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Program Overview - Fall 2024

Our programs focus on therapeutic, recreational, educational, and social opportunities for all ages and stages. We tailor our offerings to reflect the need of our local families as we strive to provide valuable support and quality programs for those in our community.

Empowerment Series

Empowerment Series typically occur once a week for 3 – 5 weeks. The classes build upon each other and are designed to empower individuals with Down syndrome to try a new activity or work on a skill. Registration is required. For most series, there is a one-time $20 fee to participate for the entire series. DSAGC families are welcome to use our Community Participation Fund to help cover the cost. 

September

School Age Gymnastics

Ages: 6 - 11
Dates: Sundays | September 8 - 29
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 am
Location: The Gymnastics Center, 5166 Crookshank Rd, Cincinnati, OH  45238
Cost: $20
Description:  In our 60 min. gymnastics class, we will begin with a warm-up followed by a continuous course of activities on the floor, beam, tumble track, vault and loose foam pits.  This class is designed not only to teach gymnastics skills and fundamentals but to build confidence, strength, coordination, and flexibility. Participants will be required to sign The Gymnastics Center waiver at the first class.  Also, a doctor’s note will be required stating that the registrant is able to participate in gymnastics activities (rolling, etc.)
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens June 1 | Registration Closes September 2
Register

Teen Gymnastics

Ages: 12 - 17
Dates: Sundays | September 8 - 29
Time: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Location: The Gymnastics Center, 5166 Crookshank Rd, Cincinnati, OH  45238
Cost: $20
Description:  In our 60 min. gymnastics class, we will begin with a warm-up followed by a continuous course of activities on the floor, beam, tumble track, vault and loose foam pits.  This class is designed not only to teach gymnastics skills and fundamentals but to build confidence, strength, coordination, and flexibility. Participants will be required to sign The Gymnastics Center waiver at the first class.  Also, a doctor’s note will be required stating that the registrant is able to participate in gymnastics activities (rolling, etc.)
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens June 1 | Registration Closes September 2
Register

T.E.L.L. Speech Program

Ages: 18 and up
Date: Mondays (September 30- December 2)
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 pm or 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $75 for entire 10-week session
Description: T.E.L.L. stands for Teaching Engagement and Lifelong Language. This program focuses on enhancing communication by providing useful, beneficial, and personalized supports for each participant. The goal of T.E.L.L. is to increase individual progress when interacting with others to effectively communicate wants and needs. The class is led by University of Cincinnati Speech-Language Pathology graduate students under the supervision of licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, Kendra Thornock.
*Note: once registered, we will be reaching out to schedule a “speech evaluation”. These will take place on either September 16 or September 23.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes September 12
Register

October 

Music with Kim

Ages: 0 - 7 (siblings welcome)
Date: Thursdays (October 3 – November 14…no class on October 31)
Time: 5:30 pm - 6:15 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $20 for entire series
Description: In this class parents and children will interact through instrument exploration, learning new songs, movement and sensory exploration all while working towards developmental milestones in communication, social and motor skills.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes September 26
Register

Cheerleading

Ages: grades K - 12
Date/Time/Location: see link below for details
Cost: $40 (includes cheer uniform and poms)
Description: Be a part of the DSAGC Cheer Squad! This program provides a dynamic experience to empower individuals with Down syndrome to SHINE. Through tailored routines and a supportive environment, participants gain confidence, build meaningful relationships, and develop important life skills. For many, cheerleading becomes more than just an activity—it’s a source of joy, empowerment, and a celebration of their abilities!
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 22

Learn more and Register

College Prep Series

Ages: anyone interested in learning more about college opportunities
Date/Time/Location: see below
Cost:
Free
Description: The DSAGC College Prep Series can help parents and students explore local academia opportunities, meet and learn from those who have attended local area programs, and discover ways to prepare NOW for college life. It’s never too early to start preparing!
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes September 26
Register

Thursday, October 3
Northern Kentucky University’s SHEP Program

10:45 am: Check-In
11 am: SHEP Info Session
11:30 am: Campus Tour
12:30 pm: Lunch (optional and at own cost)

Friday, November 1
University of Cincinnati TAP Program

8:30 am: Check-In
9 am: TAP Information Session
10:30 am: Campus and Residence Hall Tour
*please note, Early Applications are due for the 2025 school year is on October 25.

