Ds Connections Nw - Down Syndrome Connections Northwest

Alyssa's Teen & Young Adult Meetup in Spokane Valley - November Meetup
2025-11-19 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Stepping Stones Pediatric Therapy Center, 15920 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA, 99216, United States
🎬 Alyssa & Chad’s Connect Group — Movie Night! 🍿
Join us for a cozy evening in the Spokane Valley!
📅 Tuesday, November 19
🕕 6:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Stepping Stones Pediatric Therapy
15920 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
We’ll be watching Finding Dory! Participants are encouraged to come in their pajamas and bring a pillow and/or blanket for extra comfort. 💤
Snacks and drinks will be provided.
Please register so we know you’re coming — we can’t wait to see you there! 💙
PS This will be Alyssa and Chad’s last group of the year.

DOMA Cafe - DsCNW Parent Connect
2025-11-09 15:00 - 17:00 | DOMA Cafe, 3091 N Atlas Road, Coeur d'Alene, ID
DOMA Parent Connect EventSunday, November 9 | 3:00 – 5:00 PMDOMA Café | 3091 N. Atlas Rd, Coeur d’Alene, ID
Join us for a warm and welcoming afternoon celebrating and connecting parents raising children or adults with Down syndrome. Enjoy a specialty drink from DOMA and a delicious charcuterie spread while creating your own simmer spice jar to take home and fill your space with cozy holiday scents.
We will also have Jason Roesler with C1 Wealth Management joining us in an informal setting to answer financial questions on topics such as:

The importance of wills and estate planning
529A – ABLE Accounts
Financial limits and rules to be aware of
Special Needs Trusts

Jason is also a parent of a child with Down syndrome and brings both professional expertise and personal experience to the conversation.
Please take a moment to thank DOMA for generously donating the use of their beautiful café to DsCNW.
Register by Sunday, November 2.Cost: $3 per person to reserve your spot.

Alyssa's Teen & Young Adult Meetup in Spokane Valley - October Meetup
2025-10-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Stepping Stones Pediatric Therapy Center, 15920 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA, 99216, United States
Let’s enjoy music, fun, laughter, smiles and all that Alyssa and Chad can dream up. The DsConnectionsNW teem and young adult group in the Spokane Valley is all about making new friends, finding out what you like to do, and learning new skills. You won’t want to miss a thing!

Sweet Treats at The Little Gym
2025-10-04 17:00 - 19:00 | The Little Gym of Post Falls, 9044 W Prairie Ave Suite 103, Post Falls, ID, 83854, United States
🍭🍪 Join Us for “Sweet Treats”! 🎉✨ A World Down Syndrome Awareness Month Celebration ✨
📅 Saturday, October 4th⏰ 5:00–7:00 PM📍 The Little Gym, Post Falls
Bring the whole family for an evening filled with treats, fun, and connection! 💙💛 This free event is open to all ages—whether you’re catching up with old friends or making new ones, there’s something for everyone! 🎶🍰🎈
Please register for this fun and FREE event.

Zion's Game Night
2025-09-30 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-05-27 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-04-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Ds Connections Northwest, 3839 W. Prairie Ave, Hayden, 83835, United States
Let’s get together! Teen/Young Adults (ages 15-35) are you ready for a wonderful time? There will be great music, snacks, beverages and best of all – Friends & Fun. You won’t want to miss this ’cause Zion puts on quite a evening.

Step Up Walk 2025 - Quad Cities
2025-09-28 11:00 - 13:00 | Genesee Park, Corner of Walnut and Laurel, Genesee, ID, 83832
Join us for a day of celebration with our Down syndrome community!
We’ll kick things off with our walk, then enjoy a delicious lunch together—brats, hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be waiting for you.
DJ Olie will be spinning everyone’s favorite tunes to keep the energy high and the fun going strong.
Bring your friends, family, and big smiles—come celebrate with us!
For more info, click here.
REGISTER ONLINE BY SEPTEMBER 5 FOR ONE OF THESE WALK OPTIONS:
— NO T-SHIRT OPTION: Just come and walk and have lunch with us! – FREE
OR
— T-SHIRT AND LUNCH OPTION – $20
Don’t miss out! Register today!
T-shirt registration is free for individuals with Down syndrome when accompanied by a paid adult registration.
*T-shirts, and t-shirt sizes guaranteed with registrations made by September 13th, 2025. But, we ordered a few extra shirts so register now, before size choices are no longer available.*
*Online registration stays open through 5pm, September 24th 2025. Registration opens again (in person) at 11am the morning of the Walk!*

Step Up for Down syndrome Walk
2025-09-20 09:00 - 13:00 | Discovery Playground, 2426 N Discovery Pl, Spokane Valley, WA, 99216
We are thrilled to announce that the 17th Annual Inland NW Step UP for Down Syndrome Walk will take place in partnership with Valleyfest in Spokane Valley, WA, on September 20, 2025!

