Zdenek Enrichment FundInherent to the mission of the Centre Region Down Syndrome Society (CRDSS) is the goal of providing financial support so people who have Down syndrome can participate in activities that improve their lives. Since its inception, the Enrichment Fund has awarded families with a diversity of support, such as funding for adaptive equipment and activities such as horseback riding, swimming lessons, karate classes, bowling, art classes, dance lessons, gymnastics and more. CRDSS is pleased to empower families to participate in activities that enrich the lives of their loved ones.
Community ConnectionsCommunity Connections is a partnership with Centre County YMCA to present a whole-life program creating an environment and organized activities providing Social, Emotional, Physical, and Educational journeys and experiences for adults ages 18+ with a disability. We are pleased to support this program and encourage more individuals with disabilities to engage in these activities to enrich their lives. The program takes place weekly at the Bellefonte YMCA on Wednesdays.
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Challenger BaseballA CRDSS Supported ProgramThe Little League Challenger Division was founded in 1989 and is Little League’s adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges, not only those who have Down syndrome. The program accommodates players ages 4 to 18; or up to age 22 if still enrolled in school. Each participant receives a team t-shirt and hat. Bats and helmets are provided for use during the games. Registration for the local State College Challenger League is FREE and is typically open from mid-January through March. The games are played in May & June.
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Knowledge ForumThe Knowledge Forum is a volunteer-run effort to identify and develop topical programs on a variety of issues helpful to families, caregivers and people in our community. The format is meant to be a flexible platform that can offer both open-forum roundtables and expert presentations, focusing on complex issues that affect people at every stage of life—from IEP/ early intervention advice for young children to legal matters facing our adult children. We will present a variety of perspectives: expert advice from professionals as well as personal testimonies and journeys of members of our community. Workshops will be scheduled throughout the year and we are always open to suggestions for topics.
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New Family Support, Education & ResourcesWe offer immediate support & information to expecting and new families with a baby born with Down syndrome, and initiate and welcome these families into our community. Our support network and continued education through year-round programming offers important up-to-date information with a suite of online learning workshops & presentations. We also act as a Down syndrome resource to regional medical centers.
Contact us for Individualized Support |
Special Olympics PennsylvaniaThe mission of Special Olympics PA is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community. All training and competition opportunities are provided free of charge to the athletes and their families, enabling everyone to experience the benefits of Special Olympics that extend well beyond the playing field.
Summer Games at Penn State University |
A CRDSS Supported Program
NDSC ConventionEach year, thousands of people from across the globe attend the NDSC Annual Convention. For most, it’s to hear the latest information from world-renowned experts. For others, it’s a great time away with family to enrich lives. However, for nearly all, it is the one-of-a-kind NDSC “giant family reunion” feeling that permeates the convention weekend that renews spirits and inspires renewed commitment. CRDSS is proud to provide support for members of our community to attend.
Apply for Enrichment Funds to Attend |