DSAWM

Independent Living Skills
2026-03-02 17:00 - 18:00, 2026-03-09 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Detroit) | Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, 160 68th St SW Ste. 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49548, United States
This series of workshops for members aged 14 years and older will focus on a variety of skills one needs to work towards independence. We will have Independent Living Skills every Monday from 5pm-6pm before Shape Up.

Here is the zoom link if you are unable to participate in person: https://zoom.us/j/93801138656?pwd=[REDACTED] This zoom link will be the same for every week.

Please register HERE if you are interested in participating!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any suggestions for topics or if you have any questions.

Shape Up
2026-03-02 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-09 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
Shape Up is a fun and exciting health program for members 14 and older. We will meet on Mondays from 6pm-7:30pm in the SOMI Athlete Hub. There will be 45 minutes of nutrition education and 45 minutes of exercise.

Here is the zoom link if you are unable to participate in person: https://zoom.us/j/94784309703?pwd=[REDACTED] This zoom link will be the same for every week.

Please register HERE if you are interested in participating!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Young Athletes
2026-03-03 17:30 - 18:15, 2026-03-10 17:30 - 18:15, 2026-03-17 17:30 - 18:15 | Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
Join DSAWM, Autism Support of Kent County, and Special Olympics in our Young Athletes program. This program will be on Tuesdays from 5:30pm-6:15pm in the SOMI Auxiliary Gym. Young Athletes is a sport play program designed for members aged 2-7. Participants will be introduced to the basics of sports and start to build their gross motor skills for future sports participation. Young Athletes also helps to build cognitive and social skills. Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Please complete 2 quick registrations if you would like to participate:

https://dsawm.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/dsawm/eventRegistration.jsp?event=2444&

and

https://forms.gle/NHNcUkVcPzBUao7V6

Developmental Sports
2026-03-03 18:15 - 19:00, 2026-03-10 18:15 - 19:00, 2026-03-17 18:15 - 19:00 | Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
Join DSAWM, Autism Support of Kent County, and Special Olympics in our Developmental Sports program. This program will be on Tuesdays from 6:15pm-7:00pm in the SOMI Auxiliary Gym. Developmental Sports is a program designed to teach members aged 8-13 how to participate in a team sport. Participants will be introduced to the basics of sports and start to develop the skills necessary to play as a team. Developmental Sports will also help build cognitive and social skills and allow kids to see the possibilities in their athletic careers. Sports will be repeated multiple times throughout the session to help develop and strengthen skills. Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Please complete 2 quick registrations if you would like to participate:

https://dsawm.app.neoncrm.com/eventReg.jsp?event=2445&

and

https://forms.gle/2WrMJVp3cbEy6zp69

Dance for Teens and Adults
2026-03-04 17:30 - 18:30, 2026-03-11 17:30 - 18:30, 2026-03-18 17:30 - 18:30 | Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
Join our Dance program with Molly from Arts in Motion and our intern Molly! This is an adaptive program for all of our teens and adult members aged 13 and older. We stretch, dance, and play percussion instruments while we listen to participant-selected music! Here is the zoom link if you are unable to participate in person: https://zoom.us/j/93780199670?pwd=[REDACTED] This zoom link will be the same for every week.

Please register HERE if you are interested in participating!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Baby Sign Language
2026-03-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, 160 68th St SW Ste. 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49548, United States
DSAWM is partnering with Building Blocks Therapy Services to provide a 5-week Baby Sign Language program for members aged 0-5! The program will be Thursdays from 2:00pm-3:00pm in the DSAWM playroom (160 68th St. SW Suite 110 Grand Rapids, MI 49548) and it will be led by a Speech Language Pathologist. The curriculum is adapted to support the unique motor, sensory, and communication needs of young children with Down syndrome. Each session offers predictable routines, functional signs, and hands-on opportunities for families to practice together.

Please register HERE if you are interested in participating!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions!

Talent Show Rehearsal/Ensayo del Show de Talentos
2026-03-05 16:15 - 17:45, 2026-03-12 18:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-19 16:15 - 17:45 | Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
The Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan and Artists Creating Together proudly present a talent show featuring YOU!