2025 Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk is on!

As our community continues to grow, so does the need for our programs serving families in Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington. The Step UP for Ds Walk is our flagship fundraising event, and we are excited to see where this year’s event will take us. Your support, as well as the support of businesses and organizations based in Washington and Idaho, enable us to continue offering vital programs and events, empowering families and individuals with Down syndrome.

DsCNW Presents
2025 Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Discovery Playground
2426 N Discovery Pl, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
9am-1pm
Registration is $25 until July 1st, then the price increases
REGISTER TODAY! Join the fun!
– In Person OR Virtual Walk options-
REGISTER HERE!
Thanks to You, We’re Making a Difference!
Because of your support, Ds Connections NW continues to provide vital resources, advocacy, and community for individuals and families throughout the Inland Northwest whose lives are touched by Down syndrome.
Get Involved Today!

Create a Team
Sponsor a Walker
Invite Friends, Family & Co-workers
Walk and Donate!

Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive community—one step at a time.
Your Support Makes a Lasting Impact
As you consider a donation or sponsorship—whether for a team or an individual walker—please know that 100% of proceeds benefit Ds Connections NW and our ongoing mission to improve the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the broader community.
Ds Connections NW is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Alyssa's Teen & Young Adult Meetup in Spokane Valley - September Meetup
2025-09-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Stepping Stones Pediatric Therapy Center, 15920 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA, 99216, United States

2025 Summer Picnic - Christmas in July; Elf Camp
2025-07-19 11:30 - 15:00 | Ramsey Park, 3525 N Ramsey Rd, Coeur d' Alene, 83815, United States
🎄 Christmas in July; ELF CAMP 🎄
Hosted by DsCNW
📅 Saturday, July 19th
🕦 11:30 AM -3 PM
📍 Ramsey Park, CDA
Get ready for a summer celebration with a touch of holiday magic! Join us for our 2025 DsCNW Christmas in July: ELF CAMP Summer Picnic — where elves of all ages are welcome!
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Bring the whole family!
🎉 Expect plenty of laughs, games, and unforgettable memories at our very first Elf Camp.
🎅 Elf Attire Encouraged!
Dress in your best red and green to impress Santa and conquer the elf-worthy obstacle course. Show us you’ve got what it takes to be a top elf!
🕛 Itinerary:
11:30 Arrival and Check in – pick your elf name
12:00 Lunch
1:00 Elf Camp
2:00 Frost a cookie
3:00 Depart Elf Camp
🎄 1PM Elf Camp ‘Obstacles’:

❄️ Snowball practice: Elves toss “snowballs” into buckets
🎁 Pile the Presents: Elves see who can stack the highest pile of presents
🧱 Chimney Crawl: Elves crawl through tents and hula hoop
🧸 Rescue Teddy: Elves pull a sled with a giant bear
🎄 Carry the Presents: Elves balance packages through a tire and cone course
⛄ Craft Station: Make your own snowman (or snowwoman!) ornament

🍴 Lunch Details:
Enjoy sandwiches from Jimmy John’s, chips, soda, and a sweet treat for dessert! Make a customized lemonade with flavored syrups!

Condiments (mustard & mayo) will be served on the side
Unwiches available — just check the box on the registration form

💲 Cost Options:

$3 per person (includes full lunch)
$2 per person (soda and snacks only)
$0 if you bring your own lunch

OR

$10 per family of 4

❤️ No one misses out!
If cost is a concern, please reach out – Email Us. We have funds set aside to ensure every family can join the fun.
📌 Register by Wednesday, July 16th for picnic!
For more details click the link to register!
REGISTER HERE!

NEW Vanessa's Connect Group
2025-06-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Landings Park, 3849 Long Meadow Drive, Coeur d'Alene, ID, 83815
Who needs sunshine when you can have popsicles? 😊 Join us at Wednesday’s New Connect Gathering for all ages and let us know you’re coming! We don’t want to be stuck with a bunch of melted treats… or sad faces.

FREE! Registration is on the right side of this page.

Amanda's Bingo Night - FREE
2025-06-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Ds Connections Northwest, 3839 W. Prairie Ave, Hayden, 83835, United States
Let’s get together! Teen/Young Adults (ages 15-35) are you ready for a wonderful time? There will be bingo, snacks, beverages and best of all – Friends & Fun. You won’t want to miss this ’cause Amanda puts on quite an evening. Zion will be back next month!

