What Does Columbus Buddy Walk Fund?

Who is DSACO? 

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio (DSACO) was incorporated in 1984 with one purpose in mind: to support families, promote community involvement, and encourage a lifetime of opportunities for people with Down syndrome. We believe this can be achieved by providing families and individuals living with Down syndrome with meaningful, convenient, and unique opportunities to discover independence and to celebrate their achievements. 

What does DSACO do?

Over the arc of a lifetime, starting from diagnosis and along every step of the way, DSACO is there to help. Our robust services provide a broad spectrum of opportunities for those in the Down syndrome community, no matter who you are.

What counties do we serve?

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio provides a variety of information, education, support and assistance to individuals with Down syndrome and their families in 23 Ohio counties, including Athens, Coshocton, Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Gallia, Hocking, Jackson, Knox, Lawrence, Licking, Madison, Marion, Meigs, Morgan, Morrow, Muskingum, Perry, Pickaway, Ross, Union, and Vinton. Please note that the services, programming, and supports are not exclusive to the 23 counties highlighted. If you have an interest in a particular program or event that we offer, please do not hesitate to join us! 

How are you making a difference?

At the heart of our mission is a commitment to support the Down syndrome community, which we consider our diverse and dynamic family. Our goal is to empower individuals with Down syndrome by offering a comprehensive range of programs and resources tailored to meet their unique and evolving needs. By working together, we can create a brighter future for everyone in the community.

DSACO has experienced substantial growth thanks to the increase in funds raised through our fundraising initiatives, including the highly successful Columbus Buddy Walk®. As a result of these efforts, DSACO is now able to:

Serve more families than ever before

Through our Diversity Outreach program, DSACO is working to ensure that individuals with Down syndrome from diverse backgrounds have access to the support and resources they need. With funding from the Columbus Buddy Walk & other initiatives, DSACO can help individuals from all backgrounds feel included and valued.

Expand our programs

By incorporating programming specifically designed to improve mental wellness of individuals, couples, and whole families, we worked to put people in a better position to provide for their families, including their loved one with Down syndrome. 

Increase investments in adult literacy

DSACO has launched various programs to address systemic gaps and meet the evolving needs of its families. Funds raised through the Columbus Buddy Walk have allowed these programs to support more families, including Learning Aid Ohio, Adult Literacy, Community Access Funds, and Family Outreach Events.

Increase awareness 

DSACO is committed to increasing awareness in the community. By doing so, we can better serve families that may not be aware of our offerings and help families overcome barriers they may face. The dollars raised through the Columbus Buddy Walk enable DSACO to achieve these goals and better serve families throughout our 23-county service area.. 

To learn more about the impact you're making, please visit www.dsaco.net.