321 Fit – a fitness event for all ages!

with Scott Quaife

Next session: April 18th, 2026

Free More Info

Hosted by Down Syndrome Innovations, Special Olympics Kansas, and The University of Kansas Medical Center, 321 Fit is a fitness event for all ages that features interactive fitness stations, presentations from self-advocates, a caregiver session, Zumba, healthy snacks, giveaways, and booths from local organizations and businesses serving the Down syndrome community.

This event is designed not only to inspire your self-advocate to be active and healthy, but also allows them to participate in it right away! There is something for all ages, abilities, and interests! We hope to see you there to continue you on your fitness journey with us!

Wonderscope Fun for Elementary-Age Kids and Siblings

with CJ Vallejo

Next session: April 18th, 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!

A Caregiver’s Guide to Supporting Career Development

with Amanda Myers

Next session: April 21st, 2026

Free More Info

Join us for an educational event in the northland of Kansas City on how to support your self-advocate when navigating their employment journey and supporting their career development. Our Director of Employment Services, Amanda Myers, CESP, will share practical tools and strategies to help caregivers guide their loved one from early job preparation to long-term career growth. You'll leave this presentation feeling more prepared and empowered as a partner in your loved one’s employment journey.

Special thanks to Platte County Board of Services for being a funding partner in 2026 and assisting Platte County residents to access vital services and supports through DSI for employment.

Service providers, case managers, and employers, are more than welcome to attend to benefit from this valuable information as well.

Neuru: The Command Center for Your Child’s Care

with CJ Vallejo

Next session: April 30th, 2026

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Neuma is a secure, all-in-one platform designed to help families manage the many moving parts of their loved one's care without the overwhelm. We centralize school plans, medical records, and therapy notes into one easy-to-use system, so everything you need is always in one place. You have the ability to import records directly from hospital systems like Advent, Children’s Mercy, St. Luke’s, University of Kansas Health System, and more.

Instead of juggling emails, binders, portals, and paperwork, families can quickly access, organize, and share critical information with teachers, therapists, doctors, and caregivers. Neuma helps ensure everyone on your child’s care team stays informed, aligned, and focused on what matters most: supporting your child’s growth and success.

Built with neurodiverse families in mind, Neuma reduces stress, saves time, and brings clarity to complex care, so families can spend less time managing logistics and more time being present.

New Parent Breakfast

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: May 2nd, 2026

Free More Info

Dates: Feb 7th, May 2nd, Aug 1st, Nov 7th (Saturdays Only)

Time: 9am-11am

Location: DSI

Description: Join us for one — or all — of our New Parent Breakfasts!

This welcoming event is designed for new parents and extended family members (prenatal to 2½ years old) to connect with others who have a young child with Down syndrome.

Meet parents at different stages of their journey, learn about the services and support provided by Down Syndrome Innovations, and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly environment. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, exchange resources, and explore our campus.

Each breakfast also includes a facilitated discussion to help families connect, share experiences, and build community.

These family connection events are FREE/DONOR-FUNDED thanks to our Step Up Walk donors, grantors and Community Partners! Breakfast and childcare are provided, so please RSVP so we have adequate accommodations!

Caregiver Education: Post Secondary Transitions: Navigating the IEP Process for a Successful Future

with Kathryn Holmes

Next session: May 12th, 2026

Free More Info

This seminar will focus on providing parents and caregivers with a clear understanding of the IEP transition process, from the legal requirements to the best practices for ensuring a smooth and successful transition from school to post-school activities.

With a focus on education, employment, and independent living, the seminar will break down the steps parents can take to actively support their child’s growth and future planning, offering actionable strategies and resources that can make a real difference.

Summer Celebration (Central Missouri)

Next session: June 13th, 2026

Free More Info

We are hosting a Summer Celebration for all of our central Missouri families in Columbia, Missouri! This event posting will be updated soon with more details. We are aiming for one of the first Saturdays of June. Stay tuned to our social media and email announcements.

Central Missouri: Mental Health & Resiliency in the ID/DD Community

with CJ Vallejo

Next session: June 18th, 2026

Free More Info

Trailblazing best practices in mental health services for people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities is a priority within the mission of Down Syndrome Innovations. Join this workshop and learn strategies to ensure your loved one, or the people you serve, are living their best lives. Megan DeBoom, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and Lisa Lind, licensed clinical social worker, will demonstrate strategies for healthy coping and emotional regulation that can be used by members of your family and service providers on your team. You will walk away with visual supports and ideas that you can implement right away to ensure that you, the ones you love, and the ones you serve, are equipped to manage stress and navigate the challenges of everyday life. Instruction is relevant for supporters of individuals with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities of all ages and stages.

Topics covered will include, but not limited to:

• A strengths-based approach to emotional well-being

• Research and best practices for the ID/DD community

• Building protective factors for health and wellness

• Family resiliency and healthy coping

• Co-regulation of emotions

• Skills related to managing conflict and relationships

• Grief, loss, and stressful transitions

• Self-care and wellness

Central Missouri – Teen and Adult Karaoke Night

Next session: July 10th, 2026

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Grab the mic and shine! Join Down Syndrome Innovations for a fun, inclusive karaoke night just for teens and adults. Whether you love to perform or cheer on friends, this social evening is all about confidence, connection, and having a great time together. No experience needed—just bring your voice, your friends, and your favorite songs!

Location: TBD

Homecoming Parade (Central Missouri)

Next session: October 3rd, 2026

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Pending acceptance of our application, we will again be joining the Mizzou Homecoming Parade and would like to invite all of our central Missouri families in Columbia, Missouri!

Mizzou Homecoming 2026 is officially set for Saturday, October 3, 2026, centered around the home football game against the Florida Gators at Faurot Field, marking the university's 115th Homecoming celebration