ADULTS AGES 18+
Many families in the adult years seek advice and support as they tackle areas like employment, housing, continuing education, aging, health/wellness, and more. The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas provides information, resources, support, and connection opportunities for both adult caregivers and self-advocates with Down syndrome. Our Adult Program has a large focus on fostering independence and facilitating life-long friendships for adults with Down syndrome. Our monthly socials and semester literacy/recreation series are some of our most popular offerings. Educational seminars and connection opportunities for caregivers also remain a priority throughout the adult years. Additionally, our comprehensive online resource library and staff are available to help provide direction and referrals for families as they navigate the adult years.
INFORMATION & RESOURCES
EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS
Series of educational seminars and webinars that bring together local and national experts to help educate families on some of the most commonly asked questions at each life stage.
ONLINE RESOURCE LIBRARY
Our most trusted resources in multiple categories for you to browse online anytime.
GLOBAL MEDICAL CARE GUIDELINES FOR ADULTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME
The new GLOBAL Medical Care Guidelines for Adults with Down Syndrome provide first in-kind, evidence-based medical recommendations to support clinicians in their care of adults with Down syndrome. The Global Guideline addresses nine medical areas: Behavioral Health, Dementia, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Obesity, Atlantoaxial Instability, Osteoporosis, Thyroid, and Celiac Disease. In addition to the Full Guideline for clinicians, there is now a Family-Friendly Version of the Guideline, and multiple Toolkits and Checklists available for download. The Down Syndrome Guild is a proud Benefactor level supporter of the GLOBAL Adult Guidelines.
PRIMARY CARE CLINIC FOR ADULTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME
Under the direction of Dr. Tara Goodwin with support from the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas, a new primary clinic for adults with Down syndrome opened in April 2022. Dr. Goodwin has researched Adult Down Syndrome Clinics across the country with a passion for building a quality medical care community for adults with Down syndrome in North Texas.
CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM
We probably have a resource for that! Our staff and Board include former educators, parents, and other professionals. Please reach out with any questions, concerns, or resource referral requests.
SUPPORT & CONNECTIONS
PRIVATE MEMBER FACEBOOK GROUP
Connect with other parents online at anytime through our private member Facebook Group. Must be a parent and current member of the DSG.
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
Sorry, parents only! Social activities for moms, dads, and couples to connect in a fun setting with other parents of all ages.
SELF-ADVOCATE SOCIALS
Monthly social activities for adults with Down syndrome that foster independence and facilitate life-long friendships. Locations and activities vary each month and may include sporting events, movie nights, dinner, pool parties, game nights, etc. Support is provided by DSG staff and peer volunteers.
SELF-ADVOCATE BOOK CLUB SERIES
6-8 week semester book club series that promotes literacy skills and facilitates life-long friendships. Readers (and non-readers) of all levels are welcome and encouraged to attend. Book club meets weekly each semester. Support is provided by DSG staff and peer volunteers.
SPRING FAMILY PICNIC
Annual membership-wide picnic that includes family fun for all ages.
ICAN SHINE SWIM & BIKE CAMPS
Week-long camps that teach children and adults with disabilities water safety and enhancement skills or how to ride a two-wheel bicycle. Camp offerings vary each summer.
BUDDY UP TENNIS DALLAS
The DSG is proud to support Buddy Up Tennis Dallas, which teaches tennis skills to children and adults with Down syndrome.
BUDDY UP PICKLEBALL MCKINNEY
The DSG encourages families to join Buddy Up Pickleball McKinney, which teaches the game of pickleball, ball control and tracking activities to children and adults with Down syndrome.
BEST BUDDIES
The DSG partners with the SMU Chapter of Best Buddies throughout the school year to help facilitate one-to-one friendships with peers.
BUDDY WALK®
The largest community wide celebration of people with Down syndrome in North Texas. The event features family-friendly activities for all ages and an awareness walk. Proceeds benefit the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas.
