Our Programs

Our programs, services and supports help create a brighter future for people with Down syndrome.

UP! Club Logo

We are dedicated to providing capacity building and community participation opportunities for adults with Down syndrome, enabling them to learn, engage, and connect. Our programs focus on reducing isolation, fostering further education, skill-building, promoting independence, and assisting with future planning.  

At the heart of our programs is a deep commitment to the well-being and growth of every individual with Down syndrome. By providing opportunities for learning, socialisation, and skill development, we strive to create an inclusive society where all individuals can thrive and be valued for their unique contributions.  

Live Music & Chats

Day/Time: Friday, 3:30pm-5:30pm, Weekly
Price: $110 
Program Description: Focus on strategies for personal development and strengthening relationships, as well as boosting your wellness through music.  

Goals/Outcomes:  

  • Develop communication skills with group members, enhance social skills and build and strengthen relationships and friendships with peers. 
  • Navigate social situations and understand appropriate social boundaries. 
  • Identify and express personal strengths, interests, and preferences. 
  • Enhance active listening skills for better understanding and communication.
  • Develop and practice strategies to boost self-esteem and self-confidence. 
  • Demonstrate expression of self through music.  

Facilitator: Nikki Hayhurst, Social Worker and Former Up! Club Co-Ordinator. Nikki is our fun loving Up! Club Facilitator that has a passion for group work and our Up! Clubbers. 

Saturday Night Fever

Day/Time: Weekly, Saturdays 6pm-9pm, Weekly 
Price: $195 
Program Description: Explore the expression of art through a fun night of dancing, singing, personal interests and the benefits of music for health and well-being.   

Goals/Outcomes:  

  • Develop communication skills with group members, enhance social skills and build and strengthen relationships with peers. 
  • Recognise the connection between physical activity/dance and positive mental health. 
  • Explore different music genres and dance styles, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation for diversity. 
  • Practice making choices related to dance styles, song selections, and discussion topics, enhance decision-making skills and autonomy. 
  • Explore the feelings associated with different music styles and understand how to apply the use of music therapy in daily living. 
  • Utilise dance as a form of emotional expression, promoting self-awareness and emotional regulation. 

Facilitator: Aly Green, a long-term and favourite Up! Clubber. Aly has been bringing the vibes every Saturday Night Fever to ensure our members have a fun but safe and respectful night in. 

Culture Club

Day/Time: Every Second Saturday or Sunday of the month (6 hours)  
Price: $390-$480 
Program Description: Explore as a group to engage in the local community and participate in social and recreational activities.  

Goals/Outcomes:   

  • Communicate with group members, learning social skills and building friendships   
  • Develop skills to navigate and participate in the local community, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion. 
  • Enhance the ability to initiate and maintain positive social interactions with peers, community members, and service providers. 
  • Develop self-advocacy skills by expressing needs and preferences. 
  • Strengthen daily living skills, including decision-making, time management, and personal responsibility, to promote independence. 
  • Develop skills to independently access and utilize community services, such as public transportation, recreational facilities, and local amenities. 
  • Develop basic money management skills for transactions during community outings to promote financial independence. 
  • Engage in collaborative activities with peers, community members, and service providers to promote teamwork and a sense of community.

Facilitators: Our amazing Up! Club Team 

Travel Club

Day/Time: Last weekend of the month
Price: ~$700/night 
Program Description: Explore the beautiful NSW by commuting and staying overnight with our Up! Club team and members. We always have a lot of activities organised for the trips to have fun and develop social and independent skills!  

Goals/Outcomes:   

  • Communicate with group members, learning social skills and building friendships   
  • Increase independence in engaging in community, social and recreational activities   
  • Adapt social skills to different community contexts, including restaurants, public transportation, and recreational venues. 
  • Develop basic money management skills for transactions during community outings, fostering financial independence. 
  • Engage in collaborative activities with peers, community members, and service providers to promote teamwork and a sense of community. 
  • Participate in a variety of recreational activities to promote physical health, well-being, and the development of leisure skills. 
  • Enhance the ability to initiate and maintain positive social interactions with peers, community members, and service providers. 
  • Develop self-advocacy skills by expressing needs and preferences.  

Facilitator: Our amazing Up! Club team 

Camps

Day/Time: Twice per year (Winter and Summer); Friday to Sunday  

Price: ~$2000  

Program Description: A blend of recreational adventures, skill-building workshops, and a supportive community fostering personal growth and joyous connections . 

Goals/Outcomes:  

  • Enhance positive social interactions and strengthen and build friendships with peers through group activities, team challenges, and shared experiences. 
  • Develop independence and autonomy in decision-making and engaging in community, social and recreational activities.   
  • Engage in team-building challenges to develop effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. 
  • Navigate social situations and understand appropriate social boundaries. 
  • Contribute to an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity, encouraging acceptance and understanding among participants.
  • Develop adaptability by participating in a variety of activities, adjusting to different challenges, and learning new skills.
  • Participate in educational workshops that stimulate curiosity, learning, and personal growth. 
  • Develop time management skills by participating in scheduled activities and workshops. 
  • Illuminate the sense of joy and enthusiasm through participation in recreational activities, workshops, and creative endeavours. 

Facilitator: Our amazing Up! Club team  

 

Program Calendars

UP! club Calendar - April 2024

UP! club Calendar - April 2024

Download
UP! club Calendar - May 2024

UP! club Calendar - May 2024

Download
UP! Club Calendar - June 2024

UP! Club Calendar - June 2024

Download
person_outline

Volunteer

Read more about how you can make a difference as a volunteer at Down Syndrome NSW.

apps

Become a Member

Actively contribute to our mission of creating a more inclusive and accepting society for individuals with Down syndrome.

Stay Updated

Follow us on social media for the latest news!