These inclusive community workouts take place at various gyms across the Kansas City metro and are designed to improve functional strength, endurance, and overall fitness. Sessions take place on Saturdays at a consistent rotation of gyms, with each location hosting the same weekend every month—making it easy to plan and stay active in your local community. These gyms are located in Overland Park, South KC, Mission, and Lee's Summit. 

After registering, our Fitness and Nutrition Coordinator will contact you to discuss the best options for community workout participation in your area.

Spots are limited to ensure each self-advocate receives sufficient support and coaching. Participants are expected to follow instructions and a structured routine to ensure a safe and meaningful experience for all. Maximum class sizes are enforced to maintain quality and safety.

Enrollment is handled on a first-come, first-served basis and based on commitment to the scheduled times. When classes are full, a waiting list will be created for future opportunities.

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 March 19th. 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.

Join us at the ARC (1701 W. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203) on Saturday, March 21, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. as we come together to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day!

We’ll enjoy a fun and inclusive pool party, with pizza provided for everyone. Families and friends are welcome to bring desserts to share. To help keep everyone safe and included, please label all ingredients, as some individuals have food allergies or dietary needs.

We look forward to celebrating our community, connections, and belonging together!

Come celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on Saturday, March 21st!

Special thanks to our Mission Sponsor, Busey Bank, and our Community Sponsor, Morgan Stanley. Thank you for your generous support of this event.

We are hosting a party from 3:30-5:30 at Browne's Irish Market located at 3300 Pennsylvania Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111. 

We will provide activities for all ages, including karaoke, an obstacle course, basketball, a temporary tattoo station, a soft play area for little ones,a collaborative ceramics project, and more.

Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Additional food and adult beverages will be available from Browne’s for purchase. 

This event will be outside, so please dress warmly. We are excited to celebrate with you!

Preschool Rhythm & Play 

Dates: Jan 30th, March 27th, April 4th, April 10th

Time:9:30–10:45 AM

A lively blend of music, movement, and sensory exploration for ages 3–5 

Preschool Rhythm & Play invites young children to move, groove, and explore, alongside their parents, in a fun, developmentally supportive environment. Each session begins with upbeat music and simple dance movements that build coordination, balance, and body awareness. Children will sing, stretch, and move their bodies creatively as they follow along with guided rhythm activities. 

Midway through class, children transition into sensory play breakout sessions led by an Occupational Therapist and OT Students. These hands-on experiences allow kids to explore textures, materials, and tools that support fine motor development, sensory regulation, and confidence through play. 

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

Caregiver Connection: Aging Years offers an opportunity for caregivers to discuss resources, strategies, community supports, and challenges related to caring for an aging loved one with Down syndrome.

We understand this is a growing group of 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. 

Hosted by Down Syndrome Innovations, Special Olympics Kansas, and The University of Kansas Medical Center, the 4th annual 321 Fit is back! 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!

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!