programs overview

 

The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas is dedicated to providing accurate and current information, resources, and support to people with Down syndrome, their families, and the community from diagnosis through adulthood. Please select each category to learn more about specific program offerings and upcoming events for each age group.

 

NEW & EXPECTANT PARENTS
(AGES 0-4)

We provide resources and support to families from the moment of diagnosis (prenatally or after birth) through adulthood. New and expectant parents can request a resource packet, connect with our New & Expectant Parent Coordinator, and attend educational and social events specifically designed for ages 0-4.

YOUTH
(AGES 5-12)

Our youth programs are primarily focused on supporting families through the elementary and middle school years. Parents can learn from local and national experts through our educational seminars and annual education conference. An array of social and recreational programs are also offered for youth families.

TEENS
(AGES 13-17)

Our teen programs are focused on supporting and preparing teens and their families for the transition process. Parents can learn from local and national experts through our educational seminars and annual education conference. An array of social and skill-building programs are also offered for teen families.

 

ADULTS
(AGES 18+)

Our adult programs are focused on fostering independence and facilitating life-long friendships. Adults with Down syndrome have the opportunity to attend monthly social events in addition to semester literary and recreation programs. Educational offerings are also available for adult caregivers as part of our educational seminar series and annual education conference.

EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS FOR PARENTS & PROFESSIONALS

Through our annual education conference and seminar series, families and professionals can enhance their knowledge on a wide array of topics related to Down syndrome. Our educational offerings feature local and national experts in their respective fields. We believe that education is power arming caregivers with the tools to best support their loved ones with Down syndrome.

GRUPO DE FAMILIAS UNIDAS
(EN ESPAÑOL)

Grupo de Familias Unidas serves Spanish speaking and bi-lingual families. The group meets quarterly for informal gatherings, play dates, and educational seminars. We can also provide translation services upon request at many events as well as provide resources and support to new and expectant families in their native language.

 

DUAL DIAGNOSIS CONNECTION
(CO-OCCURRING DS & AUTISM )

The Dual Diagnosis Connection serves families whose loved one with Down syndrome has a co-occurring diagnosis of Autism and Down syndrome. The group currently meets quarterly to share information, resources, and support.

FAMILY CONNECTIONS
ACROSS THE LIFESPAN

The DSG was founded upon the principles of building opportunities for parents to connect across the lifespan. We have a community support network of over 2,500 families, a private member Facebook group, and numerous family and parent only events to facilitate connections across North Texas.

CAMPS & RECREATION
(FOR ALL AGES)

We are proud to both host and partner with numerous summer camps and recreation programs across North Texas. Buddy Up Tennis, iCan Shine Swim Camp, and iCan Shine Bike Camp are some the programs we have previously hosted and supported. Look for Down to Box coming in 2022-2023.