DSK Services
- Home
- Projects
Projects
Parents support Groups online activities
- Sharing the Journey of Regression
Zoom session
June 19th. at 8 pm
This support group is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for families who are navigating the challenges of someone they love who has Down syndrome and going through regression. Together, we can share experiences, learn from one another, and find comfort in knowing we are not alone.
- Monthly Connection Group for Branch Admins, Coordinators & Active Committee Members
Zoom session
June 26th. at 10:30 am
Do you have an Admin/Coordinator in your branch? Or someone who’d like to get involved in local initiatives/connecting with other branches?
Join our Monthly Branch Connection Group, held on the last Thursday of every month at 10.30am. This is a relaxed, open space where anyone from your branch can come together to:
- Share ideas for local activities
- Discuss topics common to all branches e.g. funding opportunities, social media use, tools to help branch efficiency etc.
- Run a meeting agenda that’s relevant to your branch
You set the agenda — this group is for you.
Let’s come together to build knowledge, confidence, and stronger communities across the country through open and informed conversations.
The next meeting will be on the 26th of June.
- Dual Diagnosis Support Group: Down Syndrome & Autism
Zoom session
July 2nd. at 11 am and 8 pm
This is a dedicated monthly space for parents and caregivers of individuals with both Down syndrome and autism. This online support group offers a safe, understanding environment where you can connect with others who truly understand the unique experiences, joys, and challenges of a dual diagnosis.
Who is this for? Parents and caregivers of individuals with a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism.
- Parents of Adults with Down Syndrome (21+)
Zoom session
August 5th.
Looking for a supportive community where you can share experiences, celebrate milestones, and navigate challenges together? Join our relaxed and agenda-free monthly Zoom meeting, designed specifically for parents of individuals with Down syndrome aged 21 and older. Whether you’re celebrating a recent achievement, seeking advice, or simply want to connect with others who understand your journey, this is a warm and welcoming space for you.
Sharing the Journey (All Ages)
Zoom session
August 7th.
Join us for our monthly Zoom meeting — a relaxed, agenda-free space where parents of individuals with Down syndrome can come together to chat, share experiences, and support one another. Whether you want to celebrate a recent milestone, talk through a challenge, or simply connect with others who truly understand, this is a welcoming space for all. Let’s share our highs and lows, offer encouragement, and build a stronger community together.
Projects
Parent & Toddler Group
The Parent and Toddler Group meets every second Saturday of the month from 12:00 to 14:00 at the Down Syndrome Kerry Building, Balloonagh Estate, Tralee, V92 YK79.
It’s a warm and welcoming space where parents of young children (from newborns up to age 6) can come together to chat, share experiences, and build lasting friendships. Children also get the chance to play and connect with peers.
The group relaunched in February 2024 and currently welcomes 14 families. It continues to grow and support each other through friendship, shared advice, and community spirit.
New and returning members are always welcome!
For more information, please contact Joanne Cunningham at 0874330090.
How we help
Education: MTU & Tech Amergin Programmes
DSK Programmes based in MTU
DSK offers two courses based in MTU Kerry, North Campus, Tralee. These typically run on Mondays and Fridays 9 am to 3 pm. Tutor is Michelle Burke. The plan is to offer a new course on Personal Development starting in September 2025. This is primarily for new participants aged 18 and over. To find out more and/or book a place, contact Gerard O Carroll, 086 3916600 or gerard.ocarroll@hotmail.com
For students who are on the current Monday or Friday programme, the plan is to continue in September with a one-day per week programme focussing on community involvement and social engagement with a continuing emphasis on functional literacy and independence. To find out more and/or book a place, contact Gerard O Carroll, 086 3916600 or gerard.ocarroll@hotmail.com
Online and in-person information sessions will be offered to people who express an interest and/or register by end of June.
Life Skills Course at Tech Amergin – Autumn Term
This autumn, Tech Amergin, in partnership with Down Syndrome Kerry and Kerry ETB, launched a new Life Skills course for young adults in the local area. The course offered two engaging classes: Craft and Wellbeing, giving learners a taste of the wider educational opportunities available at “The Tech.”
In the Craft class, learners explored creative techniques like Gelli printing and designed Christmas cards, raising €250 for Down Syndrome Kerry. After Christmas, they took on a hands-on garden project—creating and laying concrete tiles in Tech Amergin’s community garden.
The Wellbeing class focused on culinary skills, healthy eating, and personal development. Learners also developed interpersonal and relaxation techniques to support emotional wellbeing and reduce stress.
How we help:
Deenagh Lodge
DSK operate tearooms from Deenagh Lodge in the National Park in Killarney from early April to September. The aim and focus of this project is to train our young adults in the hospitality sector with a view to gaining employment within this area.
How we help:
321 Charity Shop
