www.DSFFlorida.org

Every October, we pause to shine a brighter light on the remarkable worth of individuals with Down syndrome. Awareness is more than recognition, it is a call to see possibility everywhere.

At The FOUNDATION, we believe that when POTENTIAL is given OPPORTUNITY , the outcome is SUCCESS. Every initiative, program, event, partnership, donation, and every hug we share is built on that trust and truth.

Our members show us that achievement isn’t measured only in milestones, but in the courage to dream and the determination to reveal what’s possible.

This month, let’s celebrate the gifts, aspirations, and accomplishments of our community, and renew our commitment to opening doors so every talent can shine. Together, let’s honor the EXTRAordinary significance of people with Down syndrome.

The Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida is built on partnership. As a member, you play an important role in creating an inclusive, supportive, and opportunity-rich community. 

Explore the ways you can be an ACTIVE MEMBER:

• Create a fundraising team or Corporate Cup team for our annual Tour of Champions Bowl-A-Thon & Silent Auction
• Attend a minimum of 6 FOUNDATION events within the year
• Volunteer at least 10 hours with The FOUNDATION
• Host a fundraiser benefiting The FOUNDATION
• Serve on or chair a FOUNDATION committee
• Secure a corporate sponsorship or grant on behalf of The FOUNDATION
• Volunteer for 5 or more iCan! Work shifts

Completing any of these activities also qualifies you for scholarships year-round.

Together, we create a community where POTENTIAL + OPPORTUNITY = SUCCESS! 

Thank you for being an active member of The FOUNDATION family.

In partnership with Orlando Health, we invite you to attend our Annual Down Syndrome Clinic for Adults.

This special event is designed for individuals age 17 and older with Down syndrome. Attendees will receive complimentary medical screenings, consultations with healthcare professionals, and access to valuable community resources - an important and supportive gathering created just for adults with Down syndrome.

Available specialists include:

Behavior Therapy

Cardiology

Dentist

Dermatology

Dietician

Endocrinology

ENT

Genetics

Gynecology

Neuropsychology

Occupational Therapy

Ophthalmology

Oral Motor Therapy

Orthopedics

Physical Therapy

Pulmonology

Speech Therapy

Trisomy 21 Research Foundation (Nutrivene)

And much more!

The Orlando Magic season is right around the corner! We’re calling all members 18+ to volunteer at Magic games by assisting with delivering food and snacks to the Club and Loge Level lounges. Members must volunteer with another adult.

Members who are not in our iCan! Work program must volunteer with another adult (18+) for their first five games. After completing five games, members become eligible to receive payment for working Magic shifts.

Friday, October 3

Down Syndrome Awareness Dance

Tour of Champions Bowl-A-Thon Kick-Off

Saturday, November 1

Championing SUCCESS in Education

At the FOUNDATION We know that when experts in education and experts in Down syndrome come together, everyone walks away better prepared for the year ahead.

At this event, we will provide research-based tools to help teachers and professionals succeed in educating students with Down syndrome.

Now that we are back to school, be sure to share this opportunity with your son or daughter’s team!

Click on the images below to read the full information in a larger format.

November 7, 8 & 9

Camping Jamboree!

Pack your bags and join us at Jetty Park, for one of our most anticipated events of the year! Families from across the state will come together for a weekend of camping, connection, and FUN.

Weekend Highlights:

• Fishing
• Surfing
• Beachside games with friends
• A fabulous cookout
• Campfire & s’mores under the stars
• And more…

This event is exclusive to immediate family members, and all FOUNDATION campsites will be grouped together, making it the perfect chance to relax and bond with your FOUNDATION family.

Important Deadlines:

• T-shirt deadline: October 22, 2025 (included with all packages)
• Final registration deadline: October 30, 2025

Through our Holiday Assistance Program, The FOUNDATION helps member families enjoy delicious holiday meals and thoughtful gifts. Your support makes this possible, and together, we can brighten many members’ homes this season. All members are welcome to apply. Priority will be given to active members of The FOUNDATION.

Empowerment Through Employment

The iCan! Work Program helps members 18+ who have completed high school gain meaningful employment. It includes on-the-job training opportunities and our signature Lunch & Learn Program, designed to lead to long-term employment.

Participants will gain:

• Skill Development: Participants are provided with training to develop essential workplace skills, such as communication, punctuality, customer service, and task management.
• Real-World Experience: The program partners with local businesses to offer hands-on job experiences and supported employment in a variety of fields.
• Customized Support: Each participant receives individualized support tailored to their strengths, interests, and areas for growth.
• Job Coaching: Professional Success Coaches assist individuals during training and while at work, ensuring a successful transition into the workforce.
• Confidence Building: The program focuses on building confidence, independence, and a sense of purpose in its participants.
• Employer Education: The FOUNDATION educates and collaborates with employers to create inclusive and supportive work environments.
• Long-Term Success: The goal is to help participants secure and maintain competitive, integrated employment for the long term.
• Community Integration: iCan! Work fosters greater inclusion by connecting participants with their communities through employment.



Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to help your son/daughter shine! Sign up today and watch them thrive!

Supporting Our Homeschooling Families

To better support our community, we have started monthly Homeschool Support Zoom Meetings! Whether you're just considering homeschooling, currently navigating it, or have completed your journey and want to share your experience—this space is for YOU.

Families of all ages and stages are welcome! A special thank you to Gemma (mother of Randy) for her initiative and dedication in starting this program!

For more information about our online programming:

follow our private Facebook page, Meetup, or email

Dennymarie.Linares@dsfflorida.org

Thank you to our sponsors

for making all of these events possible!