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Together with the help of our corporate sponsors and teams, we raised over $430,000

at our 2024 Tour Of Champions Bowl-A-Thon & Silent Auction!


Thanks to YOU and our amazing supporters and volunteers the money we raised will help us in fulfilling our mission of providing support and opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and their families for the remainder of the year.  

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our families, our supporters, and the community. We are humbled by your support and are incredibly thankful.



 Because of YOU, our sponsors, and local support from the 100+ teams who bowled both in person and virtually - we will continue to STRIKE DOWN BARRIERS TO INCLUSION!


THANK YOU to all of you who participated in any way - your time, talent, and treasure are making a difference in our community and across Florida.


It's amazing to see our community come together to provide more opportunities for each other! More opportunities to dance, learn, play, celebrate, work, connect, grow, and realize our potential!


Thank you for helping us provide these opportunities.

Our purpose is to show that when POTENTIAL is given OPPORTUNITY, the outcome is SUCCESS! 💚🎳

Click here to see our Tour of Champions Bowl-A-Thon picture album. Do you want to share your pictures? Drop them in the album!

Click here to see our photobooth pictures!

March Events

March


  • March 4-8 - Neurodevelopmental Evaluations with Kay Ness







  • March 31 - Last day to get $50 when you open your ABLE United Account!


April










Weekly Virtual Programs





Let's celebrate YOU!

On this day, we raise public awareness and create a single global voice advocating for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of our <<<lucky>>> tribe.

Don't want to miss our events and programs?

Like and follow our Social Media pages!

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In this issue:


  • Down Syndrome Clinic for Children - Register TODAY!
  • Summer Scholarships are OPEN!
  • LEAP - Learning Enrichment Academic Program
  • Lucky Littles (birth to age eight) Outing
  • World Down Syndrome Day Celebration
  • Do You Have A Minute? All About ABLE United Accounts
  • SAVE THE DATE! Lucky Littles and Young Explorers April Meetup
  • SAVE THE DATE! T21 Social Network (18+) April Meetup
  • SAVE THE DATE! Dad's Night Out April Meetup
  • iCan! Surf IS BACK!
  • 2024 iCan! Bike Camp Registration is OPEN!
  • iCan! Work
  • Self Advocacy Camp
  • Orlando Magic Volunteering Opportunity
  • Virtual Social Groups

Register TODAY!

Down Syndrome Clinic for Children

The Down Syndrome Clinic for Children is jointly hosted by the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida and Orlando Health. All participants will have an opportunity to have a hearing evaluation by an audiologist and will receive a list of local medical providers. REGISTER today!


The following specialists will be available for a consultation:


  • Behavior
  • Cardiology 
  • Dentist
  • Dermatology
  • Developmental Pediatrician
  • Dietician
  • Endocrinology
  • ENT
  • Gastroenterology
  • Genetics
  • Guardianship
  • Occupational therapist
  • Ophthalmology
  • Orthopedics
  • Physical therapist
  • Pulmonology
  • Speech Therapist
  • Trisomy 21 Research Foundation (Nutrivene)
  • More providers will be added - stay tuned!


The Down Syndrome Clinic for Children is FREE and will be held at Orlando Health's Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families at 601 W. Michigan Street in Orlando on Saturday, March 9th 9 am to 12:30 pm. Space is limited.


Click on the image above to register.

Presione aquí para información en Español

Tendremos voluntarios disponibles si necesitas ayuda en traducción.

Summer Scholarships

Because of a very successful Tour of Champions Bowl-A-Thon, The FOUNDATION is heating up with more SUMMER scholarship opportunities!


Looking for dance classes? Maybe you are interested in scuba lessons?

Interested in Sleep Away Camp?

Need help with speech or ABA therapy?

Thinking about driving classes?

The sky is the limit!

We ask YOU to pick what your interest is and apply for a scholarship!


Click on the image below and check out all of the opportunities that await you!

All documentation must be received by Friday, April 12, 2024.

Award letters will be sent by Monday, April 22, 2024.

LEAP - Learning Enrichment Academic Program

In LEAP, we believe that every child is unique and learns at their own pace. We provide a safe and nurturing environment for children to explore their interests and expand their knowledge. Our program is designed to help children develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving strategies, and effective communication. We also offer therapy support for children who require additional assistance in specific areas. LEAP is for kindergarten through fifth grade (elementary-aged children).


Joining LEAP is a great opportunity for families to connect with other families who share similar goals and values. Our program promotes early learning, inclusion, friendship and SUCCESS. We are committed to helping every child reach their full potential and achieve academic and developmental success. Come join us and take the first step towards a brighter future for your child!