Tuesday, November 5
Panel Q & A
Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati

5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Two TAP graduates, their parents, and TAP representatives will be available to answer any questions you may have about the program.

Tuesday, November 12
Info Session
Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati

5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
A representative from THINK college and a family who participated in the TAP program will discuss how to best prepare your child for a college program.

Chair Yoga

Ages: 35 and up
Date: Thursdays (October 3 – November 14)
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $20 for entire series
Description: Namaste! Together, we reap the benefits of this modified form of yoga. Chair yoga is more accessible for those who may have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. Even in a seated position, chair yoga can help release tension, reduce pain, improve sleep, enhance stability, increase balance, and promote stress-reduction.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes September 26
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Lifelong Learning Labs: Social Skills

Ages: 22 and up
Date: Mondays (October 7 – November 25)
Time: 6:30 pm – 8 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $20 for entire series
Description: Join us for an empowering eight-week journey where we will explore the many facets of healthy relationships, including friendships, coworkers, and romantic connections. In this class, we will explore how to communicate your wants and needs clearly, understand the importance of consent, and recognize the signs of unhealthy relationships. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and skills to build positive, fulfilling relationships in every aspect of your life. Our Lifelong Learning Labs occur each quarter with a new curriculum focus. They are designed for those who have graduated high school and are looking to continue working on their educational skills.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes September 30
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Leisure Exploration

Ages: 18 - 34
Date: Wednesday, October 9 + Saturdays (October 19, November 16, and December 21)
Time: Oct 9 (7 – 8 pm) + exact times for Saturdays will be provided once activities are chosen
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $30 for entire series
Description: Looking to explore new activities or hobbies? Our leisure exploration series will provide young adults with the opportunity to learn about new activities to do in their free time. At the first session, we will discuss what “leisure” is and participants will have the opportunity to choose their schedule of leisure activities for the remainder of the program. Over the following weeks, participants will get to try these new activities and be provided with resources on how to continue their new leisure activities and hobbies at home or out in the community.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 2
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NEW! Girl Scout Troop

Ages: school-age (grades K - 12) *siblings welcome
Date: Every other Tuesday starting October 15
Time: 6 pm - 7 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio)
Cost: $25 one-time fee for annual dues
Description: Mrs. Tenita will be leading a girl scout troop at the Down Syndrome Association! The Girl Scouts' mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. The Girl Scouts' programs help girls:
• Discover their strengths, passions, and talents 
• Meet new challenges 
• Find their voices 
• Make changes that affect important issues 
• Develop leadership skills and self-esteem 
• Learn about science and technology, business and economic literacy, and outdoor and environmental awareness 
Registration Opens October 1st 
Register

Mixed Martial Arts - Kentucky

Ages: 12 and up
Date: Saturdays (October 26 – November 16)
Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Location: Club MMA (1805 Alexandria Pike Highland Heights, KY 41076)
Cost: $20 for entire series
Description: The amazing instructors at Club MMA will help teens benefit from both physical and social accomplishments. Be prepared to increase coordination, balance, strength, and flexibility while boosting self-esteem and enhancing focus. Club MMA wants to foster a sense of community, so we will also dive into the importance of teamwork, friendship, and respect.
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 19
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Tall Tales and Short Stories Book Club

Ages: 30 and up
Date: Wednesdays (October 30 – December 18)
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: Green Township Branch Library (6525 Bridgetown Rd Cincinnati, Ohio 45248)
Cost: Free
Description: Do you enjoy being transported to different worlds where you meet interesting characters and learn about exciting new things?  If so, this book club is for you! This club is designed for both those who read and those who do not – all you need is a love of stories!  We will dive into fourteen short stories. We will follow each book with a group discussion. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the stories – reading, listening, adapted books, etc. Let’s spark our imaginations, together!
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 23
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November

Soccer Shots

Ages: 6 – 11 & 12 - 17
Date: Wednesdays (November 6 – December 4)
Time: 6 – 11 (5:30 – 6:15 pm) & 12 – 17 (6:25 – 7:10 pm)
Location: Grace Communion Cincinnati West (5000 North Bend Road Cincinnati, OH 45211)
Cost: $20 for entire series
Description: This engaging soccer program focuses on learning the basics of soccer while promoting positive character development. Coaches will work with athletes on motor skills, strength, and endurance through modified drills and exercise.
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 30
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Mixed Martial Arts - Ohio

