March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM): Theme: “We’re Here All Year.”
World Down Syndrome Day: Tomorrow (March 21st) is World Down Syndrome Day. World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on the 21st day of the 3rd month to represent the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down Syndrome. Watch Boden’s video, as an individual with Down Syndrome and his mom share how their lives are better with him in it. A transcript is also available.
Charting the LifeCourse: Planning with people who have intellectual/developmental disabilities is essential in helping achieve the life they desire. The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) offers planning tools and resources, available to anyone involved in planning for themselves or others to reach their Good Life. The framework and tools help organize ideas, vision, and goals, as well as problem-solve, navigate and advocate for supports. Check out Lifecourse learning at Charting the LifeCourse Learning.
YMCA Rock Your Socks Event Celebrates DD Awareness Month: Friday, March 21 from 1-3pmJoin us at the Riverchase YMCA, 990 Horan Drive, Fenton, MO, 63026. Join us for guest speakers, a parent panel, sock creations, light refreshments, raffles, and lots of fun as we celebrate DD Awareness Month. Contact Meredith for more information: 314-421-8906 or [email protected] ~ Flyer
Recreation Council News…
Spring into Transition Summit: DATE: Saturday, March 22 from 10am-2pm at the UMSL Campus’ ED-Collabitat, 2993 South Drive, St. Louis, MO 63121. The Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis, The Office of Inclusive Postsecondary Education, and MPACT – Missouri Parents Act are hosting this one-day event with breakout sessions, resources, and vendors showcasing their services for the youth with disabilities transitioning to adulthood. Information at 314-516-5915. FLYER HERE ~ More Information Here
“An Evening of Entertainment – A Competitive Spotlight on Abilities” Talent Show: DATE: Saturday, March 29, 2025 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm. LOCATION: Ladue Horton Watkins High School, 1201 South Warson Dr., St. Louis, MO 63124. Suggested donation of $10 per person. Hosted by The Recreation Council and Access for ALL, we have a fabulous line up of talented performers with disabilities who are ready to entertain and delight you. Acts include music, dancing, poetry reading, magic, comedy, and more. Proceeds Benefit the Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis Scholarship Fund. Information Here
News for People with Disabilities…
Parent Wellness Retreat (STL), March 29, 2025 from 9am-12noon at Affton Community Center, 9801 MacKenzie Rd, Affton, MO 63123. Cost is $35 registration fee and $10 childcare registration. The Freddie Ford Family Foundation is hosting a transformative Wellness Retreat for Autism Parents, designed to empower caregivers with tools to prioritize their well-being through self-care, physical activity, mindfulness, and nutrition. This unique retreat will serve 50 parents and caregivers who dedicate their lives to caring for children with autism through engaging and interactive activities. This retreat will provide these unsung heroes with the respite, skills, and encouragement they deserve. Register HERE
Survey for People with Disabilities and their Families: The Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC) is partnering with the University of Missouri—Kansas City, Institute for Human Development (UMKC-IHD) to conduct a statewide needs assessment. Your feedback will be used to help develop a 5-year plan to improve services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Take the Survey Here
Previously listed…
- Ukeru Family Training, Thursday, March 20, 2025; TIME: 8:00am-4:30pm. Cost:$175 per person, $300 for 2 participants. More Information
- YMCA Miracle League Adapted Baseball League (STL), League plays from April 5-May 24, 2025. Cost: $40. Information on YMCA Adapted Sports
- Sensory Friendly Nights at the ZOO “Animals Aglow” (STL), March 23 & April 9 from 6:30-9:30pm at the St. Louis Zoom in Forest Park. COST: $16.95 per person. Buy Tickets here ~ Event Information
Events for Everyone…
Enter to win a free summer camp experience at Saint Louis University: Whether your child loves exploring the creative arts or diving into STEM subjects, Summer At SLU offers a diverse range of camps for youth in grades Kindergarten to High School Seniors. Camps take place on the SLU campus June–August and sessions are typically one-week long. The winner will win one free camp of their choice. Visit the website to see all the exciting weeks we offer. Giveaway runs through March 23, 2025. Enter Here
Events at the St. Louis ZOO: Sea Lion Spring Training, Daily through March 30 at 1pm and 3pm. COST IS $2 PER PERSON. Sea lion care staff will get the pinnipeds in shape for the season by practicing high jumps, flipper walks, high dives, powerful swimming and other acrobatic and athletic behaviors. Information. Breakfast with Bunny, April 5, 6, 12, 13, & 19 from 8-9:30am. COST: $22-$24 youth, $40-$44 adults. Hop into spring by bringing your family to enjoy Breakfast with Bunny at the Saint Louis Zoo’s McDonnell Center at River Camp. Seats are limited. Information
Family Nights at The Magic House (STL), Friday, March 21 from 5-8pm at The Magic House, 516 S. Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, MO 63122. These special nights enable a family (up to two adults and four children) to visit the Museum for FREE. Event repeats monthly. Space is limited. Information
Third Degree Glass Factory “Third Friday” (STL), Friday, March 21 from 6-10 pm at 3rd Degree Glass, 5200 Delmar Blvd, St Louis, MO, Come watch glass art displays by local artists, glassblowing demonstrations, live entertainment, eats and drinks for purchase, and more! It is FREE to attend. Information
Historic Village Open House in Faust Park (STL), Saturday & Sunday, March 22 & 23 from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm at Faust Park, 15185 Olive Street Road, Chesterfield, MO, 63017. Visitors to the park will be able to see the interiors of buildings in the Village and get a glimpse of what life was like for the residents of St. Louis County during the latter half of the 1800’s. Guides in period dress will be available to answer questions about the buildings and the heritage gardens. FREE and open to the public. Information
Cardinals Baseball Opening Day Watch Party at Westport Plaza (STL), Thursday, March 27 from 12 noon – 6pm at Westport Plaza, 111 West Port Plaza Drive, St. Louis, MO 63146. The party kicks off at noon with a live performance by Dirty Muggs, keeping the crowd pumped right up to the first pitch. At 3:15pm, the game goes live on one of the largest outdoor screens in West County—so you won’t miss a single swing. Purchase ballpark-style bites and cold drinks from your favorite Westport Plaza restaurants, and rally with fellow fans all afternoon long. It’s game time. Let’s go Cardinals! Information
Recreation Council Reminders…
- Voucher Funding for Summer Overnight Camps…Click here for information on funding assistance
- Recreation Council’s Annual EVENING OF ENTERTAINMENT – Information
- 2025 Summer Opportunities Guide: www.recreationcouncil.org/summer-2025
- Camp Summit Videos: www.recreationcouncil.org/summer-2025
Websites to find more events…
- Metro St. Louis-St. Charles, MO attractions: www.explorestlouis.com
- Around Town for Teenagers: www.explorestlouis.com
- Festivals, Music, Art in the Metro: www.stlouisarts.org/music-festivals
- St. Louis County Parks: Registration ~ Activity Guide
- St. Louis County Parks: www.stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/parks
- Explore St. Louis, MO: www.stltoday.com/events
- STL Magazine Family Fun: www.stlmag.com/family
- Kids Out and About: www.saintlouis.kidsoutandabout.com
- Fun 4 STL Kids: www.fun4stlkids.com/calendar
- Missouri Department of Conservation – www.mdc.mo.gov/events
- Michael’s Craft Store classes: www.michaels.com/classes
- Virtual Events: www.eventbrite.com
- Best Hiking Trails around St. Louis / St. Charles Metro area: www.hikingproject.com
- Free places to visit by STL Today: www.graphics.stltoday.com/maps/essential-st-louis
- Magic Mini Golf in the Delmar Loop