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Down Syndrome

Ability Matters

Serves: Students ages 3-21 and adults with autism or other neurological disabilities.
Supports individuals with autism and other neurological disabilities. Services include community-based crisis intervention, adult day services, and independent supportive living. Educational services are available through the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program to support student ages 3-21 at partner school districts. The Beyond Ability Matters program provides housing, educational experiences like preparing for a job interview, and community outings. Contact the organization or complete the online Inquiry Form for program details.
425 Metro Place North, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 956-1229
abilitymattersohio.com

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Healthy Children

This website is a great source of verified health information for parents on a wide range of health topics, such as healthy living, family life, immunizations, child development, and medical conditions. They offer articles with topics including safety, disaster preparedness, fitness, school issues, dating, substance abuse, emotional wellness, psychiatric medications, grief and more. You can also use the website to find a pediatrician in your zip code. The website is produced by the American Academy of Pediatrics and all articles are written by pediatricians.
HealthyChildren.org

Boundless

Serves: Children, teens, individuals, and families with ID/DD and/or behavioral health challenges.
Provides person-centered care to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges. They offer center and community-based behavioral health services, case management, long-term and temporary residential support, in-home and out-of-home respite services, and day programs. With Out Walls (WOW) is an adult day program that includes group activities and outings for individuals to explore interests and their community while making new friends. Healthcare services are available at Boundless Health in Worthington, Ohio. Boundless Health provides inclusive care for every age and family member, all in the same carefully designed facility to support the unique needs of the I/DD community. Health services include behavioral health, primary care, and dentistry.

Boundless Health Worthington:
445 East Dublin-Granville Road, Worthington, Ohio 43085
(614) 844-3800
Newark:
22 North First Street, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 334-4056
West Carrollton:
700 Liberty Lane, West Carrollton, Ohio 45449
(937) 247-2400
Center-Based ABA: (937) 672-1587
Medina:
1065 Medina Road, Medina, Ohio 44256
(330) 596-1042
Perrysburg:
28555 Starbright Boulevard, Perrysburg, Ohio 43551
(567) 312-4722
Independence:
6100 West Creek Road, Independence, Ohio 44131
(216) 978-8115

(800) 409-2729
iamboundless.org

Buddy Up For Life for Youth with Down Syndrome

Serves individuals with Down Syndrome by providing engaging activities that help athletic, social, and emotional development. Athletes are partnered with volunteer Buddies to provide support, develop friendships, and reinforce the coaches’ instructions. Coaches are trained to implement the curriculum specifically created for athletes with Down Syndrome. Programs include tennis, pickleball, fitness, Zumba, and summer camp. The Columbus location offers a Life Skills program for students ages 14+ to learn skills like cooking, finance, and professional communication.
8000 Walton Parkway, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 579-8808
buddyupforlife.org

Childhood League Center

Serves: Families with children under the age of 6, children with autism or developmental delays
Early childhood educational services for children including toddler classes, preschool, and home visits. Their preschool program serves a 50:50 ratio of children both with and without developmental delays, a research-based approach aimed at creating inclusive communities. The PLAY Project is an evidence-based, parent-implemented autism intervention for young children. They offer home-based early intervention for children with delays from birth to age 3. The center also has educational resources for families, training opportunities for professionals, and community events. The school year program runs from September to May, but they accept referrals throughout the calendar year.
674 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 253-6933
childhoodleague.org

Do It For the Love – Music Wish Grants

Supports music therapy, research, and provides live music experiences. They provide Wish Grants for people with life-threatening illnesses or children with severe challenges (such as disabilities or trauma). Family members, close friends/colleagues, or medical professionals can nominate someone for a Wish Grant. Nominations must include diagnosis confirmation. Visit the website to apply for a Wish Grant or contact the organization.
DoItForTheLove.org

Down Syndrome Achieves (DSA)

Advocates for research to help people with Down syndrome live with less health complications. Their website has information on how to become a research participant.
PO Box 1596, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 362-3441
dsachieves.org

Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio (DSACO)

Provides resources, information, and services for families with Down Syndrome in Central Ohio. They offer support groups for parents, parent mentor programs, and couples counseling services. Financial assistance programs include reimbursement for recreational activities, Post-Secondary scholarships for relatives entering a field that benefits people with Down syndrome, Adopt-A-Family holiday assistance, and hospital care packages. They host events for all ages, such as play groups, arts and recreation, and virtual cooking classes.
510 East North Broadway Suite 401, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 263-6020
dsaco.net

