Programs for School-Aged
Gateway DSA is the only agency in the region serving individuals with Down syndrome, and their families, through the entire lifespan. This includes school-aged individuals with Down syndrome. We offer programs related to education, as well as recreation, socialization, and important life skills.
ROCK21 - Fall Session 2026
Have you ever dreamed of performing on stage with a real band? ROCK21 gives teens and adults with Down syndrome the opportunity to learn, rehearse, and perform their favorite songs in an unforgettable live concert experience!
No previous musical experience or instrument knowledge is required! Just bring your enthusiasm and love of music!
If you’re 16 or older, ROCK21 is your chance to:
- Join a band and make new friends
- Learn and play your favorite songs
- Perform LIVE on stage with a professional sound system!
The registration fee is $100 and includes six rehearsals and the live concert performance. Scholarships are available to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Fall session rehearsals begin Friday, August 21. Families have a choice of either the Gateway Down Syndrome Association Headquarters in Brentwood, MO – or – St. Louis Life in O’Fallon, MO for rehearsal locations.
Registration is OPEN! Spots fill quickly, so be sure to register soon!
Questions? Contact Andi at andi@gatewaydsa.org.
Save the date for the ROCK21 Live Concert: Sunday, October 11th at Frankie Martin’s Garden in Cottleville, MO!
Buddy Up Tennis & Buddy Up Fitness
Gateway DSA has partnered with Buddy Up for Life to bring two awesome fitness programs to the Greater St. Louis area!
Buddy Up Tennis is a 90-minute tennis and fitness program specifically created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 10+. Buddy volunteers are partnered with Athletes to provide support, reinforce instruction, and develop friendships. No tennis experience required. The program is weekly on Sundays in Chesterfield.
Buddy Up Fitness is a 60-minute, HITT style workout created for individuals with Down syndrome ages 12+ focused on developing core strength, balance, and stability. Athletes individually progress through multiple levels of exercises as their endurance and strength improves.
Stay tuned for more info about upcoming 2026 classes.
Teen Socials
Gateway DSA will be hosting inclusive social events throughout the year! These events are for individuals with Down syndrome in middle and high school. Activities include board games, movie nights, group activities, and fun! Siblings and typical friends are welcome to join as volunteer buddies! Space is limited. Email Jordan@gatewaydsa.org with any questions.
- Saturday, September 12th from 1-3pm at the DSA Headquarters in Brentwood
- Friday, October 9th from 6-8pm at the DDRB Gym in St. Charles
More more information, contact Jordan at: jordan@gatewaydsa.org.
Let's Hang Out - A GDSA Community Group
Meets Monthly at Various Locations
This group is for tweens to young adults with Down syndrome, and their families, to come together and hang out once a month together! The group meets all over the St. Louis region at different locations for different types of activities.
Bodies & Boundaries
Monday, October 26th & Tuesday, October 27th from 6:30 – 7:30pm on Zoom
This is a 2-day workshop for teens and adults with Down syndrome that covers topics related to appropriate touch and body safety, public and private behavior, and other subjects related to puberty and sexuality.
Please note this program is designed to assist caregivers in reinforcing information about personal boundaries and a parent/caregiver is required to be in attendance. Materials for the class will need to be picked up at the GDSA Headquarters, or we will need at least 1 week notice to mail out packets.
Contact Jordan@gatewaydsa.org with any questions!
