The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte

Moms' Night Out- Karaoke at Petra's
2023-06-21 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Petra’s, 1919 Commonwealth Avenue, Charlotte, NC, 28205, United States
Join us for a Mom’s Night Out singing Karaoke at Petra’s!
This event is for Moms or Caregivers of children/loved ones with Ds to hang out, meet others in the community, and enjoy a fun night out!
Event Details:

When: June 21, 7:00 pm
Location: 1919 Commonwealth Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28205
Who: Moms or female caregivers of children with Ds (21+ Only, ID required)
Food & Drink: Purchased by participants
Price: FREE Entry

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Friends Night Out - Monster Mini Golf (Gastonia)
2023-06-27 15:00 - 17:00 | Monster Mini Golf (Gastonia), 3924 E Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC, 28056
Join us for a Friends Night Out at Monster Mini Golf in Gastonia!
This event is for teens and adults (17+) with Down syndrome to mingle and connect with others in the community. We have limited spaces available, and admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants can bring one buddy, peer, caregiver, parent. The cost for participating in this event is $10 per player, and the DSAGC will cover the remaining expenses.
Event Details:

When: Tuesday, June 27th (3:00pm to 5:00pm)
Location: Monster Mini Golf, 3924 E Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28056
Who: Friends (17+) with Down syndrome
Food & Drink: snacks and drinks available for purchase
Price: $10
Tickets: 12 tickets on a first come first serve basis

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Dads' Night Out - Dave & Buster's (Pineville)
2023-06-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Dave and Buster’s, 11049 Carolina Place Pkwy Suite LS-05, Pineville, NC, 28134
Join us for Dads’ Night Out at Dave & Buster’s (Pineville) on June 27th
This event is for Dads of children with Down syndrome, for a time to get together in fellowship and a night to get away.
Event Details:

When: Tuesday, June 27, 7 pm-9 pm
Where: 11049 Carolina Place Pkwy Suite LS-05 Pineville, NC 28134
Who: Dads of children/loved ones with Down syndrome
Food & Drink: Food and drinks are available for purchase by participants
Price: FREE $20 Power Card for games (sponsored by the DSAGC).

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Greater Charlotte Buddy Walk Family Team Kick-Off
2023-07-12 17:30 - 20:00 | William R. Davie Park – Conference Center, 4635 Pineville Matthews Rd,, Charlotte, NC, 28226
Come and participate in our inaugural Buddy Walk Family Kick-off! This event is entertaining, informative, and geared toward new and returning Buddy Walk Team Captains and their families. We will be discussing the upcoming 2023 Greater Charlotte Buddy Walk and our ongoing endeavors to gather donations for the DSAGC.

When: Wednesday, July 12th, 5:30 PM
Where: William R. Davie Park- Conference Center
4635 Pineville Matthews Rd, Charlotte, NC 28226
RSVP HERE: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg0NjUx

Friends Night Out - Community Drumming (Monroe)
2023-07-13 19:00 - 20:00 | Health Beat Wellness, 1313 Griffith Road, Monroe, NC, 28112, United States
Join us for a Friends Night Out of Community Drumming at Health Beat Wellness in Monroe!
This event is for teens and adults (17+) with Down syndrome to mingle and connect with others in the community. We have limited spaces available, and admission will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants can bring one buddy, peer, caregiver, or parent. The event is FREE for participants!
Event Details:

When: Thursday, July 13th (7:00 pm to 8:00 pm)
Location: Health Beat Wellness, 1313 Griffith Rd, Monroe, NC 28112
Who: Friends (17+) with Down syndrome
What to bring: Instruments will be provided by the venue
Price: FREE
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg0Mjg2

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Moms' Night Out- Music Bingo (Salisbury)
2023-07-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Morgan Ridge Brewery & Eatery, 421 N Lee St, Salisbury, NC, 28144
Join us for a Mom’s Night Out playing Music Bingo at Morgan Ridge Railwalk Brewery & Eatery.
This event is for Moms or Caregivers of children/loved ones with Ds to hang out, meet others in the community, and enjoy a fun night out!
Event Details:

