Southeast Missouri Programs & Services
The Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis’ service area includes the Southern Missouri region. Families that live in Ste. Genevieve, Perryville, Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Jackson, and surrounding areas can count on the support of the DSAGSL. Our Southeast Missouri Program Coordinator joined the DSAGSL team in July 2023 and is excited to provide more access to programs and services in Southeast Missouri than ever before.
Southeast Missouri Program Coordinator
Hello!
I can’t even explain how excited I am to join the DSAGSL team! My name is Maria and I recently graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Family Studies with an Art Minor from Southeast Missouri State University. I am also a certified Registered Behavior Technician and I have taken courses to be trauma informed.
My love for individuals with Down syndrome came at birth, as my twin brother was born with this special gift. My love for all people with Down syndrome and other unique abilities has been a part of who I am my entire life. This job means so much to me and is one way I celebrate my brother and honor his legacy.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, camping, being outdoors, painting, and sewing.
Please reach out to me anytime at Maria@dsagsl.org! I’d love to meet up for a chat, help out at an event, give a presentation at your child’s school, or provide support however I can. I look forward to meeting you all!
Upcoming Events
Heartland Community Group
Step Up for Down Syndrome Family Event
Saturday, October 7th from 10am-1pm
Capaha Park – 1400 Broadway Street in Cape Girardeau
Join the Heartland DSA Community Group and Party Like A Rockstar at this fun family event! Attendees with enjoy activities, crafts, games, music, food, bubbles, prizes, and more!
Families can start a team in honor of their loved one with Down syndrome! Fundraising is optional, and every dollar raised will be reinvested in the Southeast Missouri region.
If families would like to fundraise, please collect your donations and turn them to DSAGSL in one payment at dsagsl.org/donation. In the comments box on the donation page, please indicate that the donation is for the SEMO Walk and add your Team Name. You can also turn in donations at the event on October 7th.
We are also looking for volunteers to help with this event! Several volunteer jobs available from helping with games and crafts, or working at the food or registration table. This is a great opportunity for high school and college students looking for service hours.
Heartland Community Group
The Heartland Community Group and the amazing volunteers that run it, have been working together for several years to bring programs and services to families in the Southeast Missouri region. The group meets on the 2nd Saturday of every month from 10am-12pm at the Cape Girardeau Library and all parents and caregivers are invited to join at any time! During meetings, the group shares strategies and resources with one another, as well as plan events, meetups, educational opportunities, and so much more.
The group has a Facebook page dedicated to sharing information about upcoming events and programs in the area, as well as region-specific resources. You can also reach out to our Heartland Community Group leader, Claire Watson, at heartland_cg@dsagsl.org.