In this class, participants will fine-tune a performance of their choice under the mentorship of a professional teaching artist. Throughout the session participants will practice their routine, receive constructive feedback from the instructor and peers, learn vocal and physical warmups and other activities to strengthen performance techniques. Building community and having fun will be a highlight of the class. Performers will showcase their hard work in a final presentation for friends and family.

How to participate:

Performers with disabilities ages 16+ are invited to register.

Applicants must indicate the talent they wish to showcase when applying.

Performers will provide any costume pieces, props and audio files needed for their routine.

Classes will take place at the Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center located at 160 68 St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548

All rehearsal times are mandatory:

Thursday, Mar 5, 4:15-5:45p at the Special Olympics Building

Thursday, Mar 12, 6:00-7:30p at the Special Olympics Building

Thursday, Mar 19, 4:15-5:45p at the Special Olympics Building

Wednesday, Mar 25, 6:00-8:00p at the Special Olympics Building

Thursday, Mar 26, 4:30pm performer arrival, 5-7p Showcase and Reception at the Special Olympics Building

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan y Artists Creating Together presentan con orgullo un show de talentos.

En esta clase, los participantes perfeccionarán una presentación de su elección bajo la mentoría de un artista docente profesional. A lo largo de la sesión, los participantes practicarán su rutina, recibirán comentarios constructivos del instructor y de sus compañeros, aprenderán calentamientos vocales y físicos, y realizarán otras actividades para fortalecer sus técnicas de presentación. Crear comunidad y divertirse será una parte destacada de la clase. Los participantes presentarán su arduo trabajo en una presentación final para amigos y familiares.

Cómo participar:

Se invita a inscribirse a participantes con discapacidades de 16 años o más.

Los solicitantes deben indicar el talento que desean presentar al momento de aplicar.

Los participantes deberán proporcionar cualquier vestuario, accesorios y archivos de audio necesarios para su rutina.

Las clases se llevarán a cabo en el Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, ubicado en 160 68 St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548.

Todos los horarios de ensayo son obligatorios:

Jueves 5 de marzo, 4:15–5:45 p. m., en el edificio de Special Olympics

Jueves 12 de marzo, 6:00–7:30 p. m., en el edificio de Special Olympics

Jueves 19 de marzo, 4:15–5:45 p. m., en el edificio de Special Olympics

Miércoles 25 de marzo, 6:00–8:00 p. m., en el edificio de Special Olympics

Jueves 26 de marzo, llegada de los participantes a las 4:30 p. m.; 5:00–7:00 p. m., Presentación y Recepción en el edificio de Special Olympics

Si tiene alguna pregunta, envíe un correo electrónico a program@dsawm.org

Grand Rapids Cooking Capers
2026-03-05 18:00 - 19:30 | Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center, 160 68th St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
Grand Rapids Cooking Capers is a program led by GVSU nutrition students to teach independence in the kitchen for members 12 and older (members 12-15 must have a guardian present). We work on goals and learn kitchen safety, measurements, and more! We cook a delicious 3 course meal each week and enjoy socializing with others. Registrations are required so that we can make sure to accommodate all food allergies and purchase the correct amount of groceries.

Please register HERE if you are interested in participating!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Lakeshore Martial Arts
2026-03-06 17:00 - 18:00, 2026-03-13 17:00 - 18:00 | Fuzion Skillz, 3006 West Shore Dr. Suite 150, Holland, Michigan, 49424, United States
DSAWM is partnering with Fuzion Skillz to provide a martial arts class for members aged 8 and older! This class will be on Fridays from 5:00pm-6:00pm at the Fuzion Skillz studio (3006 West Shore Dr. Suite 150, Holland MI 49424)! It is designed to be a joyful, confidence-building experience where everyone can move, grow, and succeed at their own pace. Through creative drills, obstacle courses, and simple martial arts techniques, students will develop balance, coordination, speed, and flexibility in a way that feels like fun rather than exercise. Each activity is carefully adapted to support unique learning styles, helping improve muscle tone, posture, focus, and body awareness while also strengthening listening skills and emotional regulation. Most importantly, the class creates a safe, encouraging environment where everyone is celebrated, friendships grow, and students discover just how strong, capable, and proud they can be.

