Programs

All current members 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 happen to 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. If you are currently not a member, you can join using the link in the sidebar.

Given the current climate with COVID still affecting our loved ones more than others, TVDSA is following an enhanced set of protocols with you and your families safety in mind. Please review them at this link and let us know if you have any questions. Our group leads will be enforcing these rules so please do your best to help them comply.

All participants will be required to RSVP using the forms for the respective group events AND complete the COVID waiver no more than TWO days prior to the event. Temperatures will be taken and forms reaffirmed the day of the event.

Kindness Rules!

Lil’ Buddies

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

  • Who: 5 and younger, along with their families
  • When: Once monthly
  • Where: A non-structured and informal environment with families taking turns hosting play times at their home, or other locations. Location Varies – TBA

Program Contact: lilbuddies@idahodownsyndrome.org

Best Buds

The mission of “Best Buds” is to enhance self esteem, teach social problem solving and to foster friendships all while having fun. Our gatherings may include a soccer game at the local park, a trip to a fire station or an adventure at a local museum. No matter where we are you can be assured we are having fun!

  • Who: 6-11
  • When: Once monthly
  • Where: Location Varies – TBA

Program Contact: bestbuds@idahodownsyndrome.org

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 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: 12 – 17
  • When: Once monthly
  • Where: Location Varies – TBA

Program Contact: coolclub@idahodownsyndrome.org

Adults in Motion (A.I.M.)

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 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: 18 or older
  • When: Once monthly
  • Where: Location Varies – TBA

Program Contact: aim@idahodownsyndrome.org

Moms Night Out (MOMS)

The mission of MOMS to support, through fellowship, the mothers of individuals with Down syndrome.

  • Who: All mothers of a child with Down syndrome regardless of age
  • When: Once monthly
  • Where: Location Varies – TBA

Program Contact: moms@idahodownsyndrome.org

Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome (D.A.D.S.)

The mission of “D.A.D.S.” is to assist and support through fellowship and action the fathers and families of individuals with Down syndrome.

  • Who: All fathers of a child with Down syndrome regardless of age
  • When: Once monthly
  • Where: Location Varies – TBA

Program Contact: dads@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: hospitals@idahodownsyndrome.org
Community Outreach Contact: community@idahodownsyndrome.org
Legislative Outreach Contact: legislation@idahodownsyndrome.org