When: July 19, 7:00 pm
Location: 421 N Lee St, Salisbury, NC 28144
Who: Moms or female caregivers of children with Ds (21+ Only, ID required)
Food & Drink: Purchased by participants
Price: FREE Entry
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg0NDQw

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Dads' Night Out - Baseball Game (Kannapolis Cannon Ballers)
2023-07-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Atrium Health Ballpark, 1 Cannon Baller Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081
Batter UP!
Join us for Dads’ Night Out with the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers.
This event is for Dads of children with Down syndrome, for a time to get together in fellowship and a night to get away.
Event Details:

When: Tuesday, July 25th, 7:00 PM
Where: Atrium Health Ballpark: 1 Cannon Baller Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081
Who: Dads of children/loved ones with Down syndrome
Food & Drink: Food and drinks are available for purchase by participants
Price: FREE (sponsored by the DSAGC).
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg0Mzg5

RSVP by July 10th!

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Carolinas Homecoming - Inclusive Homecoming Dance
2023-08-05 18:00 - 21:00 | Next Step Clubhouse, 163 W 9th St, Charlotte, NC, 28202, United States
TIME & LOCATION

August 05, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Next Step Clubhouse, 163 W 9th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA

ABOUT THE EVENT

To celebrate the end of summer, we will be dancing the evening away at the CAROLINAS HOMECOMING!!! The DSA of Greater Charlotte, along with Next Step Clubhouse and Best Buddies of North Carolina, are tri-hosting this special dance. In addition to great music by DJ JOEY, there will be drinks, snacks, and desserts. The best part? This event is free to attend, and you do not need a ticket to enter.
RSVP HERE:
https://www.nextstepclubhouse.org/events-1/carolina-homecoming/form
EVENT DETAILS:
The dance itself will be in the gym of First United Methodist Church of Charlotte Saturday, August 05, 2023, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Parking is in the parking garage located at 163 W. 9th St. This is the address you will want to use in your GPS/Navigation system. Detailed directions are HERE. When you arrive inside the garage, look for volunteers to guide you the rest of the way. Once you exit the parking garage elevator, please stop by the registration table to let us know you’ve arrived.
We encourage parents, chaperones, and faculty to enjoy Uptown Chalrotte’s nightlife while we are dancing the night away. Or, you can stay and hang out in our VIP (Very Important Parent) lounge.

*Please note: The Carolinas Homecoming is for those in 6th grade and older; if your child has medical, personal, or behavioral needs that require intermittent or consistent care, we ask that you attend this event with them or designate a chaperone who knows and understands your child’s needs. We want everyone who attends this event to have a safe and fun experience.

**BBNC, DSAGC, and NSC follow Federal, State, and Local mandates with regard to the Coronavirus / COVID-19. By participating in this event, you voluntarily assume the known and unknown risks related to your participation in this program, including potential exposure to COVID-19. You also grant BBNC, DSAGC, and NSC the right to use your likeness and the waiver of copyright to images. For further information, please call the DSA at 704-536-2163.

Down for Pets Webinar
2023-08-10 11:00 - 12:00
Down for Pets is a Philanthropic Grant Program that financially supports those in the Down syndrome community who want to rescue shelter animals for companionship. In our webinar, we will cover grant eligibility, specifics about the financial aspects of the program, how we support our recipients, general expectations, and more! There will be a Q&A session at the end for any additional questions. We hope to see you there!
When: August 10th, 11 AM – 12 PM
Where: Virtual (Webinar Link will be provided to participants)
Register Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg0NzE1

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Family Playdate at Miracle Park - Rock Hill
2023-08-13 14:00 - 17:00 | Miracle Park (Rock Hill), 1005 Eden Terrace, Rock Hill, SC, 29730
We cordially invite you to join us for a delightful afternoon filled with light refreshments and fun for the whole family. This is an excellent opportunity for families in the community to come together and connect with one another.

