Signature Services

We offer free, inclusive social groups for all ages that help individuals with Down syndrome build friendships, social skills, and community, in person or virtually, with flexible drop-in options. 

Discover family events, community groups, and support services that build connection, share resources, and strengthen belonging, empowering every family with support, encouragement, and community.

Connect with participants in our Adult Continuing Education program. We will create a positive, casual environment where volunteers can learn about our services, increase communication and social skills (for both participants and volunteers!), and make a new friend. Bring some breakfast items for brownie points! Please note these volunteer sessions take place on Friday mornings.

From time to time, we need extra hands around our campus for landscaping, light handiwork, maintenance projects, and general improvements. These opportunities are perfect for groups or individuals who enjoy working with their hands and want to make a visible, lasting impact on our space and the families we serve.

We have several events throughout the year, including our World Down Syndrome Day Celebration, 321 Fit, and Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk. These celebrations are well attended, and we need MANY volunteers to help our events run smoothly and ensure a meaningful experience for all.

Our highest need for volunteers! 

Down Syndrome Innovations provides a variety of  social events and services throughout the week for new parents, children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome, including social gatherings, skill-building sessions, and family engagement activities. Volunteers are needed to support staff, engage with attendees, and assist with setup and cleanup.

These 45-minute large group classes are designed to improve strength and endurance. Ideal for individuals who can follow along with minimal prompts in a group setting, these classes are great for those wanting to add exercise to their weekly routine.

Our Youth Fitness Program is designed for older children, guiding them through games and exercises to build their strength, stamina, and agility. An instructor leads the class; however, supporters are asked to attend and provide 1:1 support for their child.

In partnership with Special Olympics, Young Athletes is designed to promote the development of an active lifestyle through play for children. Self-advocates will engage in various activities and games alongside their peers, targeted towards gross motor and social skill development.

321 Fit is a large community event, a celebration of ability and inclusion, for all ages that features interactive fitness stations, presentations from self-advocates, Zumba, Yoga, healthy snacks, giveaways, and booths from local organizations and businesses serving the Down syndrome community. Hosted by Down Syndrome Innovations, the University of Kansas Alzheimer's Disease Center, and Special Olympics Kansas.

Family Fitness Tour is a special September event that brings families together across Kansas City for fitness, fun, and healthy snacks at multiple locations throughout the area. Families are encouraged to drop by at the closest stop on the tour. Bring your sneakers and your best effort, and prepare to enjoy a healthy outing with other families. Fitness stations will be set up to allow the whole family to experience different ways to move and how good it makes our bodies feel to be active.

We carve and customize positions to fit the needs of your company and provide job coaching assistance to set individuals up for success and sustainable employment.

We assess skills and abilities and match people in the corresponding jobs.

We educate, equip, and empower your staff with a toolkit of practical ways to support individuals with diverse abilities so they feel comfortable and confident working alongside them.

We assist with updating hiring and onboarding processes in support of people with diverse abilities.