Ages: 12 and up
Date: Saturdays (November 9 – 30)
Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Location: Club MMA (3285 Westbourne Drive Cincinnati, Ohio 45248)
Cost: $20 for entire series
Description: The amazing instructors at Club MMA will help teens benefit from both physical and social accomplishments. Be prepared to increase coordination, balance, strength, and flexibility while boosting self-esteem and enhancing focus. Club MMA wants to foster a sense of community, so we will also dive into the importance of teamwork, friendship, and respect.
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 2
Register

December

Zumbini PJ Party

Ages: 0 - 5
Date: Thursdays (December 5 – 19)
Time: 5:45 pm - 6:30 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: Put on your jammies to come sing, dance, and move with us as we help get your pre-bed wiggles out in this 45-minute parent/child Zumbini class! Zumbini® is an early childhood education program that uses original music and movement to promote cognitive, social, fine/gross motor skills, and emotional development for children, all while creating the ultimate bonding experience for families.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 28
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Enrichment Classes

Enrichment Classes focus on increasing knowledge about a particular topic or enhancing a specific skill. These classes are different from our Empowerment Series because there is only one class to attend rather than a "series" of classes. Registration is required. Most of our enrichment classes are free or charge a very small registration fee.

September

Our Five Senses

Ages: 0 - 7
Date: Tuesday, September 10
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center, 4623 Wesley Ave., Suite B, Cincinnati, OH 45212
Cost: Free
Description: The Cincinnati Museum Center is joining us to explore our five senses! It takes a nose to know – or maybe hands, ears, eyes, or a tongue! Learn about the magic of your senses through fun, hands-on activities, and interact with a live animal.
Registration Opens June 1 | Registration Closes September 4
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Kindness Crew - Meals on Wheels

Ages: 18 and up
Date: Saturday, September 14
Time: 10 am – 12 pm
Location: Meals on Wheels – 2091 Radcliff Drive Cincinnati, Ohio 45204
Cost: Free
Description: Our Kindness Crew is a way to connect and give back to the community! At this outing, we will be packing dog food for senior citizen pets. Closed toe shoes required.
Registration Opens June 1 | Registration Closes September 9
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Play with the Pros - Zip Button Snap!

Ages: 0 - 7
Date: Saturday, September 14
Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Location: ABC Pediatrics in West Chester, 7591 Tylers Pl Blvd, West Chester Township, OH 45069
Cost: Free
Description: Fall is approaching - which means coats, pants, hats and gloves will be on their way into the closet. We will be working with therapists from ABC Pediatrics on fine motors skills - specifically focusing on zips, buttons and snaps as we head towards colder weather.
Registration Opens June 1 | Registration Closes September 9
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October

Leaves for Little Folks

Ages: 0 - 7 (siblings welcome)
Date: Wednesday, October 2
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, 3455 Poole Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45251
Cost: Free
Description: Let’s jump into FALL by celebrating trees and leaves! We’ll play a leaf sorting game, read a story about the seasons, take a hike along a paved path to investigate leaves, and meet a live animal that depends upon leaves for survival.
Registration: Please register child with Down syndrome and siblings who will be attending.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes September 25
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Transition Fair

Ages: 13 and up along with their parent(s)/caregiver(s)
Dates: Saturday, October 5
Time: 11 am – 1 pm (open house)
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: Have you considered what your loved one is going to do when they complete traditional schooling? Join us at our very own transition fair to learn about educational and employment support options for individuals transitioning out of school. Come learn about opportunities from Great Oaks, Pathways, Transition Living Classroom, Warren Count Project Search, The Point, NORSE Project Search, Northern Kentucky University, The Ohio State University, Easterseals Redwood, LADD, BAWAC, New Perceptions, and more! 

A light lunch will be provided, and students will have the opportunity to win a brand-new Chromebook (must attend to register for the drawing)!

Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 5
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Kindness Crew - Farm

Ages: 18 and up
Date: Saturday, October 12
Time: 9 am – 12 pm
Location: Tikkun Farms (7941 Elizabeth Street Cincinnati, OH 45231)
Cost: Free
Description: Our Kindness Crew is a way to connect and give back to the community! At this outing, we will be working on the farm with plants and building crock pot meals.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 5
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Kindness Crew – Crayons to Computers

Ages: ages 18 and up
Date: Saturday, October 26
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Crayons to Computers (1350 Tennessee Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229)
Cost: Free
Description:  Our Kindness Crew is a way to connect and give back to the community! At this outing, we will working with the Cincinnati Rotary at Crayons to Computers.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 19
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Drumming for Wellness - October

Ages: 35+ (morning) & 25+ (evening)
Date: Tuesday, October 29
Time: Morning – 11 am – 12 pm & Evening – 6 pm – 7 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $5
Description: Drumming offers a blend of physical, mental, and emotional benefits – improved blood circulation, boosts mood & immunity, reduces inflammation, better cognitive function, relieves stress & anxiety, reduces pain, provides social connection, may improve cognitive function in people with dementia, and it is fun!
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 22
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November

Drumming for Wellness – November

Ages: 35+ (morning) & 25+ (evening)
Date: Tuesday, November 19
Time: Morning – 11 am – 12 pm & Evening – 6 pm – 7 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $5
Description: Drumming offers a blend of physical, mental, and emotional benefits – improved blood circulation, boosts mood & immunity, reduces inflammation, better cognitive function, relieves stress & anxiety, reduces pain, provides social connection, may improve cognitive function in people with dementia, and it is fun!
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 12
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Adaptive Cooking - November

Ages: ages 25 and up
Date: Saturday, November 23
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Location: Boltz to Nutz Farm (10718 Schlottman Rd, Loveland, OH 45140)
Cost: $5
Description: Our adaptive cooking classes promote independence while sharing a positive experience in the kitchen! Through cooking, participants work on a variety of skills including communication, social, fine motor, executive function, and more! Alongside friends, we foster a safe learning environment for all.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 16
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December

Professionalism at Work

Ages: 18 and up
Dates: Tuesday, December 3
Time: 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Community Room (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite A Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: A team of professionals from PwC will lead this session focused on professionalism at work.  The session will cover topics such as resume building, soft skills and other employment skills that participants can apply at their current or future place of work.  A light dinner will be provided at 6:30 pm.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 26
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Adaptive Cooking – December

Ages: ages 25 and up
Date: Saturday, December 14
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Location: Boltz to Nutz Farm (10718 Schlottman Rd, Loveland, OH 45140)
Cost: $5
Description: Our adaptive cooking classes promote independence while sharing a positive experience in the kitchen! Through cooking, participants work on a variety of skills including communication, social, fine motor, executive function, and more! Alongside friends, we foster a safe learning environment for all.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes December 7
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Social Opportunities

Social Opportunities occur on occasion and include various learning components, but focus heavily on social networking and building relationships. Registration is required for each individual social. At times there may be a cost associated, but the majority of these opportunities are free.

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Early Matters Play Group

Ages: 0 – 5 (siblings welcome)
Date: every Wednesday (check calendar for special playgroup days and activities)
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: The Early Matters Playgroup is an opportunity for parents to socialize with each other while children interact and play together. Each playgroup will start with circle time (introductions and a welcome song) and the rest of the time will be spent as open play. Siblings are welcome to attend.
Registration: We kindly ask that you register for the “special” playgroup days and activities listed below, but feel free to just pop in on regular playgroup days!

Story Time with Mr. C

Ages: 0 - 5 (siblings welcome)
Date: First Wednesday of the month – October 2, November 6, and December 4
Time: 11:00 - 11:30 am
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: Mr. C from the Norwood Library will be joining us at play group once a month with Story Time! He will be bringing books, songs, activities and more. Each month will have a different seasonal theme. We hope you can join us for a morning of learning and fun!
Register

Playgroup at the “Together for Down Syndrome Mural”

Ages: 0 – 12 (siblings welcome)
Date: Wednesday, October 16 
Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Location: Together for Down Syndrome Mural - 209 East 12th Street in downtown Cincinnati Cost: Free
Description: Let’s celebrate DS Awareness month by enjoying a morning with donuts at our “Together for Down Syndrome” Mural in downtown Cincinnati. After pictures at the mural, we’ll head across the street for playtime at Ziegler Park!
Register

September

Parents Night Out

Ages: Parents of All Ages
Date: Friday, September 13
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Rhinegeist Brewery
Cost: Free
Description: Enjoy an evening out to relax and connect with other DSAGC parents. The DSAGC will have a table reserved in the Rhinegeist tap room. Lite bites will be provided.
Registration Opens June 1 | Registration Closes September 13
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Volleyball Party

Ages: 6 and up
Dates: Saturday, September 14
Time: 3:00 - 4:30 pm
Location: Kings High School
Cost: Free
Description: Join Coach Amanda Meadows (head coach of Kings Highschool and Elevation Club) for a volleyball party! After some fun on the court, there will be a pizza party for all!
Email Joanie@dsagc.com if you can make it!

