages social connection, creativity, and joyful movement—helping preschoolers build important skills while having a blast.

If you have any questions please email alyssa@kcdsi.org

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At Down Syndrome Innovations (DSI), we value independence, self-determination, and high expectations for the people we serve, regardless of their age. We support parents and caregivers with strategies to facilitate independence, foster self-determination, set high expectations, and problem-solve through setbacks and barriers. We recognize that independence looks different for every person with a developmental disability, varying across ages, stages, and environments.

Join Sarah Mai, Executive Director and Occupational Therapist, in Columbia, Missouri, as she guides you through strategies to build skills, adapt tasks and environments, and create opportunities to maximize your loved one's independence. We will discuss skills within DSI’s Lifespan Services Framework for building independence at home and in the community. Together, we can identify barriers to independence and share effective ideas and tools

The caregiver education event will take place between 10:00-11:30am and participants will have the opportunity for a light lunch and caregiver connection immediately following.

DSI will do our best to find a sufficient number of trusted volunteers for childcare for parents who have traveled a long distance with their family or have no other options. If possible, we encourage utilizing your own childcare. Please email sarah@kcdsi.org if you require childcare to attend as a parent.

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Wonderscope Fun for Elementary-Age Kids and Siblings

with CJ Vallejo

Next session: February 21st, 2026

Free More Info

Join us for a fun-filled morning of play, exploration, and connection at Wonderscope! We encourage families to meet up with one another and make new friends. This social time is for kiddos with Down syndrome who are in elementary school, and their siblings, as we want to offer a welcoming and inclusive space in the community for your children to build friendships, develop social skills, and enjoy hands-on learning experiences throughout the museum. 

DSI will cover the cost of entry for all children with Down syndrome and one additional family member (parent and sibling).  Advanced registration is required. 

DSI staff will attend to engage in play with the kids and be a resource to families, however, parent supervision is required for all kids attending. 

We hope to see you there for learning, laughter, and community!

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Teen Social Group

with Tyler Goevert

Next session: February 23rd, 2026

Free More Info

This group will consist of structured activities and semi-structured free time to help self-advocates age 12-18 build relationships with friends, spend time in their community, and practice a variety of skills.

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Family and Friends Trivia Night!

Next session: February 27th, 2026

$250 More Info

SAVE-the-DATE and mark your calendars for Friday evening, February 27, 2026, or register your trivia team today.

Click here to REGISTER or REVIEW MORE DETAILS: 2026 Family and Friends Trivia Night Event Information and Registration

 Trivia team tables begin at $250.00. See event page for more details. 

Gather your team, test your knowledge, and enjoy a night filled with laughter, prizes, and community spirit—all while supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families. 

Additional information:

Food and adult beverages will be served. Adults 21+ only please.Guests will enjoy multiple rounds of general-knowledge trivia, fun table games, silent auction items, and community connection. Trivia will start at 6:45pm 

All funds raised support the innovative programs that empower people with Down syndrome across the lifespan.

Online registration unavailable
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Central Missouri – Family Social Hours (Monthly!)

Next session: February 27th, 2026

Free More Info

Join us for our 2026 Family Social Gatherings in Central Missouri! This is an opportunity for families to meet and exchange stories, resources, and fellowship!

Dinner and childcare will be provided for families. Please be sure to RSVP in advance!