About DSACO

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio is pleased to host the 10th Annual Columbus Buddy Walk®!

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio (DSACO) is a network of individuals with Down syndrome, parents, families, health care providers, educators and friends. We care deeply for those diagnosed and their families. With early intervention, quality medical care, education programs and social acceptance, people with Down syndrome can live full, productive lives.

We provide information, education, support and referral assistance to families throughout 15 Central Ohio counties. There is no cost to be a member of DSACO and most programs are available to families and self-advocates at no charge or for a nominal fee.

DSACO Support & Services

New Parent Support

  • Visit families of newborns in the hospital or at home through Changing Lives program
  • Provide new parent packets
  • Host parent support groups
  • Offer one-to-one parent mentoring
  • Provide referral assistance to families through country DD Boards, Help Me Grow and other agencies

Awareness

  • Host DSACO website
  • Distribute bi-monthly newsletter, Keeping Up
  • Send eblasts on DSACO activities and other community happenings
  • Engage in dialogue through Facebook & Twitter
  • Host World Down Syndrome Day activities on March 21
  • Promote awareness during Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October

Education

  • Provide seminars to health care professional on diagnosis delivery and latest research
  • Host workshops for parents on topics such as behavior, education, health, trusts & guardianship
  • Organize conferences for educators, health care professionals and case managers on topics such as behavior, therapies and other issues facing our community
  • Host Adult Mini-Conference, safety workshops and other educational programs for people with Down syndrome
  • Maintain Resource Center in DSACO offices with books, brochures and other materials for review by parents

Legislative Advocacy

  • Provide expertise on disability legislation
  • Disseminate pertinent information to DSACO membership
  • Organize and encourage advocacy through petitions, letter writing and testifying

Scholarships

  • Offer up to $200 annually for people living with Down syndrome to participate in recreational activities that promote health and wellness
  • Offer discounts or fee waivers for families who are unable to afford registration fees for DSACO conferences

Fitness Programs

  • Walking Club
  • Lose the Training Wheels
  • Down Syndrome Golf Academy
  • Soccer and Cheer Clinics

Social Events

  • Summer Picnic & Dance
  • Holiday Party
  • Clippers Outing

Collaborations

  • National Down Syndrome Society
  • National Down Syndrome Congress
  • Ohio Down Syndrome Advocacy Network
  • Nationwide Children's Hospital Down Syndrome Clinic
  • Nisonger Center at The Ohio State University
  • The Ohio State University Adult Clinic
  • DownSyndrome Achieves
  • Next Chapter Book Club, Miracle League, Easter Seals and other organizations that serve our community

Fundraisers

  • Buddy Walk®
  • DSACO Golf Classic
  • Gala
  • Tribute/Memorial Gifts
  • Investment Donations
  • Kroger Community Rewards