Buddy Up Pickleball™ is a 60-minute pickleball program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No pickleball experience required.
Buddy Up Fitness™ is an ongoing fitness opportunity designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome. Warrior Class are open to ages 5-11 and Champion Class are for ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are also available to help each individual reach their fullest potential.
Join us for a fun and inclusive lacrosse practice designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome ages 9–21! This session will focus on basic lacrosse skills, movement, teamwork, and most importantly having fun in a supportive and encouraging environment. No prior lacrosse experience is required.
Buddy Up Pickleball™ is a 60-minute pickleball program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No pickleball experience required.
Buddy Up Fitness™ is an ongoing fitness opportunity designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome. Warrior Class are open to ages 5-11 and Champion Class are for ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are also available to help each individual reach their fullest potential.
Join us for a whiskey tasting experience at Lockwood as we explore how Texas whiskey is made—from the farm all the way to your glass. You’ll hear the story of Lockwood’s beginnings and be walked through the process of making Texas Whiskey and participate in a guided tasting!
Buddy Up Pickleball™ is a 60-minute pickleball program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No pickleball experience required.
Buddy Up Fitness™ is an ongoing fitness opportunity designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome. Warrior Class are open to ages 5-11 and Champion Class are for ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are also available to help each individual reach their fullest potential.
Buddy Up Pickleball™ is a 60-minute pickleball program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No pickleball experience required.
Buddy Up Fitness™ is an ongoing fitness opportunity designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome. Warrior Class are open to ages 5-11 and Champion Class are for ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are also available to help each individual reach their fullest potential.
One-day conference with specialized tracks focusing on topics related to early childhood, school age, and transition through adulthood. The conference also features sessions for self-advocates with Down syndrome ages 18 and older and sessions in Spanish.
Buddy Up Fitness™ is an ongoing fitness opportunity designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome. Warrior Class are open to ages 5-11 and Champion Class are for ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are also available to help each individual reach their fullest potential.
2026 World Down Syndrome Day Classroom Kits are coming soon! WDSD Classroom kits are FREE kits for educators in the DFW area with a student with Down syndrome in their classroom or school to help them celebrate and raise awareness about Down syndrome. Thanks to a generous donor, shipping has been covered this year.
Families and friends are invited to join us at STIX Icehouse in McKinney as we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day with a fun, family-friendly taco night!
Space is limited, so tickets must be purchased in advance. To ensure we stay within venue capacity, every person attending must have a ticket, regardless of whether they plan to eat.
Join us for the 7th Annual DMG Crawfish Boil & Picnic, held in honor of Exzayvian “X-Man” Lujan. All proceeds benefit the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas.
iCan Shine uses customized adapted equipment, trained professionals and volunteers. With 75 minutes of instruction over 5 days, approximately 80% of riders learn to ride a conventional bicycle independently by the end of camp. The remaining 20% often make great progress towards that goal.
To be eligible to enroll, riders must: be at least eight years old; have a disability; be able to walk without an assistive device such as a walker or cane; be able to side-step quickly to both sides; have a minimum inseam measurement of 20 inches from the floor; and weigh no more than 220 pounds.
iCan Shine's iCan Swim program teaches individuals with disabilities (ages 3 and up) the basics of water safety and independent movement in the water. Each swimmer has unique goals, from water exploration and safety to learning to swim or preparing for a swim team like Special Olympics or Paralympics. Goals are achieved in a safe, inclusive, and fun environment with volunteer support.
Buddy Up Fitness™ is an ongoing fitness opportunity designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome. Warrior Class are open to ages 5-11 and Champion Class are for ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are also available to help each individual reach their fullest potential.
Buddy Up Pickleball™ is a 60-minute pickleball program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No pickleball experience required.
Buddy Up Pickleball™ is a 60-minute pickleball program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12 and older. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No pickleball experience required.
Children with Down syndrome ages 0-13 and their parents are invited to join us at We Rock the Spectrumfor an afternoon of play and friends. We Rock the Spectrum is an inclusive gym with specially designed equipment for children of all abilities. There is a dedicated baby and toddler area, as well as slides, ziplines, and trampolines.
The Down Syndrome Guild invites families with children ages 0-12 who have Down syndrome to join us for a fun-filled holiday celebration! Families can enjoy a light breakfast, make a holiday craft, create their own hot chocolate, and more. Plus, everyone will have the chance to take a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
By Appointment Only. The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome (Crnic Institute) and Boys Town National Research Hospital (Boys Town) are partnering to offer FREE hearing tests as part of their Hearing and Balance in Down Syndrome Research Study. Participants will receive their hearing test results and be part of one of the largest Down syndrome biobanks in the world: The Human Trisome Project (HTP).
Join us for a hands-on Wreath Workshop and create a gorgeous wreath just in time for the holiday season! All materials including fresh blooms, greenery, and tools will be provided. Enjoy a relaxing evening with other moms of children with Down syndrome as we share dinner and non-alcoholic beverages (feel free to bring your favorite drink, too).
Stick Together is a community event dedicated to teaching lacrosse to children with Down Syndrome in a fun and supportive environment. Participants will rotate through different activity stations where they can learn passing, shooting, and other basic lacrosse skills while enjoying an inclusive and engaging experience with their families. The goal is to make this a recurring event that continues to celebrate and engage the Down Syndrome community through sport and connection.
The Dallas Buddy Walk® is the signature fundraising and awareness event for the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas bringing together more than 5,000 individuals with Down syndrome, their family members, and community supporters annually. The event features family-friendly activities like inflatables, music, games, face painting, vendor booths, and more for kids and adults alike. The event also includes an awareness walk that celebrates the abilities and accomplishments of all individuals with Down syndrome.
Join Us for a Park Playdate!
