Summer Events and Programs: July 2025
Hi,
I hope you're enjoying a joyful and relaxing summer! As the season unfolds, we’re excited to share some new and updated summer programs and give you a sneak peek at the events we have planned for the fall.
Please send any registration questions to programs@DSAmd.org.
Best,
Brittany Preston - Programs and Community Coordinator
Virtual Programs
The Improvanner Method- Summer Sessions
Begin July 7
All registrations for the summer virtual sessions of The Improvaneer Method are at the bottom section of the newsletter. Including a new Friday session at 4:30 PM!
Cardio and Dance with Corissa - RSVP
July 12 and September 20 (start dates)- 11:00 AM
Corissa worked for ten years to become a certified Zumba and LaBlast instructor - and she can't wait to dance with YOU! Cardio Dance with Corissa is a 45-50 minute workout on Zoom that's full of fun, movement, and great music, on Saturdays
Self-Advocate Check-In: RSVP
July 17, August 21, & September 18 - 6:00 PM
Join Us for a Self-Advocate Check-In! ☕
Every Third Thursday of the Month @ 6 PM. Grab your favorite snack and join us for a cozy and interactive virtual hangout!
All 2025 dates are available for registration.
Birth-5 Resource Hour- RSVP
July 18 and August 13 - 11:30 AM
July 18 *Special Guest* Marny Helfrich, Early Childhood Performance Support Specialist, from Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program
Join us for an informative session providing an overview of the Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program (MITP), a statewide early intervention system that supports families and young children (birth through age three) with developmental delays or disabilities.
Online Support Group: Parents of Children with Complex Behaviors- RSVP
July 21 and August 18 - 7:00 PM
Parenting a child with complex behaviors can be overwhelming, isolating — and at times, exhausting. But you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
Join our free, judgment-free virtual support group, created just for parents and caregivers.
Kicking Off the School Year Right!- RSVP
August 12- 7:00 PM
Presented by Liz Capone, an Advocate, Expert Witness, and former Special Education Teacher with over 21 years of experience. Join us for an engaging session designed to help parents start the school year strong! Walk away with fresh ideas to strengthen your parent advocacy toolkit and support your child's success.
DDA Application Overview: Let’s Complete It Together! - RSVP
August 19 - 11:30 AM
Join us for a supportive, step-by-step overview of the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) application. During this session, we’ll walk through the key sections of the application together to help you complete and submit your application with confidence.
Promoting Independence in Digital Communication for Individuals with IDD - RSVP
August 21 - 7:00 PM
In today’s digital world, the ability to communicate through email and text is essential for social connection, self-advocacy, and increased independence.
Nutrition Considerations for Individuals with Down Syndrome -RSVP
September 9 - 7:00 PM
Join us for an informative session on the unique nutritional needs of individuals with Down syndrome, led by registered dietitian Andrea Heyman, MS, RD, LDN.
IEP 101 - RSVP
September 17 - 7:00 PM
Join us for an insightful webinar about the fundamentals of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and how to ensure your child is getting what they need and making progress through the IEP. Led by Attorney Alexandra Rosenblatt from the Law Office of Alexandra Rosenblatt.
"Fireside" Chat for Black Families - RSVP
September 20 - 10:00 AM
Join Monique for a series of "fireside" chats via Zoom at 10:00 am, where topics of school, medical, and community resources will be discussed and shared between Black families.
Save the Date! Your Guide to Beginning the Estate Planning Journey - Email
September 24 - 7 PM
Email us to be placed on the distribution list for this event.
Save the Date! Inclusion 101: What It Is and Why It Matters - Email
October 16- 11:30 AM
Email us to be placed on the distribution list for this event.
Virtual Open House: Housing Options for People with Disabilities in Maryland - RSVP
October 23 - 7:00 PM
Looking for housing solutions in Maryland for yourself or a loved one with Down syndrome? Join us for a Virtual Open House where you can explore a wide range of housing services and residential programs—all in one convenient evening using Zoom breakout rooms.
IEP Clinic - RSVP
November 8 - 9:00 AM
Join us for a personalized IEP (Individualized Education Program) Clinic designed to support families and caregivers navigating the special education process. During this small group session, you'll have the opportunity to meet with experienced professionals who can review your child’s IEP, answer questions, and offer guidance tailored to your specific concerns.
Otolaryngology (ENT) & Down Syndrome: Key Considerations for Care - RSVP
November 18 - 7:00 PM
Join us for an informative session tailored for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Melinda "Nina" DeSell, an experienced Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from the Department of Otolaryngology at Johns Hopkins, will provide valuable insights into common ear, nose, and throat (ENT) concerns for individuals with Down syndrome.
Young Adult Hangout - Email
Wednesdays - 7:00 PM
Our young adults meet virtually weekly. Please email if you would like to join the group!
Cooking Class - Email
Sundays - 5:00 PM
Join DSAmd volunteer extraordinaires, Gabrielle and Michelle, as they host a weekly Zoom cooking class!
