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PRODID:-//Down Syndrome Network - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN
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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Down Syndrome Network
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DTSTART:20230101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240107T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240107T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20240104T231736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T191002Z
UID:10000236-1704621600-1704628800@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Down to Earth Garden Program Winter 2024
DESCRIPTION:  \nSteps to Sign Up:\n1. Register & Sign Waiver of Release\n2. Select a slot for an upcoming garden day on the weekly attendance sheet\nRegister to Dig into the Down to Earth Garden \nWeekly Attendance Sheet (First Come First Serve)
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/down-to-earth-garden-program-fall-2023-2-2/2024-01-07/
LOCATION:Spaces of Opportunity\, 1200 W Vineyard\, Phoenix\, AZ\, 85041\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240113T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240113T111500
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20231221T203245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T190940Z
UID:10000321-1705141800-1705144500@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Adaptive Zumba
DESCRIPTION:DSNetwork is offering FREE classes with Zumba® Adapted Dance Fitness instructor\, Susan Alonzo! \nThese classes are designed for individuals ages 8 or older with Down syndrome who love music\, dance\, friends\, and parties! Learn cool dance moves while exercising to a variety of fun beats from Latin American hits and international grooves\, to pop music and more! These classes are easy to follow\, yet fun and challenging for all who attend. \nParent or caregiver to remain at the event and are encouraged to join in the dance fitness fun! \nWhat to Wear: Participants should wear comfortable clothing\, athletic shoes. No hard-soled shoes\, sandals or flip-flops please. \nWhat to Bring: Water bottle \nRegister for Zumba 
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/adaptive-zumba/2024-01-13/
LOCATION:DSNetwork Enrichment Center\, 1445 E Guadalupe Rd Suite 103\, Tempe\, AZ\, 85283-3953\, United States
CATEGORIES:Tweens & Teens Up,Xcell Adults (18+)
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240114T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240114T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20240104T231736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T191002Z
UID:10000237-1705226400-1705233600@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Down to Earth Garden Program Winter 2024
DESCRIPTION:  \nSteps to Sign Up:\n1. Register & Sign Waiver of Release\n2. Select a slot for an upcoming garden day on the weekly attendance sheet\nRegister to Dig into the Down to Earth Garden \nWeekly Attendance Sheet (First Come First Serve)
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/down-to-earth-garden-program-fall-2023-2-2/2024-01-14/
LOCATION:Spaces of Opportunity\, 1200 W Vineyard\, Phoenix\, AZ\, 85041\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240116T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240116T200000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20231204T221731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231204T221731Z
UID:10000258-1705428000-1705435200@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:D.A.D.S. Group
DESCRIPTION:January 16\, 6-8 pm \nD.A.D.S. (Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome) provides a time and place for dads and other male caregivers of a loved one with Down syndrome to come together and support each other. The group has meetings each month to discuss aspects of Down syndrome\, listen to speakers and talk about our kids. \nLocation: Old Spaghetti Factory in downtown Phoenix 1418 N. Central Ave\, Phoenix\, AZ 85004 \n*DADS are responsible for their own dinner \nRSVP FOR DADS APPRECIATING DOWN SYNDROME 
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/d-a-d-s-group-4/
LOCATION:Old Spaghetti Factory\, 1418 N Central Ave\, Phoenix\, 85004
CATEGORIES:D.A.D.S.
