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Our Story
The roots of MDSS Social Club go back to 2006, when a group of parents seeking social opportunities for their teens with Down syndrome approached MDSS for support. Around the same time, friends of Lisa Mitchell - a beloved young MDSS member battling cancer - came together to fundraise for a cause close to her heart: creating social opportunities for teens and young adults with Down syndrome.
The funds raised in Lisa's honour became the seed money for Livewires, our very first social club. Twelve participants began meeting two Saturday evenings each month, with paid staff, enthusiastic volunteers, and - most importantly - no parents! Sadly, Lisa lost her battle with cancer, but her legacy lives on in every laugh, friendship, and memory made at MDSS Social Club.
In 2014, growing demand led to the creation of a second club, Dynomite, giving a new group of teens the same incredible social experiences. Both clubs began incorporating fun outings - mini-golf, bowling, movies - into their programming throughout the year.
By 2016, Livewires and Dynomite merged into a single, larger, and more dynamic club, opening the door to even more new friendships and shared experiences.
Then came Covid. The karaoke nights, basketball, board games, crafts, and hangouts that made Social Club so special came to an abrupt halt. But our wonderfully creative staff quickly adapted, bringing Social Club into an online format through Zoom - ensuring participants could stay connected with their friends even during the most challenging of times.
As restrictions lifted in 2022-2023, Social Club embraced a blend of virtual meetings and in-person outings. We are proud to have returned to a fully in-person format in 2023-2024, and we couldn't be more excited for what's ahead.
Registration
Social Club registration is currently open to existing members only, as we are at maximum capacity. If you are interested in joining the waitlist or learning more about future availability, please contact our office.
E-mail: info@manitobadownsyndromesociety.com
Phone: 204-992-2731
Social Club is more than a program - it's a community. And it all started with one young woman's dream of belonging.
Contact Us
1680 Notre Dame Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R3H 1H3
x 204-992-2731
A info@manitobadownsyndromesociety.com