When: Sunday, August 13th at 2:00 PM
Where: 1005 Eden Terrace, Rock Hill, SC 29730
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg2MDA5

Chat with an IEP Coach- Larina Pierce
2023-08-15 19:30 - 21:30 | Virtual Event via Zoom
Join us for one of 2 two separate virtual options for “Chat with an IEP Coach!” -Larina Pierce. Dates provided are for Tuesday, 8/15/23, and Sunday, 8/27/23. Please register for the date you are available.
These FREE Zoom sessions are an opportunity for newer families to the IEP world or those who have been involved but want to check in with an IEP Coach about particular challenges you may be facing. When you register, you will be invited to submit your TOP question/concern about your child’s education at this point, and Larina will offer her professional recommendations for next steps.
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg2MDQw
Program Layout:

Introduction to Larina Pierce and LP Family Coaching
Responding to each family’s current Top Challenge in their IEP Process
Tips from the IEP Trenches!
Q&A as time permits

Please note Larina is not able to take on any clients as a hired IEP coach but is providing essential information to support your family for the next school year.
If you have any questions about this program, please reach out to DSA-GC Program and Community Outreach Director Victoria Coles at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Camp Horizon (Ages 10-17)
2023-08-16 08:00 - 2023-08-19 17:00 | YMCA Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge, 7901 South NC 18, Boomer, NC, 28606, United States
Registration for Camp Horizon is OPEN!! Campers can register here

NCGA 2023 Session and People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
2023-08-16 19:30 - 21:30 | Virtual Event
NCGA 2023 Session and People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
Corye Dunn, Director of Public Policy, Disability Rights NC
Please join us for information and discussion with Disability Rights NC policy staff about this year’s legislative session and its impact on people with IDD. The members of the North Carolina General Assembly (NCGA) make decisions about people with IDD that impact their daily lives. The NCGA decides how many Innovation Waiver slots are funded and the hourly rate earned by Direct Service Providers. The details to expand Medicaid in North Carolina are still being decided and can have major implications for people with IDD. It is important for people with IDD and their family members to understand how their elected officials are responsible for the supports and services available.
Corye Dunn joined DRNC in 2011 as the agency’s director of public policy. Dunn, who was born and raised in Durham, N.C., graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill and NC Central University School of Law. Prior to coming to work at DRNC, Dunn practiced law in a small firm. She also served as a direct care provider to adults and children with developmental disabilities and worked in nonprofits seeking to expand access to education and increase investment in low-wealth communities.
Registration closes on Monday, 8/14.
RSVP Here: www.flipcause.com

Dads' Night Out - Indoor Kart Racing (Concord)
2023-08-22 19:00 - 21:00 | K1 Indoor Kart Racing, 800 DERITA RD #K, Concord, NC, 28027
Hey, Dads, do you feel a need for speed? Join us for a FREE night of racing and fun.
Event Details:

When: Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: 800 DERITA RD #K, CONCORD, NC 28027
Cost: Free
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg1NTA5

**This gathering is intended for fathers and male caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome.**

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

An Evening of Comedy with Dan Kulp
2023-08-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Crossway Community Church
Thank you so much for your interest in attending “An Evening of Comedy with Dan Kulp.”
Presented by the DSA of Greater Charlotte and Crossway Community Church.

Special thanks to Crossway Community Church for providing space for this family event!

Pre-purchased tickets are $8 per person (FREE entry for individuals with IDD)
Tickets at the door are $10
Location: Crossway Community Church
6400 Prosperity Church Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28269

The event starts at 7:00 PM.