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240120T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240120T133000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20240111T203259Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T190751Z
UID:10000342-1705752000-1705757400@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Buddy Up Tennis
DESCRIPTION:All athletes must register and pay online. New athletes (those who did not participate in the 2023 sessions) must then complete the Buddy Up for Life Application and Release Form. \nYou are not considered registered until all forms are submitted. \nStep 1: Register for Buddy Up Tennis \nStep 2: COMPLETE APPLICATION & RELEASE \n  \nVolunteer Buddies Wanted!\nStep 1: BECOME A VOLUNTEER BUDDY \nStep 2: Buddy Application & Background Check  \n  \nLearn more about Buddy Up for Life’s Tennis Program at https://buddyupforlife.org/tennis/\n*Scholarships available at https://dsnetworkaz.org/give/cj-udall-scholarships/
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/buddy-up-tennis-3/2024-01-20/
LOCATION:Indian School Park & Tennis Center\, 4289 N Hayden Rd\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85251\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fitness & Exercise
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240121T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240121T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20240104T231736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T191002Z
UID:10000238-1705831200-1705838400@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Down to Earth Garden Program Winter 2024
DESCRIPTION:  \nSteps to Sign Up:\n1. Register & Sign Waiver of Release\n2. Select a slot for an upcoming garden day on the weekly attendance sheet\nRegister to Dig into the Down to Earth Garden \nWeekly Attendance Sheet (First Come First Serve)
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/down-to-earth-garden-program-fall-2023-2-2/2024-01-21/
LOCATION:Spaces of Opportunity\, 1200 W Vineyard\, Phoenix\, AZ\, 85041\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20240122T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20240122T181500
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20231204T221327Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240206T213336Z
UID:10000419-1705944600-1705947300@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Club Xtra - Start With Music
DESCRIPTION:DSNetwork is partnering with Higher Octave Healing for “Start with Music” a research-based\, parent-child developmental music program for all children with Down syndrome age 7 and under and their caregivers. During this 4-week course\, participants will engage in a variety of songs and music games designed to support aspects of healthy development including socialization\, communication\, and pre-academic skills. \nAll classes are led by a Board-Certified Music Therapist specially trained to work with young children. Each participant will also receive their own instrument kit to use in class and take home with them to keep. Come make music with us! \nFree. \nRegister Here 
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/club-xtra-start-with-music/2024-01-22/
LOCATION:DSNetwork Enrichment Center\, 1445 E Guadalupe Rd Suite 103\, Tempe\, AZ\, 85283-3953\, United States
CATEGORIES:Club Xtra (0-7)
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240127T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240127T133000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20240111T203259Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T190751Z
UID:10000343-1706356800-1706362200@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Buddy Up Tennis
DESCRIPTION:All athletes must register and pay online. New athletes (those who did not participate in the 2023 sessions) must then complete the Buddy Up for Life Application and Release Form. \nYou are not considered registered until all forms are submitted. \nStep 1: Register for Buddy Up Tennis \nStep 2: COMPLETE APPLICATION & RELEASE \n  \nVolunteer Buddies Wanted!\nStep 1: BECOME A VOLUNTEER BUDDY \nStep 2: Buddy Application & Background Check  \n  \nLearn more about Buddy Up for Life’s Tennis Program at https://buddyupforlife.org/tennis/\n*Scholarships available at https://dsnetworkaz.org/give/cj-udall-scholarships/
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/buddy-up-tennis-3/2024-01-27/
LOCATION:Indian School Park & Tennis Center\, 4289 N Hayden Rd\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85251\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fitness & Exercise
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240128T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240128T120000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20240104T231736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T191002Z
UID:10000239-1706436000-1706443200@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Down to Earth Garden Program Winter 2024
DESCRIPTION:  \nSteps to Sign Up:\n1. Register & Sign Waiver of Release\n2. Select a slot for an upcoming garden day on the weekly attendance sheet\nRegister to Dig into the Down to Earth Garden \nWeekly Attendance Sheet (First Come First Serve)
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/down-to-earth-garden-program-fall-2023-2-2/2024-01-28/
LOCATION:Spaces of Opportunity\, 1200 W Vineyard\, Phoenix\, AZ\, 85041\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20240129T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20240129T181500