In-Person Events
Summer Music Group- Bel Air - RSVP
July 7- August 18
Discover exciting opportunities for all ages!
Youth 5:00–5:30 pm: Summertime Jam
Teens & Adults 5:30-6:15 pm: Drum Circle
Siblings welcome!
DSAmd Down to Box @ Unboxed- Timonium - Wednesday RSVP
July - September
DSAmd Down to Box provides individuals with Down Syndrome the essential tools to enhance coordination, develop self-defense skills, and improve physical fitness through boxing techniques.
Both sessions can join The Improvaneer Method, and on Fridays, there is yoga following Down to Box.
Special Olympics Maryland Men's Summit- Top Golf Baltimore - Get Tickets
July 12 - 10:00 AM
This workshop supports male Special Olympics athletes in building stronger
communication and self-advocacy skills. Through improvisational games and reflective discussion, participants will explore how to speak up, express boundaries, recognize emotions, and engage respectfully in group settings. The experience encourages connection, trust, and confidence—all within a supportive, creative space.
Hosted by DSAmd's De'Vonte Perry!
Annual Picnic- Timonium - RSVP
July 13 - 3:00 PM
Join us on Sunday, July 13, at Meadowood Regional Park (Timonium). Picnic activities will include light, individually packaged refreshments, an on-site playground, yard games, and a fun selfie station.
Welcome Social and Family Meetup- Rockfield Park, Bel Air - RSVP
July 26 - 10:00 AM
Join local families for a fun and welcoming Family Social and Meetup at Rockfield Park in Bel Air! This is a great opportunity for families to connect, share experiences, and enjoy a relaxing time together in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Welcome Social and Family Meetup- Airport Playground at Friendship Park, Glen Burnie - RSVP
July 27 - 12:00 PM
Join us at the Airport Playground! Fun for all ages—playground for littles, UNO for teens and adults to practice social skills. Drinks and juice provided. Bring a dessert to share. Airplane craft with straws included. All are welcome!
The Improvaneer Method- Howard County Library Central Branch
August 2 - 12:00 PM
Join Director Diamond for fun, creativity, and connection. Perfect for all skill levels!
The Improvaneer Method- Laurel - RSVP
August 3 - 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Each session combines the innovative Improvaneer Method with an additional creative art activity, offering a blend of fun, creativity, and connection. Perfect for all skill levels, this event is designed to inspire and entertain. During this event, DSAmd's Executive Director, Amanda will host office hours at Art Play Learn from 1:00-2:00 pm.
Teen and Adult Movie Meetup- Fallston - RSVP
August 14 - 10:00 AM
Join DSAmd for a Summer Movie Meetup!
Cool off this summer and enjoy a fun movie morning with your DSAmd friends at Horizon Cinemas in Fallston as part of their Summer Movie Series! Snack Pack included!
Complete your RSVP by July 28.
DSAmd Down to Box- Anne Arundel County
August - November
Teen and Adult Thursdays @ 6 PM
DSAmd Down to Box provides individuals with Down Syndrome the essential tools to enhance coordination, develop self-defense skills, and improve physical fitness through boxing techniques. Help us spread the word! We need at least 6 participants per class to keep our programming going.
Wild Kid Acres Meetup- Edgewater - RSVP
August 23 - 4:00 PM
Join us for an afternoon of fun on the farm at Wild Kid Acres! This inclusive event invites families to enjoy hands-on experiences with friendly animals, nature-based play, and time to connect with others in our community.
DSAmd Down to Box @ Unboxed- Timonium
October- December
Wednesdays Youth/teen @ 5- 5:30 PM
Fridays Teen & Adult @ 1:00 PM
DSAmd Down to Box provides individuals with Down Syndrome the essential tools to enhance coordination, develop self-defense skills, and improve physical fitness through boxing techniques.
Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk - Start a Team!
October 25
Step Up for Down Syndrome Baltimore (formerly The Baltimore Buddy Walk®) is central Maryland’s largest and most-recognized Down syndrome awareness event. Through this event and all of our work, we highlight that individuals with Down syndrome are vital and valued members of our larger communities. Step Up with Us!
Yinjas at YogaMouth Collective- Essex - Register
Wednesdays - 5:30 PM
Come test out your ninja skills! We'll have challenges the whole family can do together. No prior ninja experience is required!
Select DSAmd Membership or DSAmd Drop In at registration.
A Mother's Rest: Moms Retreat - Register
March 20-23, 2026
Please register by July 15, 2025, to confirm your room.
Treat yourself to a well-deserved break at The Terrace Guest House, the nation’s first year-round caregiver wellness inn, located in the heart of charming New Market, MD. This beautifully restored 1798 tavern offers a peaceful, cozy escape just for moms of children with Down syndrome.
Dads' Night Out - Email
2nd Wednesdays - 7:00 PM
Dads meet monthly at various locations. Email David if you are interested in joining.
DSAmd fuels this initiative financially, The Improvaneer Method provides the framework and Directors are paid to deliver the curriculum.
All sessions begin the week of July 6.
