Programs

All are welcome to participate in our volunteer managed clubs, activities, and opportunities for recreation and networking.  Our age-specific programs let children and adults who have Down syndrome meet peers and connect through social and learning activities.  Our family support programs let family members come together to share insight and experiences.

Lil’ Buddies

Parent-driven playgroups.  A time for kids to play together and for families to connect.

  • Who: Infants and children with Down syndrome aged 5 and younger, along with their families
  • When: Twice monthly
  • Where:  A non-structured and informal environment with families taking turns hosting play times at their home

    • Program Contact: Kristie Yerger, infant_toddler@idahodownsyndrome.org, 208-938-5812

    Cool Club

    The mission of “Cool Club” is to provide a safe and fun environment where the members are encouraged to develop trusting friendships, learn appropriate social and communication skills, and promote tolerance and patience between members and their families.  Activities that are appropriate include anything teens might be doing!  Activities could include: movie/popcorn nights, game night, dancing/music night, dinner out, sports events, or swimming at a community pool.  All participants and their guardian are to sign a medical release and Cool Club rules agreement.

  • Who: Middle and high school teenagers with Down syndrome aged 12 – 17
  • When: Once monthly
  • Where: Host homes on a rotational basis

    • Program Contact: Molly Benton, secondary_ed@idahodownsyndrome.org, 208-468-0335

    Adults in Motion (AIM)

    A fun social group for adults with Down syndrome.  Our members are eager to make new friends and socialize.  We may be found enjoying air hockey, skee ball and pinball, or we might be found singing karaoke and dancing.  We always bring food to share – healthy snacks or dishes with a theme.  We definitely have fun, but we also get involved.  We are self advocates who contribute to TVDSA at the Buddy Walk, World Down Syndrome Day and through various community projects.  Please come join us at our meetings – we would love to meet you and have you be part of our group!

  • Who: Adults with Down syndrome aged 18 or older
  • When: Third Saturday of every month, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
  • Where: Gallas Rec Room, 11368 E Greenhurst Rd, Nampa ID 83686

    • Program Contact: Freddie Gallas or Karleen Lemmon, adults@idahodownsyndrome.org

    Outreach Program

    Our Outreach Program aims to assist organizations to expand Down syndrome awareness and education.  We work with healthcare organizations to help make a positive impact on the health of people with Down syndrome, collaborate with local community organizations to organize awareness events, and serve as an advocate in government for people with Down syndrome and their families.

    Healthcare Outreach Contact: Tonya Maestretti, hospitals@idahodownsyndrome.org
    Community Outreach Contact: Trish Vranish, community@idahodownsyndrome.org
    Legislative Outreach Contact: Deborah Waters, legislation@idahodownsyndrome.org