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20231204T221327Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240206T213336Z
UID:10000420-1706549400-1706552100@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Club Xtra - Start With Music
DESCRIPTION:DSNetwork is partnering with Higher Octave Healing for “Start with Music” a research-based\, parent-child developmental music program for all children with Down syndrome age 7 and under and their caregivers. During this 4-week course\, participants will engage in a variety of songs and music games designed to support aspects of healthy development including socialization\, communication\, and pre-academic skills. \nAll classes are led by a Board-Certified Music Therapist specially trained to work with young children. Each participant will also receive their own instrument kit to use in class and take home with them to keep. Come make music with us! \nFree. \nRegister Here 
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/club-xtra-start-with-music/2024-01-29/
LOCATION:DSNetwork Enrichment Center\, 1445 E Guadalupe Rd Suite 103\, Tempe\, AZ\, 85283-3953\, United States
CATEGORIES:Club Xtra (0-7)
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20240130T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20240130T190000
DTSTAMP:20260501T191544
CREATED:20240108T005502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240131T015413Z
UID:10000332-1706637600-1706641200@dsnetworkaz.org
SUMMARY:Level Up Webinar: Housing
DESCRIPTION:Join Us – Live Webinar on Housing\nTue\, Jan 30\, 2024 @ 6:00pm\nNavigating the path to suitable housing for your loved ones with Down syndrome can be an intricate journey\, filled with questions\, uncertainties\, and the desire for the best possible future. At our upcoming Housing Webinar\, we recognize the confusion parents and caregivers often face while seeking the right solutions.\n\nJoin us on January 30th at 6pm for an enlightening discussion as we unravel the complexities of housing options. Our panel of experts\, including Jen Murphree from Rainbow Acres\, Donald Harrington in social work\, Coley Schaan Amaro from Luna Azul\, and Megan Akens from DDD will share insights to demystify the process. \nWe understand the importance of your questions and encourage active participation from family members and the community. Together\, we will explore the optimal age to embark on this journey\, providing a roadmap for what to expect throughout the housing process. \nLet’s come together to transform confusion into clarity\, creating a foundation for informed decisions and a brighter future for individuals with Down syndrome. Get involved in the conversation\, submit your questions and join us in shaping the discussion on housing solutions. Your voice matters in building a community that supports every individual’s unique journey. Save the date!! #HousingWebinar #DownSyndromeJourney #InformedDecisions \n\nRegister Here  \n\nMEET THE PANELISTS\n\n\n\nDonald Harrington\nWith over a decade of dedicated service in the field of social work and human services\, Donald Harrington is a seasoned professional with a passion for empowering individuals and families. Currently serving as a Licensing Worker at Fostering Hope LLC\, he plays a pivotal role in conducting interviews\, completing home studies\, and managing initial licensing paperwork to ensure families are well-prepared for the fostering journey.\n\nIn his previous role at My Home LLC\, Donald excelled as a Licensing Worker\, overseeing the compliance of 12 families with stringent DDD and AHCCCS regulations. He demonstrated exceptional skills in report submission\, behavioral treatment planning\, and providing critical training to families. \nAs a Case Manager at Working Alternatives Inc\, Donald supervised a caseload of over 26 inmates\, offering invaluable support during their transition back into society. This experience honed his ability to navigate complex situations and provide essential resources for successful reintegration. \nDonald’s educational background includes a degree in Sociology and Criminology from Missouri State University\, showcasing his commitment to understanding the social dynamics that shape our communities. \nBeyond professional endeavors\, Donald is an active member of the community\, serving on boards such as the Page Regional Domestic Violence Center and volunteering with various committees\, including the DDD IOC Board for Northern Arizona. \nWith a wealth of experience\, a genuine passion for advocacy\, and a proven track record of making a positive impact\, Donald brings a unique perspective to the discussion on housing options for individuals with Down syndrome. He also proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1979 to 1983\, embodying a spirit of dedication and service. \nWe are excited to have Donald join us and share his expertise and insights during our upcoming webinar on housing solutions for individuals with Down syndrome. \nDonald R Harrington\n\n928 640 7901\nDon@fosteringhope.net\n\n\n\n\nJen Murphree\nDirector of Admissions\, Rainbow Acres\n\nJen Murphree was raised in the Southwest by two special educators and has had a lifelong commitment to those with special needs. Her passion is helping families realize their dream for their loved ones. Jen has served adults with special needs in a residential setting since 2001. She previously served as a direct support residential staff member as well as Activities Coordinator at Riverview School on Cape Cod in Massachusetts and as a founding staff member and Personal Finance Coordinator at Casa de Amma in San Juan Capistrano\, California. \nJen joined Rainbow Acres in 2013 and served