2012 Step Up For Down Syndrome Walk set for October 27th!

The date has been announced, Saturday, October 27th.  Start spreading the news and tell family and friends to save the date for a wonderful day where we Celebrate life with Down syndrome. Let's make Kansas City the nation's largest grossing walk, again! We are so grateful that each year, family, friends and other interested community members come together and support this cause.  Your fundraising efforts allow DSG to foster the several programs and services we provide and dream big to build more programs for the future of your loved one with Down syndrome. Funds raised will stay here in Kansas City for the 1100+ families, 22 hospitals and 45 school districts DSG supports. We look forward to seeing you at Arrowhead on October 27th!

Wondering how much fun the walk is? View over 400 great images from the 2010 Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk to see what you missed.  

mardi gras prom Was Amazing

DSG was thrilled to host the 15th annual prom event, A Night at Mardi Gras, for young adults with Special Needs. The prom was attended by over 600 individuals with various disabilities such as Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Autism and other Developmental delays. Many of these individuals may not have had an opportunity to experience a typical prom due to lack of support, accessibility, or inclusion barriers.

Along with a $20,000 budget, this event takes the whole year to plan with a dedicated prom committee that gathers to make the evening memorable for everyone in attendance. The prom attendees enjoy a fully decorated ball room at the Overland Park Convention Center, a sit down dinner, hours of dancing and a goody bag to take home!

The prom would not exist without the amazing donors, sponsorships and 175 dedicated volunteers that help make the event a success.  We thank all involved for your dedication and hard work to put on this memorable event! View photos from the KC Star, our Smug Mug Page and view the video news coverage here.

The Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide support and resources for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. DSG seeks to provide the entire community with information and education to broaden awareness and foster positive attitudes regarding people with Down syndrome. 

DSG invites you to learn more about Down syndrome, our programs and services and to get involved. DSG is an organization that supports self-advocates, families, educators and healthcare professionals. Be sure to review our 2011 Annual Report, Connections Newsletter and our 2012 Brochure.  We invite you to consider being a DSG volunteer by reviewing opportunities and events our current Volunteer Voice E-blast.

My Special Child on Fox4

Don't forget to program your DVR's or watch the 5 PM news to watch My Special Child segments airing throughout 2012. Topics will cover the lifespan and promote greater awareness and opportunities for people with Down syndrome. 

In KC, watch 1^st and 3^rd Wednesdays on FOX4 at 5pm.  In Topeka, watch the 1^st and 3^rd Thursday on KSNT at 5pm. We will post links to the segments here so you can view and share them!

Educating Others About Us

Times Have Changed for People With Down Syndrome

Does my family member with Down syndrome need a guardian?

 
One of the critical issues facing parents, siblings or other concerned family members of an adult who has Down syndrome is how to best assist and protect him or her when it comes to making legal, financial and medical decisions. View some helpful resources on this topic here.

2011 Year in Review