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS HERE: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg1OTUy

About Dan Kulp:

“Dan Kulp is a Comedian, Actor, Author, and Pastor. Three of his four children are adopted and have special needs (Down syndrome and Autism, Alfi’s syndrome, spina bifida). He also has four siblings with Down syndrome (three were adopted).
After the birth of his brother in 1971, Dan’s parents adopted three more children with Down syndrome, becoming a family with nine kids! This gave him a unique perspective on the value of life. PBS and Newsweek Magazine did a feature on them, which aired internationally, and The National Enquirer did a two-page spread about the Kulps! Now, Dan and his wife have carried on the legacy.
You will laugh as Dan describes his parenting foibles. You will be moved to tears as he tells how his wife’s experiences with the infamous “dying rooms” led to adoption. You will be inspired by their son Simon, who was abandoned in the woods on the day he was born and became whom the Kulps have been told is the first with Down syndrome adopted out of China to the U.S.
Dan has twice appeared on Good Morning America and is the author of Confounding the Wise: A Celebration of Life, Love, Laughter, Adoption, and the Joy of Children with Special Needs. He shares his humor at banquets, conferences, churches, camps, colleges, special needs organizations, schools, and comedy clubs around the U.S.”

All event attendees will receive an email from DSAGC Program & Community Outreach Director Victoria Coles during the week before August 26th regarding event logistics and updates.

For Questions about registration or event details, reach out to Victoria Coles at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org or by phone at 704-536-2163

Moms' Night Out - Concert on the Pier (Stanly)
2023-09-09 19:30 - 21:30 | Piney Point Golf Club, 48688 Piney Point Road, Norwood, NC, 28128
Join us for a Mom’s Night Out listening to music on the Pier.
This event is for Moms or Caregivers of children/loved ones with Ds to hang out, meet others in the community, and enjoy a fun night out!
Event Details:

When: September 9th, 7:30 pm
Location: 48688 Piney Point Road, Norwood, NC 28128
Please use Piney Point Golf Club in Norwood as the destination. Turn left on Pine Tree St., the street after Piney Point Golf Club. Take it till the end, and turn left on Sycamore Rd. It’ll be the house on the right side of the cul-de-sac.
Who: Moms or female caregivers of children with Ds.
Food & Drink: Purchased by participants
Price: FREE Entry
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg0NDQ2

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Embracing All Senses: An Event Open to Every Child's Sensory Journey!
2023-09-10 09:00 - 11:30 | Big Air (University City), 8215 University City Blvd Suite 1A, Charlotte, NC, 28213
In collaboration with @bigaircharlotte – University City and @autismresourcegroupofcharlotte we are hosting a sensory morning for all individuals with special sensory needs.
Please join us on Sept 10 for this fun experience.
Registration is required–space is limited. Payment for admission is required to Big Air front desk on the day of the event.
– $5 per jumper.

**Registration is limited to the first 100 guests. **

Adult Retreat Weekend
2023-09-15 16:00 - 2023-09-17 14:00 | Camp Thunderbird, 1 Thunderbird Lane, Lake Wylie, SC, 29710, United States
We are happy to announce that registration for our bi-yearly Adult Retreat Weekend is NOW OPEN!
Applications for PAID COUNSELORS positions are also open. To sign up, please click HERE.

The Adult Weekend Retreat is a two-night, three-day camping experience for adults aged 18 and above with Down syndrome. It takes place twice a year at YMCA Camp Thunderbird, located in South Carolina near Lake Wylie. We maintain a 3:1 participant-to-counselor ratio to ensure that our adult campers receive the proper care and guidance from our dedicated counselors. Our counselors work diligently to provide the best experience possible, including vocational training and other activities. Our adult participants can enjoy a variety of activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, ziplining, team building, slip-n-slide, a dress-up dance, and a campfire complete with s’mores.