Bring the family and connect with other DSG families on Sunday, September 28, from 2 PM – 4 PM at a park near you! DSG families have volunteered to host playdates in various communities—find one closest to you and enjoy a fun afternoon outdoors.
North Texas Giving Day is Thursday, September 18, but early giving begins August 28. You can schedule your gift as early as August 28 - September 17 and help support the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas on the biggest community wide giving day across North Texas.
For Dads of Loved Ones with Down Syndrome! Ready for a night of cards, connection, and camaraderie? Join us for Poker Night at the DSG Offices — a laid-back evening just for dads.
The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome (Crnic Institute) and Boys Town National Research Hospital (Boys Town) are partnering with the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas (DSG) to offer FREE hearing tests as part of their Hearing and Balance in Down Syndrome Research Study. Participants will receive their hearing test results and be part of one of the largest Down syndrome biobanks in the world: The Human Trisome Project (HTP).
Each year, thousands of people from across the globe attend the NDSC Annual Convention. For most, it’s to hear the latest information from world-renowned experts. For others, it’s a great vacation. However, for nearly all, it is the one-of-a-kind NDSC “giant family reunion” feeling that permeates the convention weekend that brings them back year after year.
In honor of the 2025 Dallas Buddy Walk® this October, DSG families and supporters are invited to join us for a night at the ballpark. Families can get a sneak peek of our new Buddy Walk® venue while watching the Frisco Rough Riders take on the Corpus Christi Hooks. Representatives from the Down Syndrome Guild will be throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, and kids are invited to run the bases after the game.
iCan Shine's iCan Swim program teaches individuals with disabilities (ages 3 and up) the basics of water safety and independent movement in the water. Each swimmer has unique goals, from water exploration and safety to learning to swim or preparing for a swim team like Special Olympics or Paralympics. Goals are achieved in a safe, inclusive, and fun environment with volunteer support.
iCan Shine uses customized adapted equipment, trained professionals and volunteers. With 75 minutes of instruction over 5 days, approximately 80% of riders learn to ride a conventional bicycle independently by the end of camp. The remaining 20% often make great progress towards that goal.
To be eligible to enroll, riders must: be at least eight years old; have a disability; be able to walk without an assistive device such as a walker or cane; be able to side-step quickly to both sides; have a minimum inseam measurement of 20 inches from the floor; and weigh no more than 220 pounds.
Join us this June for a relaxed, come-and-go event series designed for families of children with Down syndrome (ages 5–12)! These informal gatherings are a great way to connect with other families in your area. Siblings are welcome, and you’re invited to come to one event—or join us for all of them!
This webinar will explore what research is and why it plays a vital role in improving healthcare for people with Down syndrome, as well as in developing new treatments for related health conditions. Ways families can get involved in research and make a meaningful impact will also be discussed.
Every Note Belongs is a sensory-friendly classical music concert presented in partnership with the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas and The Dallas Opera Orchestra. Conducted by Shira Samuels-Shragg, this intimate performance will feature pianist Mikhail Berestnev, soprano Ashley Townsley, and tenor Christopher A. Leach, accompanied by musicians from The Dallas Opera Orchestra.
The DSG is so excited to be returning to The Southern Cross Ranch this year for a day of family fun for the DSG Annual Family Picnic. The event includes a petting zoo, fishing ponds, playground, bubble garden, clown/balloon artist, face painting, bounce house, rock climbing wall, pedal boats, and sports fields, games, swimming pool, and lunch.
Join us for the 6th annual Dallas Mechanical Group Crawfish Boil benefiting the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas. There will be fun for the whole family including bugs, drinks, music, interactive games, over 100 raffle items, and more.
Moms are invited to join us for a hands-on flower arranging workshop where you'll create a beautiful floral arrangement to take home! All materials, including fresh blooms, greenery, vases, and tools, will be provided. DSG will offer light appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages, and you’re welcome to bring your favorite drink to enjoy.
Join Us for a Park Playdate!
Bring the family and connect with other DSG families on Saturday, April 12, from 2 PM – 4 PM at a park near you! DSG families have volunteered to host playdates in various communities—find one closest to you and enjoy a fun afternoon outdoors.
Every year on March 21, people worldwide celebrate World Down Syndrome Day by wearing brightly colored, mismatched socks. This date is significant because individuals with Down syndrome have three copies of the 21st chromosome. Socks were chosen as a symbol because the karyotype of Down syndrome chromosomes resembles mismatched socks!
2025 World Down Syndrome Day Classroom Kits are OUT OF STOCK! WDSD Classroom kits are FREE kits for educators in the DFW area with a student with Down syndrome in their classroom or school to help them celebrate and raise awareness about Down syndrome. Thanks to a generous donor, shipping has been covered this year.
Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day with advocates from across Texas! On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, individuals with Down syndrome, families, and friends will come together at the Texas State Capitol to make their voices heard. Participants will have the opportunity to meet with legislators, hear official proclamations, and connect with others passionate about advocacy and inclusion.
Join Julia Chalker and The Arc of DFW Area for an overview of the state of Long Term Services and Supports in Texas and learn how you can advocate for change. This program is provided in partnership with The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas and Down Syndrome Awareness Texas.
This event is exclusively for dads and guardians of individuals with Down syndrome. Join us on Sunday, February 23, 2025, from 2:30 PM to 5 PM (or until the basketball game ends) at COSM: Dallas. Step into The Dome and experience Mavericks vs Warriors in a revolutionary space that immerses you in the action, making you feel like you’re courtside at an NBA game! Food and drinks can be ordered conveniently through the Cosm mobile app or with a server. This is a great opportunity to connect and share experiences with other dads.
This virtual training will equip you with tools to effectively share your story, connect with policymakers, and advocate for meaningful change. Learn how to amplify our voices and make an impact for the Down syndrome community in Texas.
