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Happy New Year!

Let's get to work on raising $500,000 by 2/18/24!

Here's how:

Sunday, February 18, 2024

1:30pm - 4:00pm

Boardwalk Bowl Entertainment Center 

10749 East Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32817

For more information about forming a team or to see what other fun prizes are in store click here.

If you are interested in joining

the 2024 Tour of Champions bowling committee,

please email Camille.

Need more help? Click on the links below for our tutorial videos!

• How to start a Tour of Champions Bowl-a-Thon team
• How to send custom team fundraising emails
• How to link your Facebook fundraising
• How to set-up text giving

Want a social media highlight reel to promote your bowling team?

Click here to see our latest reel!

Start the new year with your choice

of two fun-filled family packages!

Four tickets for one round of 18 holes of mini-golf. at Pirates Cove Adventure or 2 tickets to Andretti Indoor Karting & Games.

These packages are perfect for families looking for a day of excitement and adventure:

• If you choose Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, you'll get to experience a swashbuckling adventure on their mini-golf course, complete with pirate-themed obstacles and decorations.

• For families looking for a faster pace, the Andretti Indoor Karting & Games package is sure to deliver. The indoor karting track offers thrilling twists and turns that will have everyone on the edge of their seat. And when it's time to take a break, the arcade and game room offer endless hours of fun for the whole family. These 2 tickets include 7D Xperience, laser tag, and 2 $10 game cards.

No matter which package you choose, you're sure to make lasting memories with your loved ones!

Why not start the new year off right with one of these exciting family packages? Get started TODAY!

• Click here to register your team

• Click here to donate to a team



• Click here for more information about our Tour of Champions Bowl-a-Thon

Thank you for kicking off the holiday season with us at our

2023 Winter Wonderland - It's a Wonderful Life! Holiday Party

Calling all Dads!

Get ready to enjoy a thrilling game of ice hockey with the Orlando Solar Bears as they take on The Wheeling Nailers from West Virginia. This promises to be an exciting event as you join in to cheer on your favorite team.

Dads, this is your chance to have a night out with (or without!) your children and connect with other dads. The FOUNDATION has got you covered by paying $15 of the $20 ticket cost. Members only have to pay $5 per ticket.



Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled night with our amazing group of dads!

For those who need financial assistance, scholarships are available - simply email your questions to robin.longley@dsfflorida.org.

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

We want to hear your ideas!



The FOUNDATION has awarded more than $1.4 MILLION in scholarships to give our members the opportunities and resources they need to succeed in life. We need YOUR HELP to continue to offer these EXTRAordinary opportunities.

Interested in joining our 2024 Tour of Champions Bowl-A-Thon planning committee?

Click on the link below to email Camille Gardiner.

The next planning meeting is coming up!

Don't miss YOUR chance to join us via Zoom.

Members of The FOUNDATION, join us for a virtual orientation! During this session, you will learn about our goals for 2024, new programs and program updates, scholarships, and how to maximize your FOUNDATION membership! 

Attending an orientation session is required for those who will be applying for any of our FOUNDATION scholarships.

In the orientation, you'll learn about the programs and scholarships we offer and all the different ways you can get involved! Even if you don't apply for scholarships with The FOUNDATION, this orientation will be beneficial to you! Please be sure to have your camera on for the session so we can verify your attendance and participation. We cannot wait to see you!

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

Club 321 and T21 Social Network are joining forces this month (Friday, January 19th from 6-9 pm) as we gear up for a fun evening of bowling! Get ready for a great drop-off event! Your loved one can join us for an evening of fun, laughter, and maybe even a few strikes while you take the evening off! This is an amazing opportunity for our members to catch up with old friends and even make new friends while they rock and bowl.

The goal of this program is to develop skills for greater independence in the community while doing something they enjoy. Every event is designed with inclusion and personal growth in mind. So....make sure they know their shoe size, have a debit or credit card to buy snacks (cash is ok too, but many places are cashless post-Covid so a prepaid credit card is a great option), and are ready to bowl! Volunteers will be on hand to help and have fun!