We also offer scholarships to eligible families who require financial assistance. To apply for a Camp Retreat Scholarship, please visit the camp/retreat registration site, create an account, and complete the application form under the “Camper/Participant Information” section.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Victoria Coles, our Program & Community Outreach Director, via email at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org or by phone at 704-536-2163

Dual Diagnosis (Ds and Autism): ABA Strategies for helping Individuals with Dual Diagnosis of Ds and Autism
2023-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
The Carolina Center for ABA will be providing this virtual workshop to parents who have children with Dual Diagnosis of Ds and Autism of any age.
This workshop is to assist parents with ABA Strategies for helping Individuals with Dual Diagnosis in the Down Syndrome & ASD Community become more independent.
Please join us for a free workshop on Monday, September 18, to learn more about the similarities between Down Syndrome and ASD. We will explore best practices for promoting independence and success in the community and at home. The workshop will focus on the utilization of ABA strategies and access to services.
When: Sept 18, 2023
Time: 6pm-8pm (please log in a few minutes early so you can get settled and the presentation can begin on time).
Where: Zoom- Virtual Workshop- Link will be sent to registrants a few days before the workshop
Cost: FREE
RSVP Here: www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg2ODMx
If you have any questions, please reach out to Vicki Coles at Victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Dads' Night Out - Axe-Throwing (Statesville)
2023-09-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Patriot Axe Throwing, 112 Signal Hill Dr. Suite A, Statesville, NC, 28265
Join us for a FREE axe-throwing adventure!
Event Details:

When: Tuesday, September 19, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: 112 Signal Hill Dr., Suite A, Statesville, NC 28625
Cost: Free

**This gathering is intended for fathers and male caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome.**
Attendees must be 18+ to participate; a waiver MUST be signed upon entry into the facility.

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

Hip Hop Dance Class-Fall 2023- Session 14
2023-09-20 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtual Event via Zoom
DO YOU LOVE TO DANCE? Join Miss April for the SUMMER Session 14 starting September 20.
Join Miss April for a 6-week (new for Fall session) hip-hop dance class for ages 9 and up!
Class will meet weekly via Zoom on Wednesdays from 6:30 pm-7:30 pm EST to rehearse a hip-hop routine.
All participants will receive a link to the full routine to practice at home between class sessions.
This 6-week course will culminate in a special LIVE performance at the Greater Charlotte Buddy Walk on Sunday, 10/22/23 at the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Ballpark.
Your dancer did NOT have to attend Sessions 1-13 to participate in Session 14. Choreography is curated new to each session.
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg2MDYx
Dancers of all abilities are welcome!
Wednesday, September 20
Wednesday, September 27
NO PRACTICE ON 10/4
Wednesday, October 11

Wednesday, October 18 (in-person rehearsal) (location TBD)
Friday, October 20 (in-person rehearsal) (location TBD)
Sunday, 10/22- LIVE performance at Buddy Walk 11:15 am (arrive at 10:30 or earlier to prep and warm up)

Registration Fee is $35.00 per participant and covers all 6 classes, including the performance – scholarships are available, please contact victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org.

Chat with an IEP Coach- Larina Pierce
2023-09-20 19:30 - 21:30 | Virtual Event via Zoom
Join us Wednesday, September 20th, for a virtual talk, “Chat with an IEP Coach!” -Larina Pierce.
The FREE Zoom session is an opportunity for newer families to the IEP world or those who have been involved but want to check in with an IEP Coach about particular challenges you may be facing. When you register, you will be invited to submit your TOP question/concern about your child’s education at this point, and Larina will offer her professional recommendations for the next steps.
RSVP Here: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTg3NTEx
Program Layout:

Introduction to Larina Pierce and LP Family Coaching
Responding to each family’s current Top Challenge in their IEP Process
Tips from the IEP Trenches!
Q&A as time permits

Please note Larina is not able to take on any clients as a hired IEP coach but is providing essential information to support your family for the next school year.
If you have any questions about this program, please reach out to DSA-GC Program and Community Outreach Director Victoria Coles at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

