Programs and Services

The Up Side of Downs of Northeast Ohio provides programs and services to improve the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The USOD serves over 800 families caring for a loved one with Down syndrome in the Northeast Region of Ohio.

The following is a comprehensive list of USOD services:

Parent to Parent Network: As soon as the USOD is informed of a new baby with Down syndrome, our New Parent Outreach Coordinator contacts the new parents to offer support, friendship, books and information on how to receive support from the USOD and other local resources.

Buddy Walk - The NEO Buddy Walk is a wheel-friendly 1-mile pledge walk to increase public awareness and acceptance, and raise funds to support programs and services for people in our community with Down syndrome. http://www.buddywalk.org/

On-line Yahoo Support Group: Families are encouraged to join DownsyndromeNEOhio · Down Syndrome-Northeast Ohio at www.yahoo.com.

Family Grant Program –Twice a year the USOD awards medical or educational financial support through family grants.  Approximately $60,000 each year is distributed to over 100 families.

Undergraduate Scholarship Program for General Education (K-12) - A non-renewable academic scholarship for students enrolled in a 4 year college in the state of Ohio,  intending to become educators in the general education classroom . The goal of the scholarship to to broaden the experiences of pre-service teachers in order to help them develop understanding and clarity regarding the educational needs of individuals with disabilities and their families.

Directory of Local, National & International Resources: Lists of available services for families of individuals with Down syndrome. The USOD staff maintains an accurate and up-to-date listing of convenient and necessary resources. See our comprehensive local/regional resource directory .

Parent Support Groups:  Monthly informational meetings for parents of individuals with Down syndrome. The meetings feature guest speakers and panels of peer families to lead discussions on topics such as health care, education, wills and trusts, behavior management, legal rights, transitions and potty training.

Disability Awareness Program:  It is a one-time educational talk designed to give students an awareness of Down syndrome through a classroom speaker and activities.  Additional materials are given to teachers to expand on the on-time program so they can discuss and develop the theme in more detail.

Education Conferences:  The USOD is proud to host educational conferences which bring together experts in the field to discuss best practices in working with individuals with Down syndrome.

Social Events:  The USOD hosts several events each year for all members to come together and share common interests and values. Among these are: Pumpkin Fest,, Annual Holiday Party, Karaoke Nights for Young Adults, Bowling, Swim Parties & Baby & Toddler Playgroups.  Families look forward to these events as an opportunity to network and share information and resources with one another. Suggestions for additional events or different locations are always welcome. Check our community calendar and register for the latest events to ensure your spot!

If you have questions about USOD programs and services, or would like to make a suggestion for a new program, please contact us.