For Families

Circle of Friends

Contributed by Lydia Orso Natural Ties is a national college organization at Washington University that provides opportunities for students and people with disabilities to build friendships. Basically we just hang out and have fun! We go bowling; have movie nights, holiday celebrations, sporting events, etc. This group is for teens and adults with or without a disability. Anybody can join! If you are interested in looking for a diverse group with whom you can make friends, I highly recommend Natural Ties. We will make sure everyone fits in and is happy and comfortable. We all have our own circle of friends. We’d love for ours to grow and include new faces. We hope to see you there. If you are interested or would like more information please email any one of the following group leaders. Allison Gott: gottmilk84@aol.com Brittany Kohn: bmkohn@artsci.wustl.edu Lydia Orso: lydiaorso@yahoo.com. We look forward to expanding our circle to include YOU!

Show Off Your Talent

Contributed by Lydia Orso

Theatre Unlimited is an acting troupe of individuals who have disabilities of all kinds. They perform a musical every spring. Over the last 3 years Theatre Unlimited has performed “Annie Get Your Gun,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Fiddler on the Roof”, and most recently, “The Music Man”.

Anyone, 17 and older, with a disability is encouraged to join. This is such a great group and loads of fun too! In addition to performances, cast members socialize outside of the group! If you are interested in getting more information or if you have questions contact the director, Janis Valdes at valdesjo@earthlink.net.

Self Advocates for Independent Living/SAIL
SAIL and Jr. SAIL are DSAGSL support group for self-advocates. You can find more information about this group on our Advocacy page.

Dr. Joyce's Weight Loss Program begins May 22, 2008
Do you know an adult with DS who would like to lose weight?  DSAGSL is pleased to sponsor a second 12 week exercise and weight loss program beginning Thursday May 22.  The cost will be $60 for the 12 sessions.

We will meet from Thursdays from  May 22 to August 14 at 6-8pm at Rainbow Village, 1240 Dautel Lane, St. Louis MO  63146.  (We will not have a meeting on July 3.)  Each adult must come with a partner who will attend all the sessions.  Each session begins in the gym.

This second program for adults will be directed by Dr. Joyce Johnson, a pediatrician in private practice since 1985.  Dr. J's Family Weight Loss Program is aimed at helping participants learn about healthy eating and the benefits of physical activity.

Class size will be limited to 12 adults with DS.  Please call the office at 314-961-2504 to enroll or for additional information.  Our winter program (partnered with Weight Watchers) was filled so we encourage you to call soon if you want to participate.