Past Walk T-shirts
2025-06-20 09:00 - 2025-09-18 17:00 | Ds Connections Northwest, 3839 W. Prairie Ave, Hayden, 83835, United States
DsCNW Past Walk Tees – Suggested Donation
T-shirts are suggested donation of $5 each or pick 4 get one extra – only $20 donation for 5 t-shirts!
Use code ‘pick4get1‘ to get your extra t-shirt.
Head to our zeffy, link on the right of this page, where all colors and sizes are listed. Donate and get some new summer tees – it’s a win-win!

The Little Gym - Ds Connect Group
2025-06-14 | The Little Gym of Post Falls, 9044 W Prairie Ave Suite 103, Post Falls, ID, 83854, United States
🎉 Join Us for a ‘Just Desserts’ Father’s Day Celebration! 🎉
Friday, June 14th | 5:00–7:00 PM
📍 The Little Gym, Post Falls

Bring the whole family and join us for an evening of fun, connection, and celebration! Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or meeting new ones, this free event is open to all ages and promises something for everyone.

💙 Event Highlights:✅ FREE gym activities for children ages 5 months – 12 years (with parent supervision)🎨 Crafts and fun for older kids and participants
🥧 Sweet Em’s Bakery and Village Bakery are donating desserts
🌟 Special Thanks to Chris Goodwin and The Little GymChris is generously providing the gym space at no cost to our Ds families—and he has an evening full of exciting activities planned through The Little Gym’s movement and imaginative play program!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 All are welcome—don’t miss out!Registration is required for children ages 5 months – 12 years to ensure we have a spot reserved for them.
📅 Register today and come celebrate with us!
https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjMyMjI4

Spokane Indians Game - Friday June 6th at 7:05 PM
2025-06-06 19:00 - 22:00 | Spokane Avista Stadium
DsCNW invites you for a night of baseball, friends, princes/princesses and connection at the Spokane Indians Game!
Avista Stadium
602 N Havana Street
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Friday, June 6th at 7:05PM
We have a block of 50 seats reserved at a discounted rate of $5 (plus fees) per ticket just for our DsCNW families!
Avista Stadium transforms into a magical land full of princesses from your favorite fairy tales. Wear your prince or princess costume and take pictures with all your favorite storybook characters! Also, pick up your Coeur d’Alene Casino BINGO card and play along with the game to win great prizes.
Stick around after the game for a great fireworks show courtesy of Mallory Paint Stores!
Register today and don’t miss out on this fun event!

0-5 Connect Group
2025-06-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Orchard Park, 20298 E Indiana Ave, Liberty Lake, WA, 99019, United States
New to the Down Syndrome Journey? You’re Not Alone.
Do you have a new baby or toddler with Down syndrome? Is your mind swirling with questions and emotions that feel beyond your reach? Are you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or even isolated?
Please know—you’re not alone.
These feelings are completely normal, and we understand them because we’ve been there too.
Join our monthly connection group—a welcoming space for parents and caregivers new to the Down syndrome community. Whether you need answers, encouragement, or simply someone who gets it, we’re here for you.
Our group offers:

A supportive community that listens and understands
Referrals to trusted community-based service providers
Recommendations for helpful resources (books, videos, and more)
Encouragement during both the challenging and joyful moments

We’re walking this journey together. Let us walk with you.
Thursday, June 5th, 2025, 10am – 12pm

Orchard Park
20298 E Indiana Ave
Liberty Lake, WA 99019
There is a splash pad and playground at this park.
Weather permitting, please dress to get wet and bring a towel.

Please register with the link on the right under “website”.
Welcome to your new DsCNW Connect Group run by Jessica Rochon.

Alyssa's Teen & Young Adult Meetup in Spokane Valley - May Meetup
2025-05-21 18:00 - 20:00 | Stepping Stones Pediatric Therapy Center, 15920 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA, 99216, United States

Planning For the Future with Jason Roesler
2025-05-01 18:00 - 19:00 | Via Zoom or DsNW Office
Planning for the Future with Jason Roesler
Thursday, May 1st, 6-7pm (via zoom)

One of the most important questions parents who have a child with special needs ask themselves is …What’s going to happen to my child when I’m no longer here? To a large degree, the answer to the question will depend on the steps you begin taking today to arrange for your child’s future well-being. Please join Jason Roesler, Nic’s dad and Chief Operating Officer at C1 Wealth Management on Thursday, April 18th for a free informational workshop on Planning for Children with Special Needs.
Some of the topics to be discussed are:

The importance of wills/estate planning

529A – ABLE Accounts

Financial limits and rules to be aware of

Special Needs Trusts

Information gives you peace of mind and creating a plan gives you a goal. Jason will assist with both of these areas. He will review options, information, and ideas on how to move forward in planning for a future where you may not be around and your child is well cared for. Exhale. Join us for an informative evening where you and other parents will learn about the proactive steps to take in your financial planning. See you there.
Participate in this talk at the DsCNW office or from the comfort of your home.
We will provide a zoom link the day of the talk.