Photography Day

September 28
Photography Day is an opportunity for you and your family to get pictures taken by a professional photographer. Following your session, you will receive all the photos digitally at no cost to you. This opportunity is FREE to DSAGC families, but registration is required. Space is limited and fills on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Learn more and register

October

Respite Care

Ages: all ages (including siblings)
Date: Saturday, October 5
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: Our respite care provides parents with short-term care services in a safe, supportive, and structured setting. After drop-off, parents will have three hours to themselves to do whatever they please! Our “care assistant” volunteers work alongside DSAGC staff. They are trained and must pass a background check.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes September 14
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Trunk-Or-Treat

Ages: Families of all ages
Date: Sunday, October 13
Time: 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Location: DSAGC (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: Dress up in your favorite Halloween costumes and join us for our Spooktacular Trunk-or-Treat! Visit each decorated “trunk” for a treat, grab a photo at our Fall-tastic photo booth, come inside for a craft or dance party! This event is a safe, fun, family-friendly environment for all.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 12
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Art and Apps

Ages: ages 18 and up
Date: Friday, October 18
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $10
Description: Join us for an evening of art and apps! Each person will get to create a piece of art to take home! Appetizers and refreshments will be provided.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 11
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Fashion Show presented by Media Club

Ages: ages 18 and up
Date: Sunday, October 20
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: We invite you to EXPRESS YOURSELF in a fashion show! Wear your favorite outfit or costume and showcase all the wonderful things that make you unique! Each participant will walk the “runway” to their favorite music then have a short moment on stage to express themselves through song, dance, speech, or a wave! Each adult with Down syndrome can invite four guests to watch the show. PS – next year, we hope to expand our fashion show to all ages! Stay tuned.

6:00 – 6:45 pm: Practice (we kindly ask audience members to not enter the Empowerment Center until 6:45 pm)
7:00 – 8:00 pm: Show with Audience
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 13
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Adult Halloween Party

Ages: ages 18 and up
Date: Friday, October 25
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: $10
Description: Wear your favorite Halloween costume and join us for a SPOOKTACULAR party filled with MONSTROUS music and FRIGHTENING fun! Adults will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with their friends while enjoying snacks, crafts, music and more.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 18
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November

Rise and Shine – New Family Welcome

Ages: All Families New to the DSAGC
Date: Saturday, November 16
Time: 9:30am - 11:00 am
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: Rise and Shine is a brunch where we welcome the newest families to the DSAGC community. This is an opportunity for our new families to hear from some of our organization’s leaders and adults with Down syndrome as well as meet other new families in the group. Registration is open for the entire family - siblings and grandparents included! There will be a short program and plenty of time for families to mingle and play in the Empowerment Center!
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 9
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Ninja Day

Ages: 6 - 17
Date: Sunday, November 10
Time: 1:00 – 2:30 pm
Location: USA Ninja Challenge (4727 Red Bank Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45227)
Cost: $5
Description: Join us for a fun day at USA Ninja Challenge! You’ll get to have fun with some friends while completing ninja warrior obstacle courses. Participate in exciting activities similar to gymnastics, climbing, cross training, and more! Each participant with Down syndrome should bring one friend or family member who can accompany them throughout the event to help with safety.
Registration: Required. A waiver form will be sent out for completion for each registrant.
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 3
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December

Annual Holiday Party

Date & Location TBA. Stay tuned for our information about our annual Holiday Party! This event is for families of all ages. 