Let's roll into the new year with BIG GOALS for our loved ones! 

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

The Down Syndrome Clinic for Adults is jointly hosted by the Down Syndrome Foundation and Orlando Health. The clinic is designed for adults ages 17 +. All participants will have a hearing evaluation by an audiologist and will receive a list of local medical providers.

The following specialists will be available for a consultation:

• Cardiology
• Dentist
• Dermatology
• Dietician
• Endocrinology
• Guardianship
• Gynecology
• Neuropsychology
• Occupational therapist
• Physical therapist
• Pulmonology
• More providers will be added - stay tuned!

We will have community partners joining us to share valuable information and resources. Currently, the following have confirmed their participation:



• Best Buddies
• Center for Independent Living
• Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities
• OCA
• UCF Counseling Center
• UCF Inclusive Education Services

The Down Syndrome Clinic for Adults is FREE and will be held at the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families at 601 W. Michigan Street in Orlando on Saturday, January 20th from 9 am to 12:30 pm. Space is limited.

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

Get ready for your Young Explorer to unleash their inner ninja as they navigate through a series of exciting challenges designed to test your physical and mental agility. They'll have the opportunity to crawl, climb, jump, and swing their way through a variety of obstacles, all while learning key ninja skills such as balance, coordination, focus, and determination.



Gather your little ninjas and come join us for an unforgettable afternoon of adventure and excitement on Saturday, January 20th from 3 pm to 5 pm at Obstacle Ninja Academy at 2120 33rd Street in Orlando.

Siblings are welcome to join in the fun! Bring the whole family along and see who can conquer the ninja course first!

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

Moms, are you ready for a night out?

Join us on Friday, January 26th at 7 pm for a special event just for you! We will be playing games, including the popular dice game Bunco, and having a potluck dinner. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet other moms and have some fun while enjoying some delicious food.

The event will take place at Tina Mundelein's home located in East Orlando near UCF. We would like to extend a huge thank you to Tina for kindly hosting our January Moms Night Out. Once you have registered, we will send you the exact address.

To make this event a success, we kindly ask that you bring a dish to share with all of the other moms. Whether it's your famous macaroni and cheese or a delicious dessert, we can't wait to see what you bring!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to unwind and connect with other moms. Register now for our Moms Night Out!

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

Join us on Saturday, January 27th from 11 am to 4 pm for our 2024 Tour of Champions Fundraiser at Burger Fi! Just mention you are supporting the "Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida" when you order in person or online and 20% of your purchase will go back to The FOUNDATION! Burger Fi is located at 4100 North Alafaya Trail, Suite 125, Orlando.

Sunday, January 28th

1 pm - 3 pm

721 W New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Come learn more about the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida and how we can support you and your family. Meeting other families on the same journey will be life-changing at our "Welcome Baby! Welcome Family!" Brunch!

This program is open to all families with a member from birth to age two.

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

Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, is a scientific approach to understanding and changing behavior. At our January meeting, on Tuesday, January 30th, the Step by Step Behavior Team (Ali and Jordan Holt) will be discussing the basics of ABA, including its trajectory, principles, and techniques. They will also be answering any questions you may have about this important approach.

Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or just curious about ABA, we welcome you to join us for an informative and engaging discussion.

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

Thanks to YOUR successful efforts during #GivingTuesday and our Tour of Champions Bowl-A-Thon, we are able to add new programs for our members each year. We are excited to announce that in January 2024 we will launch The FOUNDATION PEERS Program. 

Developed at UCLA, this is an evidence-based program that uses strategies and tools for SUCCESS in social settings. PEERS, which stands for Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills, is an innovative and dynamic program designed to empower individuals with unique abilities. We will offer an inaugural group in January for adults (18 and up.) 

The PEERS program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of social skills. Through engaging group sessions, interactive role-playing exercises, and real-life practice opportunities, participants gain the confidence and know-how to navigate social situations with ease.