Please register HERE if you are interested in participating!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Buddy Up Tennis
2026-03-07 10:15 - 11:45, 2026-03-14 10:15 - 11:45 | MVP Athletic Club, 115 Crahen Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, United States
Buddy Up Tennis is a 90-minute tennis and fitness program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 5+ who we call our Athletes. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No tennis experience required!

New Athletes please complete the Buddy Up Tennis Athlete Application and Release Form, click HERE for registration, and sign up on Sign Up Genius.

Returning Athletes please click HERE for registration and sign up on Sign Up Genius.

New Buddies please complete the Buddy Up Tennis Buddy Application and Release, click HERE to complete your Background Check/DSAWM Volunteer Form, and sign up on Sign Up Genius.

Returning Buddies please sign up on Sign Up Genius.

Please email GrandRapidsTennis@buforlife.org if you have any questions.

World Down Syndrome Day Lakeshore Gathering
2026-03-07 17:00 - 19:00 | Grand Fun!, 1051 Jackson St., Grand Haven, Michigan, 49417, United States
DSAWM is excited to host a Lakeshore gathering at Grand Fun in Grand Haven on March 7th from 5:00–7:00pm! Come enjoy bowling, arcade games, pizza, and pop while spending time with other DSAWM families and celebrating World Down Syndrome Day. DSAWM will cover the cost of games, bowling, and food. All families are welcome so we hope you’ll join us for a great night out!

Please register HERE if you are interested in attending!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions!

Book Club
2026-03-10 18:00 - 19:00 | Chapbook Cafe at Schuler Books, 2660 28th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49512, United States
Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the Month

6:00pm-7:00pm

Schuler Books

Ages 16+

Teens and adults with Down syndrome are invited to join Bobbi for Book Club at Schuler Books on 28th Street. Participants in Book Club will get the chance to read fun books with a group of their peers. After completing a book, members will be invited to a movie night where they will watch a film based on the book they read. All reading levels are welcome. Book Club will meet in the Chapbook Café.

Please email program@dsawm.org with any questions.

Kalamazoo World Down Syndrome Day Gathering
2026-03-14 17:00 - 19:00 | Ripple Effects Inclusion Center, 2255 W Centre Avenue, Portage, Michigan, 49024, United States
Come celebrate and connect with the community at our World Down Syndrome Day Gathering for Kalamazoo area families at Ripple Effects Inclusion Center! Ripple Effects is an inclusive facility that has space and activities for families of all ages and stages. It is a space for entire families to get to know and support each other no matter what stage of life they are in. DSAWM will provide food! You may also bring your own food if you have unique needs or preferences.

Please register HERE if you are interested in attending!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions or suggestions for food.

Self Advocate Board Meeting
2026-03-16 17:00 - 18:00 | DSAWM Board Room, 160 68th St SW Suite 110, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49548, United States

Friends Just Like Me
2026-03-16 17:00 - 19:00 | Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is hosting DSAWM for another Friends Just Like Me event on March 16th from 5pm-7pm. Come celebrate World Down Syndrome Day with us by wearing your mismatched socks and DSAWM gear! It will be a night of free play at the Museum after hours so that our members and families will have full access to the space! Pizza will be provided.

Please register HERE if you are interested in attending.

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Lakeshore Dance
2026-03-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Avenue, Grand Haven, Michigan, 49417, United States
Join us for our monthly Dance program with Molly from Arts in Motion at the Loutit District Library, typically held on the third Monday of each month from 6:00pm-7:00pm! This adaptive program is open to members age 6 and older. We’ll stretch, dance, and play fun percussion instruments while listening to participant-selected music! Occasionally, room availability at the library may require us to shift the date or time, and email updates will be sent whenever changes are needed.

Please register HERE if you would like to participate!

Please email program@dsawm.org if you have any questions.

Grand Rapids Gold
2026-03-17 19:00 - 21:00 | Van Andel Arena, 130 W Fulton St, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49503, United States
The Grand Rapids Gold basketball team is donating free tickets for DSAWM members for their game on March 17th at 7pm! Here is the link if you would like tickets: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Downsyndrome75

There is a limit of 6 tickets per group. When getting tickets, it will show a cost initially but the balance will go to zero once you check out. Please email admin@dsawm.org if you have any questions.
