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Join us for the world's largest mosaic Down syndrome meet up!
One long weekend, lots of families, lots of learning, lots of fun and connecting, all weekend long!
2026 Research & Retreat in Denver, CO - June 19th - 21st
Registration Fees
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Individual Registration: $125
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Family Registration: $300
Family registration is intended for one household, typically including up to two parents or guardians and their dependent children living in the same home.
Extended family members such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or additional adult relatives are welcome to attend and should register separately so we can plan appropriately for space, materials, and programming.
Your Registration Includes:
- Entry into all IMDSA conference workshops, research presentations, and roundtable discussions held Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday
- Access to the Science & Society sessions on Saturday with the international RT21 Collaborative conference(located a short 3-minute walk from the host hotel and included at no additional cost)
- Opportunities to participate in mosaic Down syndrome research studies throughout the weekend
- Community networking opportunities with families, researchers, exhibitors, and partners
Friday will be filled with so much fun!
It's a day to connect with other families that are on the same journey as you!
Fun filled day out at the Zoo!
When: Friday, June 19th
Where: Denver Zoo
Time: Admission to the Zoo available all day.
meet and greet with meal from 1-4pm
Cost: $60 - Adult
$50- Child
Friday evening will be a time for parents and caregivers to connect with and learn from one another. Roundtable discussions will focus on those questions participants really want answers to.
The 2026 IMDSA Research and Retreat Conference includes educational sessions, support sessions, research participation sessions, and plenty of fun activities for community relationship building.
Researchers will be available to meet with self-advocates and parents throughout the conference, with an option to schedule personalized appointments to answer your specific questions, listen to your suggestions and experiences related to mosaic or non-mosaic Down syndrome.
To get more information about the researchers that will be attending the Research and Retreat weekend, visit here. If you are interested in participating in research during the conference, you can indicate your interest by checking the box on the registration form indicating your interest in research participation.
Approximately two weeks prior to our Research and Retreat Weekend, you will receive an email from IMDSA with details. This email is used to determine when your family will arrive at the conference, which research in which you want to participate, the form of Down syndrome your child has, as well as their age and gender. Once that information is received, another email will be sent to you by the Wednesday evening prior to the event with your research schedule for Saturday and any necessary documents or information needed for the research.
*Please note participation in research is optional and free of charge. *
Hilton Denver City Center
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Denver International Airport is the most recommend airport to get to this year's R&R.
Airport Distance to hotel:
Denver International Airport (DEN), 35 minutes
Guy's Night out: Friday, onsite hotel bar 7-9pm
Ladies Night out: Saturday, onsite hotel bar 7-9pm
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S.A.L.T. Group Workshops & Team Building
At this year’s Research & Retreat Weekend, we are excited to offer S.A.L.T. Group Workshops and Team Building opportunities designed specifically for individuals living with mosaic Down syndrome.
This unique experience provides a welcoming and supportive environment for self-advocates to connect with peers, build friendships, strengthen leadership skills, and engage in meaningful conversations with others who share similar life experiences.
Participants will also enjoy a fun social outing that includes lunch and bowling at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley, located just one block from the hotel (approximately a 6-minute walk).
These workshops and activities will be facilitated by our experienced S.A.L.T. Group Leaders, Roxanne Batzel and Sonya Carbal, who are passionate about empowering individuals with mosaic Down syndrome through connection, advocacy, and personal growth.
Workshop Topics
S.A.L.T. workshops are designed to support confidence, independence, and emotional well-being. Through engaging discussions, team-building activities, and real-life skill development, participants will explore topics such as:
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Understanding feelings and emotions
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Maintaining healthy boundaries and emotional regulation
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Strengthening communication skills
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Building self-awareness
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Developing positive interpersonal relationships
These sessions are interactive and supportive, helping self-advocates grow socially, emotionally, and as leaders within the mosaic Down syndrome community.
Important Details
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Registration is required
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Available only for individuals with mosaic Down syndrome
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Ages 15 and up
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Cost: $20 per person
Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged to ensure participation in this meaningful and fun experience.