Topics the program will cover include: 

• Conversational Skills
• Finding a Source of Friends
• Electronic Communication
• Appropriate Use of Humor
• Handling Disagreements
• Handling Bullying
• Dating Etiquette

Young adulthood is a crucial time for social development, and acquiring effective social skills is integral to building meaningful relationships. The PEERS program is tailored to address the distinctive challenges faced by young adults with unique abilities, including navigating the complexities of social interactions both online and offline.

By participating in PEERS, your loved one will have the opportunity to develop and strengthen their social skills in a structured and supportive setting.

Classes will be held from 9 am -12 pm at the Downtown UCF Campus.

The dates are:

• January 16, 23, 30
• February 6, 13, 20, 27
• March 5, 12, 26
• April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• May 7

Cost: $150 for registration, but participants will receive a gift card back at the end of the program based on attendance.



- Make 16 out of 16 sessions, get $150 back.

- Make 15 out of 15 sessions, get $125 back.

Click here to learn more about PEERS.

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 diversity, inclusion, and a sense of community. 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.

SAVE THE DATE! March 4-March 9.



If you are looking for a different approach to find different results, try the Neurodevelopmental Appcoah with Kay Ness - don’t forget to say hi to Keena!

Kay's approach to addressing learning and developmental problems involves conducting a thorough developmental analysis to identify the root cause of the problem. This approach is based on the concept of neuroplasticity, which means that the brain has the ability to change and adapt with the right stimulation. As such, Kay is able to provide the right kind of stimulation to help her clients overcome their learning and developmental challenges.

Additionally, Kay offers an accelerated academic program to help children catch up if they are behind. With her unique approach, Kay provides hope to children and adults who may have thought that their learning and developmental problems were permanent.

Click on the image below for more information and to apply for a scholarship.

Let's celebrate the Magic of INCLUSION!

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 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 and a night to remember! (Parking not included.)

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

The $10 tickets are for members and their immediate family (parents and siblings) ONLY. Tickets purchased for extended family, friends, or teachers will not be in the same section as The FOUNDATION member's block. (Scholarships are available for members.) 

Click here for more information and to buy your tickets today!

The FOUNDATION is committed to fostering a culture of learning and development! Our iCan! Work program is designed to provide the tools and resources needed to grow both personally and professionally. You will have access to success coaches as well as training and development sessions to help you enhance your skills and knowledge.

Our program is now looking for members to join our Spring 2024 Orlando Health Cohort. Work at a location near YOU in the department of your choosing (Food and Nutrition, Environmental Service, Transportation & Equipment, and Guest Services).

This is a 12-week PAID internship. Apply now for more information.

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: January - 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)

You must attend a minimum of 16 games to be paid $12/hr.

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 Center) and earning a paycheck please reach out to Caroline today at caroline.sanchez@dsfflorida.org.

Thank you for considering 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 Center)! (This includes members with T21 who are 18+ and cannot commit to 16 games - 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.

Help us celebrate the MAGIC OF INCLUSION

by nominating your champion!

This is your opportunity to honor that special person in your child's life who has provided them with INCLUSION opportunities. Each nominee will be celebrated with a certificate for their efforts in inclusion in the school setting. All nominations will be reviewed by a panel of Down Syndrome Partners of Education (DSPIE) representatives, community judges, and FOUNDATION employees to vote and award the Inclusion Champion of the Year!  

The winner of Inclusion Champion of the Year, their principal, the DSPIE representative from their school district, the student who the inclusion nomination is about, and one of their parents will be honored on March 21, 2024, at the Orlando Magic vs. New England Pelicans during halftime show. The winner will also receive a cash award of $321 and a celebration at their school for their fantastic dedication to all students!

All nominees need to be the CURRENT school year employee (2023-2024). Click here to nominate your Inclusion Champion.

*Our first ten (10) nominees will receive a FREE ticket to the game.

*The first five (5) FOUNDATION members to nominate a CHAMPION will be able to participate in the halftime "High-Five Halftime Experience" (To participate you must have a ticket to the game.) Limit one "High-Five" experience per family.

*All nominees will be invited to the VIP FOUNDATION PRE-GAME EVENT @5pm. 

*Deadline for nominations: February 23, 2024