Make a Mother's Day Gift: Paint-A-Pot
2025-04-27 14:00 - 16:00 | Jacklin Arts Cultural Center, 405 N William St., Post Falls, ID, 83854, United States
REGISTER HERE: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjMwNzEx
Need a Mother’s Day gift? Are you looking for a fun family event?
Come paint a flower pot and make a card with us!
Location: Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center in Post Falls, Upstairs Gallery (elevator available)
405 N William St.
Post Falls, ID 83854
Sunday, April 27th from 2-4pm
We are so lucky to have Kim Washko, former owner of Hands to Art paint studio, on hand to help with this project! Show up, have a snack and drink and paint your pot! Pots will be kiln fired (makes the paint permanent) and then available for pickup at the Ds office in Hayden with a little something to plant in them. The pots will be packed up and ready for gift giving!
We will have to go kits available for those that can’t attend the April 27th event. Pickup will be at the Jacklin Arts on Sunday, April 27th 2-4pm or the DsCNW office 3839 W Prairie, Hayden, Tuesday April 29th. (Please email info@dsconnectionsnw.org to arrange another day). In person registration is limited due to space limitations.
REGISTRATION CLOSES SUNDAY, APRIL 20TH – Register today and don’t miss out on this fun event!

Deadline to Register - Silverwood 'Night of the Stars'
2025-04-16 | Silverwood Theme Park, 27843 US-95, Athol, ID, 83801, United States
Silverwood’s Night of the Stars registration deadline is TODAY!
The event will be Friday, May 16th from 4-8PM.
Silverwood opens the park one week early just for Night of the Stars – special needs children and their families/caregivers.
This event is FREE to one child (Star) and one adult. Plus a meal for these 2 individuals.
Tickets and meals are available for other family members and friends at a reduced cost of $25.
To register: send an email to info@dsconnectionsnw.org with:
1. Star’s name, *email and phone *(if over 18 and can sign waiver themselves)
2. Parent, guardian or care taker name, email and phone (if Star is under 18 or can’t sign for themselves).
REGISTRATION DEADLINE 4/16/2025
After we input your information – you will receive an email with instructions and waiver to sign along with your ticket (one ticket covers Star and their parent/caregiver).

World Down syndrome Day at The Little Gym
2025-03-21 17:00 - 20:00 | The Little Gym of Post Falls, 9044 W Prairie Ave Suite 103, Post Falls, ID, 83854, United States
Please join us March 21st, 5-8pm, at The Little Gym in Post Falls to celebrate
World Down Syndrome Day!
This is a fantastic way to connect with old friends and meet new ones!
All ages welcome at this free event!
As a special feature, children ages 5 months – 12 years* can participate in gym activities free of charge!
*Children ages 5 months – 12 years (with parents) need to register so we have a spot reserved for them.*
The Little Gym gymnastics program helps children learn and grow through movement and imaginative play.
Little Gym Owner, Chris Goodwin, has a fun evening lined up to celebrate this special day!
River City Pizza is donating pizzas for the event
Birdie’s Pie Shop is donating 300 pies
Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck will be in the parking lot selling coffee
(and will give a percent of the proceeds to DS Connections NW to help
us fund more fun events and learning opportunities for you!)
Chris is providing the use of the gym free of charge to our Ds families!
Thank you, Chris and The Little Gym!

Come out for a fun family evening celebrating World Down Syndrome Day!
Register today for this fun event!

World Down syndrome Day!
2025-03-21 | Idaho
On March 21st, 2025 – celebrate World Down syndrome day! Participate by supporting one of the many local businesses who are involved in advocating, or contact us to learn how you (and your business) can directly participate in World Ds Day!

Alyssa's Teen & Young Adult Meetup in Spokane Valley - March Meetup
2025-03-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Stepping Stones Pediatric Therapy Center, 15920 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA, 99216, United States

Alyssa's Teen & Young Adult Meetup in Spokane Valley
2025-02-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Stepping Stones Pediatric Therapy Center, 15920 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley, WA, 99216, United States