The Registry of Unmet Needs: How to get on the Innovations Waiver waitlist
2023-09-20 19:30 - 21:30 | Virtual Event
The Registry of Unmet Needs: How to get on the Innovations Waiver waitlist, why it’s important, and what to do while you’re waiting
Jenna Flynn, Autism Society of North Carolina
This presentation will use plain language to explain the Innovations Waiver’s Registry of Unmet Needs in the state of North Carolina. Participants will leave with a stronger understanding of the steps to take to be placed on the waitlist as well as what to expect in the process. Information will be shared about what is available to people with Down syndrome and other IDDs while on the Registry of Unmet Needs. Misconceptions of dealing with the Local Management Entities- Manage Care Organizations (LME-MCOs) will be addressed.
Jenna Flynn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in IDD/ASD and mental health. She has a bachelor’s in psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and received her MSW from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2011. Her work history includes NC Local Management Entities- Managed Care Organization (LME-MCOs), TEACCH, and Autism Society of NC.
Registration opens on August 1st.
Registration closes on September 18th.
RSVP HERE: www.flipcause.com

The Improvaneer Method- Session 6
2023-09-27 17:00 - 19:00 | Virtual Event
Virtual 5-Week Course on Wednesdays at 5 pm EST starting on Wed. Sept 27

Cost: $45 per participant (includes ALL FIVE 1-hour sessions) and home-prov activities.
Teaches participants:

Eye Contact. Creative Thinking. Adaption To Change. Quick Thinking. Focus. Listening. Voice Projection. Character Development. Attention To Detail.
Dates & Times:
WEDNESDAY evenings, 5 pm-6 pm EST (Sept 27, Oct 4, Oct 11, Oct 18, Oct 25)

Structure:

Each class has a theme, a discussion, five games, and ‘homeprov’ that the participants are to practice with friends and family.

Ages:

Adult classes are for those 16 years and older. Participants did NOT have to participate in Sessions 1-11 in order to join us for 2023 Sessions.
ALL ARE WELCOME!

Scholarships are available; please contact Vicki Coles at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org

If you have any questions about this program, please feel free to reach out to Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org.

Benefit Pint Night for DSA!
2023-09-28 18:30 - 20:30 | Hi-Wire Brewing, 340 W Tremont Ave, STE 140, Charlotte, NC, 28203
Join us for an enjoyable evening with the DSA. We will provide insights about our organization and recognize the invaluable contributions made by our dedicated volunteers in making our events a success. You can take this chance to express gratitude to a camp counselor by purchasing them a pint of two. 🙂

RyzABOVE: Fitness with Friends (Fall 2023)
2023-10-03 18:00 - 19:00 | Virtual Series
This is a 5-week virtual fitness class that occurs on Tuesdays at 6pm EST

COME JOIN US FOR FITNESS FRIENDS hosted by RyzAB0VE Fitness and the DSA OF CHARLOTTE!
Come join our fitness classes which focus on exercise and socialization, including warm-up, fun/games, and general fitness, including strength, agility, coordination, balance, and teamwork. Movements can be progressed or regressed depending on participant needs. This is a great way to get in some of your daily exercise and to make new friends!
Dates will be:

Tuesday, October 3
Tuesday, October 10
Tuesday, October 17
Tuesday, October 24
(NO class on October 31)
Tuesday, November 7

Classes will start at 6 PM.
For ages 8+
Registration Fee is $45.00 per participant and covers all 5 classes- Scholarships are available; please contact victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org.

Show Up Social Volunteering Event at Hi-Wire Brewing
2023-10-14 12:00 - 15:00 | Hi-Wire Brewing, 340 W Tremont Ave, STE 140, Charlotte, NC, 28203
ShowUp Charlotte is an organization that seeks to promote social volunteering events that encourage people to give back while enjoying themselves. It’s a unique approach to volunteering, combining socializing and community service in one setting. One of their upcoming events will support the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte (DSAGC). Volunteers will aid in the preparation of items for this year’s Buddy Walk event. They will be tasked with assembling over 100 goodie bags and preparing approximately 1,000 ribbons with pins for the big day. Everything will be ready and set up, so volunteers will only need to bring their willingness and a positive attitude to the table!