Siblings Only Social

Ages: siblings age 4 - 14
Date: Sunday, December 15
Time: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Location: USA Ninja Challenge (4727 Red Bank Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45227)
Cost: $5
Description: We want to celebrate awesome siblings of the DSAGC! Come join us for an afternoon of ACTION as you take on the Ninja Challenge obstacle course. You will participate in exciting activities similar to gymnastics, climbing, cross training, and more! After, we’ll also have a snack and opportunity to connect with other awesome DSAGC siblings.
Registration: Required. Please register each individual who will be participating. A waiver form will be sent out for completion for each registrant.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes December 8
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Holiday Movie Night

Ages: ages 18 and up
Date: Friday, December 20
Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Cost: Free
Description: Join us for a Holiday Movie - Double Feature! Grab your popcorn as we watch holiday films on our BIG SCREEN. Food and drinks will be provided. We will take a poll on which movies to watch the week before!
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes December 13
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Virtual Programs

In addition to our in-person offerings, we host monthly virtual programs which allows families the opportunity to learn together in the comfort of their own home! 

Virtual Cooking with Chef Harvey

Ages: all ages
Dates: 3rd Thursday of the every month – October 17, November 21, December 19
Time: 5:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Description: Join Chef Harvey in this virtual cooking class where we will create something delicious!  While learning about kitchen tools, ingredients, and recipes, we will also be working on a variety of fine motor skills and sequencing. Participating in our cooking classes is another avenue to work on cognitive skills and sensory development.
Questions about this program? Contact Joanie@dsagc.com.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 10
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Virtual Family Bingo

Ages: all ages
Dates: once a month (October 9, November 6, December 11)
Time: 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Description: Families of all ages are invited to play a few rounds of Bingo each month! Playing Bingo is fun and strengthens important skills like recognition, observation, concentration, and turn-taking.
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes October 2
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Virtual Baking with Chef Jordan

Ages: all ages
Dates: November 12 and December 17
Time: 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Location: Zoom
Cost: Free
Description: Join Chef Jordan & Chef Daniel in this fun virtual baking class where we'll be working on skills such as measuring, stirring, and cooking. Our fine motor skills, those involving small muscles of the hands and fingers, will be enhanced while baking up a tasty treat! A bonus of these virtual classes is that you will be practicing cooking in your own kitchen with your own appliances and utensils!
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 5
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Find Your Way 

Our “Find Your Way” program offers FOUR different retreat experiences for adults with Down syndrome. These retreats focus on increasing personal independence and self-determination!

Throughout the year, we also offer a collection of life skills classes to build upon what is learned at the retreats. These classes are called “Tune-Ups” to go along with our race car theme.

Find Your Way “Ignite” Retreat

Saturday, April 13
A one-day event for those who are beginning to make self-determination a focus

Find Your Way “Accelerate” Weekend Retreat

June 28 - 30
An overnight weekend retreat for those who are comfortable staying overnight & interested in learning skills to live a self-determined life.

Find Your Way “Navigate” Weekend Retreat

November 8 - 10
An overnight weekend retreat for those who are comfortable staying overnight and considering moving out or living more independently within the next year
Registration is full.

Find Your Way "Cruise" Retreat

Saturday, September 25
A one-day retreat for those who are living independently to practice skills and socialize with others who share similar living arrangements.
Registration is full.

Find Your Way “Tune Ups” Classes

Find Your Way Tune-Ups are a collection of life skills classes to help young adults improve their self-determination and independence skills. These allow young adults to gain experience with the skills that they will need to live more independently. Ideally, those who participate in a tune up classes will have attended a Find Your Way program in the past.

Cooking (Breakfast)
Thursday, November 21
6:00 – 8:00 PM
DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes November 14
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Household Organization

Monday, December 9
6:00 – 8:00 PM
DSAGC Empowerment Center (4623 Wesley Avenue, Suite B Cincinnati, Ohio 45212)
Registration Opens September 1st | Registration Closes December 2
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Community Groups

Community Groups are designed to create opportunities for families that have children with Down syndrome to network and share common interests, concerns, challenges, and information. Community Groups connect through online chat groups and in-person meet ups! We have groups by area, birth year, and affinity. Be sure to check the calendar and online groups for Community Group event information.

Fall Community Group Events

September 19 – Butler/Warren Mom’s Night Out
September 20 – Homeschool Hangout
October 4 – Homeschool Hangout
October 6 – Birth Year 2024 Gathering
October 10 – African American Family Network Run United
October 12 – Eastside Shaw Farms
October 13 – NKY Group Pumpkin Patch
October 20 – Birth Year 2020 Gathering
October 27 – Hispanic Family Group Parent Workshop
November 1 – Homeschool Hangout
November 16 – African American Family Network Meetup
December 14 – African American Family Network Holiday Party