as an Admissions Counselor before becoming Director of Admissions. Jen believes that God has called her to a life of service to individuals with developmental disabilities. Jen received her Bachelor’s degrees in International Affairs and Spanish from Northern Arizona University and her Master’s degree in Leadership from Grand Canyon University. Jen has two sons and a devoted husband who loves to hike in the woods and play games in their spare time. \nJen Murphree\n928-567-5231\njen@rainbowacres.org\n\n\n\nAbout Rainbow Acres \nRainbow Acres is a Christian residential community located in the heart of Arizona. As a nonprofit organization founded in 1974\, Rainbow Acres is celebrating 50 years of service to neurodiverse adults. The residents are 18+ with a primary diagnosis of a developmental disability. Rainbow Acres is a private-pay organization offering individualized living and health plans. This starts with helping the residents set appropriate goals to stretch and grow in physical and emotional health\, education\, vocational skills\, money management\, and semi-independent living. Residents most commonly have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder\, Down Syndrome\, developmental delay\, ADHD\, birth hypoxia\, bipolar disorder\, Asperger’s\, anxiety\, depression\, and other rare disorders. \nThe milieu needs daily support but is ready to grow in their relationships\, self-care\, meaningful work\, and hobbies like animals\, greenhouse gardening\, painting\, weaving\, fine arts\, music\, and all types of educational opportunities on a ranch-style campus. The residents volunteer within the local community and attend a myriad of events. Residents are coached in the executive functioning\, emotional wellness\, and life skills they need to succeed in adulthood. Rainbow Acres advocates for people throughout their lifespans within an assisted living license. The program includes medical and vocational support both on and off-site. \nIt’s a place where friends become family\, and Rainbow Acres becomes home. \nNow accepting applicants for 2024. Rainbowacres.com \n Megan Akens\nMegan Akens has been at the forefront of affordable housing initiatives as the Affordable Housing Supervisor for the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) since the program’s inception in 2017. Her journey within DDD began in the Central Office\, where she contributed significantly as part of the Deputy Assistant Director’s team. Prior to that\, Megan played a pivotal role in Quality Assurance\, monitoring Developmental Homes and Group Homes while meticulously reviewing incident reports from Qualified Vendor Agencies. \nIn the last year\, the DDD Affordable Housing unit\, Megan assisted in successfully securing $1\,640\,714 in subsidies from various organizations on behalf of 101 DDD members. This accomplishment underscores Megan’s commitment to ensuring accessible housing for individuals within the program. \nMegan is equipped with a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Western International University\, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management and Spanish from Charter Oak State University. Her educational background speaks to her holistic approach in addressing organizational and community needs. \nMegan brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for her work. Her strategic role in the Affordable Housing unit reflects her dedication to empowering individuals and families within the Division of Developmental Disabilities. Megan’s unique perspective and proven track record make her an invaluable asset in the ongoing discussion on housing solutions for individuals with diverse needs. \nWe look forward to Megan’s continued contributions and insights as we navigate the complex landscape of affordable housing\, ensuring that individuals like those within the DDD community have the support they need. \nMegan Akens\nddhousinggeneralinfo@azdes.gov\nDDDCustomerServiceCenter@azdes.gov\nCall Toll free: 1 (844) 770-9500\nTTY/TDD: 711\nFax: (602) 542-6870\n\n \nColey Schaan Amaro\nColey Schaan Amaro is a dedicated professional with a strong commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals at Luna Azul’s residential community for adults with disabilities. As the Executive Director at Luna Azul since May 2023\, Coley has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s vision and mission for the past 9 months. Based in Phoenix\, Arizona\, Coley oversees on-site operations\, demonstrating a hands-on approach to leadership.\nPrior to Luna Azul\, Coley served as the Resident Experience and Operations Officer at Treasure House Phoenix for an impressive 6 years and 3 months from April 2017 to June 2023. In this role\, Coley played a crucial part in creating a positive and enriching environment for residents. The experience honed Coley’s skills in customer experience\, leadership\, and other valuable attributes.\nWith a background as a Director of Operations\, Coley brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Coley’s passion for enhancing resident experiences and optimizing operational efficiency is evident throughout her career. Coley’s commitment to excellence and dedication to the well-being of individuals in residential settings make them a valuable panelist\, contributing a unique perspective to discussions on housing and operational strategies.\n\nColey Schaan Amaro\ncoley@lunaphx.com\ncell: 602-303-4440
URL:https://dsnetworkaz.org/event/level-up-webinar-housing/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Level Up! Webinar Series
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