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

Lucky Littles (birth to age eight)

SPRING HAS SPRUNG! Join us on Wednesday, March 13th, for a gathering with our Lucky Littles (members aged from birth to eight) and their families at Minnehaha Park in Maitland from 11 am to 1 pm.


Let's spend a delightful afternoon at the playground and park with friends! Siblings are also welcome to join. We'll start by enjoying a storybook session all about spring, focusing on vocabulary related to animal names, colors, and seasons. Afterward, we'll stroll along the boardwalk and park to observe signs of spring. Once back at the playground, we can catch up while the children have a great time! Special thanks to Lucky Littles Coordinator, Alissa Poulson, for her help in organizing this fantastic gathering!


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

World Down Syndrome Day and The Magic of Inclusion

Let's celebrate the Magic of INCLUSION!



We are excited to have over 350 members and teachers join The FOUNDATION to celebrate the MAGIC OF INCLUSION on World Down Syndrome Day, Thursday, March 21st, at the Kia Center as the Orlando Magic take on the New Orleans Pelicans.


The celebration includes The FOUNDATION's VIP pre-game event* (first 300 members to sign up) at the Michelob Ultra Lounge (at the Kia Center) from 5:00 pm-6:30 pm, the game (7 pm tip-off), 50 members on the court for a HIGH-FIVE halftime experience, a group photo on the court at the end of the game and the OPPORTUNITY for our members to shoot a free throw after the picture. It will be a night to remember! 


At halftime, we will also recognize the Inclusion Champion of the Year as part of our Down Syndrome Partners in Education Program.  


The block of tickets for the members is SOLD OUT. If you would like to join the event and post-game activities, you can purchase discounted tickets. While these tickets will not be in The FOUNDATION's block of seats, you will be able to join the group photo on court and shoot some free throws at the end of the game . There is also a waitlist, however, this is not guaranteed.


Click here for more information and to buy your tickets today! (Parking is not included.)

Let's look back at last year's event - we have so much to celebrate on

World Down Syndrome Day! 

Congratulations to our 2024 Champion of Inclusion Nominees!

Click here to learn more about each nominee.

Do You Have A Minute?

Our upcoming "Do You Have a Minute" session on March 26th will focus on ABLE United Accounts. ABLE accounts provide Florida families with a beneficial method to save and support their loved ones while maintaining any federal benefits. Join us to explore the benefits, eligibility criteria, functionality, and a Q&A session with the ABLE United team.


Families will be able to meet with ABLE United representatives in breakout rooms to start and expedite their new ABLE United account. Plus all new accounts will receive $50 by using the code DSFF50!


This topic is applicable for ALL ages. Join us and learn why your son/daughter should have an ABLE account and why it's never too early to get started. 


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

ABLE United - Sign up and receive $50!

Have you opened your ABLE United account yet? Now’s your chance!


Now until 3/31, anyone who completes enrollment online and uses the promo code “DSFF50” will receive $50 in their new account.

Open an account now: ableunited.com.

Lucky Littles & Young Explorers Meet-Up

Join the Lucky Littles (ages 0 to 8) and Young Explorers (1st to 6th grade) and their families for a wild day at Brevard Zoo on Saturday, April 6th!


We will kick off the fun at 10 am, 10:30 am, and 11 am - just pick your preferred time when you register.


Get ready for a wild time with over 900 animals from all around the globe, from Florida to Australia! Admission ($10 for adults, $5 for kids aged 3 to 17) includes zoo entry and a train ride for all attendees! Little ones under three get in free - let's make memories!


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

T21 Social Network (18+)

Join the epic adventure with Morganne for a workout session in the great outdoors at Mead Gardens, celebrating Earth Day in April! Let's get moving and grooving together!


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

Dad's Night Out

Swing by Grafton Street Pub & Crown Alley in Lake Mary on Thursday, April 11th at 7 pm for Dad's Night Out! Let's chow down, shoot the breeze, and bond with fellow dads.


Your meal gets a sweet $15 discount from The FOUNDATION. See you there!


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

iCan! Surf is BACK!

iCan! Surf is back with a splash! We are thrilled to launch our new surfing season. No experience is necessary (all ages are welcome!).


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

2024 iCan! Bike Camp - Register TODAY!

Are you ready to help your son/daughter pedal towards fun, friendship, and freedom? Registration for our 13th Annual iCan! Bike Camp is now OPEN!


iCan! Bike Camp provides individuals with Down syndrome and ANYONE over the age of eight (8) who has not yet learned to ride a two-wheel bicycle the opportunity to gain this vital skill. Incredibly, 80% of the participants finish the 5-day camp able to ride two-wheel bike.


