The Down Syndrome Resource Foundation (Let’s InterACT: A Theatre and Improv Program)

• Background/police check requiredAppropriate for youth (i.e., less than 18)Appropriate for volunteers aged between 18 and 55Training or orientation required

The Down Syndrome Resource Foundation is seeking volunteers to participate as part of an improv ensemble, supporting fellow improvisers with developmental disabilities.

Improvisation (improv) is acting without a script. Everything you see on stage is
completely spontaneous and made up on the spot. Improv, like social interaction, is
unscripted and depends on one’s ability to assess the situation, perceive the behavior and
social cues of others and then externally adapt, initiate, or respond appropriately.
Many of the skills improv works on are similar for what is needed for successful
communication: social and executive-functioning skills like perspective taking, predicting,
inferencing, listening and interpreting social cues, making eye contact, turn taking
and storytelling abilities. Through team building activities, theatre and improv games,
participants will develop many of these social-communication skills in a safe, supportive,
and encouraging environment. Participants will learn to work collaboratively with others,
develop their independent thinking and creatively, all while gaining confidence and
trusting relationships in the process.

This position requires individuals who:

Enjoy working with students with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities.
Are dependable and there when needed.
Can provide a criminal record check for vulnerable populations.
Can assist with the set up and take down of the theatre space.
Have a positive attitude, high energy and kind demeanor.
An appreciation for theatre and acting. No previous improv or acting experience required, just a willingness to learn along with your fellow improvisers and a “YES AND” attitude!
Can attend a 30-minute orientation.

Interested volunteers can contact liv@dsrf.org for more information.