Okanagan Workshops + Groups
The Down Syndrome Resource Foundation is pleased to offer groups and workshops in the Okanagan area under the leadership of Jillian Baldwin, RSLP. Below is information on currently available services. To register for any of these groups and workshops, please click here.
Jillian, a registered Speech and Language Pathologist, has been a part of the DSRF team since 2014. She specializes in working with individuals with Down syndrome of all ages, with experience providing one-to-one therapy, facilitating groups and classes, and presenting to small and large audiences. Jillian is very excited to extend the quality services of the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation to families around the Okanagan!
Employment: The Gold Standard for Inclusion
Aja Masters, DSRF’s Employment Specialist, will be visiting Kelowna to host a presentation for families of people with Down syndrome of all ages on Employment: The Gold Standard for Inclusion.
It is never too early to start thinking about employment and how you can provide opportunities from an early age for future employment success. Presuming competence and raising expectations for people with disabilities is one place to start! We will discuss the importance of:
- Preparing early for employment success at home and school
- Basic literacy and numeracy
- Providing opportunities, from an early age, for problem-solving, teamwork, and learning to learn
- Volunteering, work experience, and paid work opportunities
- Learning about programs in your community that support access to employment
The presentation will be 1.5 hours, followed by time for networking with local parents and discussing DSRF services in the Okanagan. Jillian Baldwin, DSRF’s Speech-Language Pathologist in Kelowna, will also be in attendance. It will be a great opportunity to discuss local programs with Jillian and connect with other families.
Date: May 20, 2025
Time: 7:00-9:00 pm
Location: Rotary Centre of the Arts, 421 Cawston Ave, Kelowna
Cost: FREE
Questions? Please feel free to email aja@dsrf.org
Teen Summer Social Circle
The Social Circle is a social group for teens with Down syndrome, facilitated by a Speech-Language Pathologist. The objective is to provide a safe space where teens can connect with their peers, build new friendships, and practice their social communication skills in a relaxed atmosphere!
Dates: Jul 8 – Aug 12 (Tuesdays only)
Time: 10:00-10:45 am
Location: 1580 Bernard Ave. Kelowna, BC
Ages: 13-19
Cost: $20 per session or $120 for all 6
Questions? Please feel free to email jillian@dsrf.org
Tiny Talkers
Parents and their child with Down syndrome, ages 5 and under, will be coached to foster communication development through interactive play, singing, and reading, with a focus on implementing user-friendly sign language. This will also provide the opportunity for local parents and their children to connect with each other in a fun and supportive environment!
Monthly interactive 45-minute classes will take place on the first Tuesday morning of each month at Starbright in Kelowna, from September 2024 to June 2025.
Cost: FREE
Questions? Please feel free to email jillian@dsrf.org