 Learning to ride a two-wheel bicycle has many benefits such as:


  • Exercises cardiovascular muscles
  • Builds muscle mass 
  • Relieves stress 
  • Strengthens emotional wellness
  • Positive change in family dynamics
  • Independent transportation 
  •  And many more!


Join us as we continue to create an avenue to independence for the participants by helping riders gain assurance, and self-confidence and giving them a gateway to become active members in their community.


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

Check out our 2023 iCan! Bike Camp recap below!

iCan! Work

The FOUNDATION is dedicated to nurturing a culture centered around learning and growth! Join our iCan! Work initiative, carefully crafted to equip your son/daughter with the necessary tools and resources for both personal and professional development. Gain access to success coaches, as well as engaging training and development sessions aimed at enhancing their skills and knowledge.

Click here to apply
Click here to apply

Self Advocacy Camp

Self-advocacy training aims to equip individuals with the skills to effectively communicate their strengths, objectives, and requirements when seeking admission to higher education institutions or prospective employers.


Click on the image below for more information and to register.

Important imformation: Attendance is mandatory for those interested in participating in the summer OJT program. Registration with VR is a prerequisite, and attendance on all four days is compulsory.

Click here for more information and to register
Orlando Magic

Last chance to be part of the Orlando Magic excitement this season!


Are you 18 years or older with Down syndrome?

Did you know that you can work at the Orlando Magic games and get paid?!

When: March- April 2024

Time: Various times

Location: Kia Center (Amway Arena)

(Click on the link below to see the Orlando Magic's upcoming dates and times)


iCan! Work members can get paid $12 an hour.

You will be helping prep snacks and deliver food to the Club and VIP level.

If you are interested in working at the Kia Center (Amway Arena) and earning a paycheck please reach out to Caroline today: caroline.sanchez@dsfflorida.org.

Click here for more information and to register

Volunteers Needed

Want to know what it takes for your loved one to have a job in the future? Consider becoming a volunteer for the iCan! Work program with The FOUNDATION!


This is an incredible opportunity to make a difference and have a great time volunteering!


By joining our amazing group of volunteers, you will be contributing to the success of this program and making a positive impact!


We look forward to having you join us and becoming a part of something truly magical!


Anyone 18 years old or older can volunteer and help our iCan! Work program at the Kia Center (Amway Arena)! (This includes members with T21 who are 18+ and not yet part of the iCan! Work program - you can volunteer with a family member).


This is a great way to keep your membership with

The FOUNDATION active.


Click here to get started.

Virtual Social Groups

ALL AGES ARE WELCOME!


Virtual Zumba with Elyse


When: Every Tuesday

Time: 4 pm-5pm

Zoom Information Will Be Posted to Our Private Facebook Page

Elyse Mundelein will be teaching a virtual Zumba class! No experience needed, just get ready to dance and have fun!


Upcoming dates:

  • Tuesday, March 12
  • Tuesday, March 19
  • Tuesday, March 26

Club for middle and high-school



Virtual Club 321


When: Every Wednesday

Time: 4 pm-5 pm

Zoom Information Will Be Posted to Our Private Facebook Page

This is a great opportunity to socialize, engage, and connect with each other. We'll have something new and different each week!


Upcoming dates:


  • Wednesday, March 13-Safety in the kitchen
  • Wednesday, March 20-Grocery List/Meal Plan
  • Wednesday, March 27-Following a recipe and Cooking Together

Young adults 18+



T21 Social Network (18+)


When: Every Thursday

Time: 4 pm-5 pm

Zoom Information Will Be Posted to Our Private Facebook Page

This is a great opportunity for our adult group to socialize, engage, and connect with each other. We'll have something new and different each week!


Upcoming dates:


  • Thursday, March 7-Kitchen Vocabulary and Safety in the kitchen
  • Thursday, March 14-Grocery List/ Meal Plan
  • Thursday, March 21- Canceled for 3/21
  • Thursday, March 28- Following a recipe and Cooking together
Don't miss an event!
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You can also visit our website www.DSFFlorida.org
Looking forward to seeing YOU!
For more information about our online programming:
follow our private Facebook page, Meetup, or email

Educational Corner

Click here for more resources for your upcoming IEP meeting

Thank you to our sponsors

for making all of these events possible!

Let's get social!

Follow us on social media for more information and to stay up-to-date on our upcoming events.

Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida www.dsfflorida.org
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