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Down Syndrome Innovations



Family and Community Events

Community Workouts

Free

with Scott Quaife

Calendar Current session started Dec 13, 2025

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.

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.

Preschool Rhythm & Play at DSI

Free

with Alyssa Jones

Calendar Next available session starts Jan 30, 2026 at 9:30 am
2 additional sessions through Apr 10, 2026

Ages: 3 - 5

Preschool Rhythm & Play 

Dates: Jan 30th, March 27th, 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

New Parent Breakfast

Free

with Alyssa Jones

Calendar Next available session starts Feb 7, 2026 at 9 am
3 additional sessions through Nov 7, 2026

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 Connection: Aging Years (Virtual)

Free

with Katie Craddock

Calendar Next available session starts Feb 9, 2026 at 5:15 pm
10 additional sessions through Dec 14, 2026

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. 

D.A.D.S. Group

Free

with CJ Vallejo

Calendar Next available session starts Feb 12, 2026 at 6 pm

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.

Family and Friends Trivia Night!

$250
Calendar Next session starts Feb 27, 2026

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.

World Down Syndrome Day Celebration (Central Missouri)

Free
Calendar Next available session starts Mar 21, 2026

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!

World Down Syndrome Day Celebration (Kansas City)

Free
Calendar Next available session starts Mar 21, 2026 at 2 pm

World Down Syndrome Day is Saturday, March 21st and we are hosting a party for all of our families in midtown Kansas City! This event posting will be updated in January with more details. Stay tuned to our social media and email announcements.  SAVE-the-DATE for now because you don't want to miss this event!





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