Here’s what is included with your general admission ticket:

Live music
Your first beer or non-alcoholic drink from Hi-Wire Brewing (drink ticket given with swag bag)
A Show Up drawstring backpack
A Show Up souvenir cup
$10 donation to the Down Syndrome Association (already built into your ticket price!)
A food truck on site
Photo Station
Time to mingle, socialize, network, and have fun with great people like yourself!
***Options to upgrade your ticket to include a Show Up T-Shirt and/or increase your donation amount to a total of $50, $75, or $100 (instead of $10)

No long-term commitments, no hassle… just sign up and SHOW UP!

**Please note that discount codes for your ticket *may* affect your total donation amount towards the nonprofit. Example: A free ticket will not be donated to the nonprofit.

Ticket Options are listed below:

T-Shirt Bundle: General Admission + T-Shirt + $10 donated (Cost $35)
General Admission: No T-shirt, Includes $10 donated (Cost: $25)
Donate 50: General Admission + T-Shirt + $50 total donation (Cost: $75)
Donate 75: General Admission + T-Shirt + $75 total donation (Cost: $100)
Donate 100: General Admission + T-Shirt + $100 total donation (Cost: $125)

Volunteer and Party with us!

Show Up.
Give Back.
Have Fun!

ABLE Accounts and Special Needs Trusts
2023-10-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Virtual Event
ABLE Accounts and Special Needs Trusts
Ryan F. Platt, A Special Needs Plan
The ABLE account is a state-run savings program for eligible people with disabilities in the United States. It continues to be an area many families have questions about; in terms of its setup, how to effectively use it, and how it compliments a special needs trust. You are invited to an interactive, exciting experience to learn about ABLE accounts and Special Needs trusts with A Special Needs Plan founder Ryan Platt. Learn how ABLE accounts can be an asset to your loved one with Down syndrome and other disabilities.
Ryan Platt founded A Special Needs Plan in 2005 and has been a pioneer in his field. He completed his Special Care Planner Certification at the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA. He continued his financial planning education by completing his Chartered Financial Consultant®, Chartered Special Needs Consultant™ and Certified Family Business Specialist designations. He’s grown A Special Needs Plan into an elite, nationally recognized planning firm. Ryan’s background includes advanced training in estate and tax planning, special needs trusts, government programs, and the emotional dynamics of working with people and families with loved ones with special needs.
Registration opens on September 1st.
Registration closes on October 16th.

Mom's Night Out - October Paint & Brew (Belmont)
2023-10-19 18:30 - 20:30 | Primal Brewery (Belmont), 52 Ervin Street, Belmot, NC, 28012, United States
We are calling all MOMS! Join us for a step-by-step instructional painting class hosted by local artist Aimee-Rose while you sip on some fantastic local brews.
Event Details:

When: Thursday, October 19th
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Primal Brewery Belmont 52 Ervin Street Belmont, NC 28012

This event is for Moms and Female Caregivers of individuals with Ds (participants must be 21+). Spots are limited, so RSVP soon!
If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with Victoria Coles, Program and Community Outreach Director, at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org.

2023 Greater Charlotte Buddy Walk
2023-10-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Atrium Health Ballpark, 1 Cannon Baller Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081
Join us for the 2023 Greater Charlotte Buddy Walk at the Kannapolis Cannonballer Ballpark!

Since 1995, the Buddy Walk® has been the premier advocacy event for Down syndrome in the United States. It is also the world’s most widely recognized public awareness program for the Down syndrome community. The Buddy Walk® attracts thousands of participants from coast to coast each year.
