Life Enhancement Program
The Life Enhancement Program (LEP) is open to all MADSS members and member families. The purpose of the LEP is to promote access to community, therapeutic, educational, and related activities and tools, and does so by offering direct reibursement and payment grants. Click here for more information and an application.
Bike Camp
Lose The Training Wheels™ is more than just a bike-riding program. For many children with disabilities it is a seemingly impossible task they can typically master in less than a week’s time. Within days of learning to ride, many children exhibit independent behaviours for the first time ever. This achievement, in turn, creates a gateway of opportunity, helping them gain assurance and self-reliance in many other aspects of their lives. For more information go to http://losethetrainingwheels.org/.
Please click here for a 5 minute movie from the the 2011 camp. Thank you to the LTTW staff and our volunteers for making this such a great experience.
HeartStrings
HeartStrings reaches beyond traditional learning environments to bring live, interactive performances by some of the Madison Symphony Orchestra's best players into healthcare and residential facilities. For more information go to www.madisonsymphony.org/heartstrings.
Many Strands
These are a series of discussions and talks designed to offer information on topics related to raising a child with Down syndrome.
Day with the Expert
This is a one day free conference held at the Waisman Center Auditorium to learn 'life course' information about Down syndrome from experienced doctors, medical professionals, self-advocates, and family members. An open panel discussion with the experts is held at the end of the conference for attendees to ask questions, voice concerns, and to share experiences.
All Family Events
MADSS hosts two all family events each year including pizza and movie nights and summer picnics.
0 to 5 Play Groups
The 0-5 Playgroup is designed for parents who have young children with Down Syndrome and their siblings. We hope to encourage social interaction between our little ones, and share support and information about local resources between parents.
Moms Take 5
On the 5th day of each month, the MADSS moms get together to connect, share resources and have a good time! Days of the week and time od day vary so we can accomodate everyone's schedule. Activities throughout the year have included getting together for dinner, meeting with a speaker, gthering for ice cream and some crafting.
DADS Group
MADSS sponsors this local chapter of DADS (Dads Appreciation Down Syndrome), a national group based in Indiana. They get together approximately every month and plan outings to the Mallards and Brewers, and other family activities.
Teen's Group
This group provides social events that encourage building of relationships with peers with Down syndrome, a peer-based support base for teens, and an environment where teens can have the time and support needed to work on communication skills with peers.
Gallery 21
Volunteer photographers shoot shoot photos of individuals with Down syndrome. The collection of photos and other art work are displayed at a local photography studio and at locations throughout South Central Wisconsin. These pieces provided the inspiration for a story book, glass etched pendant and note cards.