Easterseals Central & Southeast Ohio

Serves: Children and adults with developmental disabilities.
Provides comprehensive health services for children and adults living with disabilities. Services in Franklin County include early childhood intervention for ages 12-36 months, Chance to Dance free dance classes for families, Long-Term Care Ombudsman for long-term care support, and summer day camps for children. Adult day services are available in Lawrence, Medina, Ross, Scioto, and Summit counties.
3830 Trueman Court, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Long-term Care Ombudsman: (614) 345-9198
All other services: (614) 228-5523
Easterseals.com/CentralOhio

Growing Harmonies Music Therapy Services

Program: Provides client-centered music therapy to address cognitive, emotional, communication, and social skills. Offers individual music therapy, school-based services, and child/caregiver social groups.
Eligibility: Ages 3-25 with neurodevelopmental diagnoses including autism, developmental delays, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, speech and language delays, ADHD, and behavioral disorders.
Cost: Fee-for-service. Accepts self/private pay, Medicaid Waiver, private insurance, and HSA may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
Referral: Contact to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.
123 West Longview Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43202
growingharmoniesmusictherapyservices.com

Health Information Websites

The websites below offer helpful health information from reputable sources on topics such as healthy lifestyle, diseases, prevention, and treatment.

CDC: Find an A-Z library on health conditions, vaccines, current disease outbreaks, and prevention.
Healthy Children: Information on kids health and development, parenting, and more from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
KidsHealth and TeensHealth: Tons of important health information throughout the lifespan from Nemours.
Mayo Clinic: Find symptoms, treatments, and when to see a doctor for various health conditions. They also have information on clinical trials and resources for professionals.
MedlinePlus: Look up drugs, supplements, medical tests, and health conditions from the National Library of Medicine.
Nemours: Offers information on a wide range of topics from health experts for kids, teens, and parents.
Oncolink: Information about various types of cancer, treatments, and support from cancer experts.
Safe Kids Worldwide: Find safety information and toolkits on a wide range of topics including water safety, car seats, safe infant sleep, medication safety, and more. They also publish a list of recent product recalls, parent guides to safety, and safety laws for professionals.

McLindon Family Foundation (MFF)

Provides free adaptive bikes to children and young adults with conditions like Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Hydrocephalus, Autism, and more. Families may contact the organization directly to start the application process, which includes an application, interview, and letter from the family’s therapist. Wait times vary by state.
8305 Tom Drive, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70815
(225) 456-3505
mclindonfamilyfoundation.org

Midwest Genetics Network (MGN)

Works with patients and healthcare providers to help improve access to genetic services for medically underserved populations and those with genetic conditions. Use the Find a Genetic Service page on their website to search for care providers by zip code. The Journey Through Diagnosis website and app provides a detailed guide for families on coping with emotions related to a genetic diagnosis, accessing medical care and support services, navigating insurance, and more.
Journey.MidwestGenetics.org

National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC)

Offers information and advocacy for individuals, families, and professionals impacted by Down Syndrome. The website includes resources on speech and language services, health care, education, behavior tips and more.
3825 Edwards Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45209
(800) 232-6372
ndsccenter.org

National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)

Their website provides lots of great resources and information about Down Syndrome throughout the lifespan. They offer regular webinars and family programs, scholarships, and more.
1155 Fifteenth Street Northwest, Washington D.C. 20005
(800) 221-4602
ndss.org

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Adaptive Sports Medicine Program

Provides individualized treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults with physical disabilities. Services include injury evaluation, rehabilitation, and adaptive athletic training.
Livingston Orthopedic & Surgery Center: 405 Butterfly Gardens Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 355-6000
nationwidechildrens.org/adaptive-sports-medicine-program

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Developmental Pediatrics

Provides developmental assessment and treatment services for children under the age of 21 with developmental, emotional, or behavioral concerns. Their team of certified Developmental Behavioral Pediatricians, Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologists can help coordinate services with families, schools, community organizations, and other healthcare providers to meet the individual needs of your child. Developmental evaluations are offered at the Livingston Ambulatory Clinic in downtown Columbus. Additional specialty services such as the Down Syndrome, Williams Syndrome, Spina Bifida, Autism, and Behavioral Health clinics may be offered at their locations downtown or at the Child Development Center in Westerville, Ohio.
Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic: 380 Butterfly Gardens Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 722-4050
Child Development Center: 187 West Schrock Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081
nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/developmental-and-behavioral-pediatrics/our-clinics

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Down Syndrome Clinic

Provides diagnostic and treatment services to children and adolescents with Down syndrome and their families. Families are linked with medical, educational, social and financial supports in their communities to help meet the unique needs of their child.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-4050
nationwidechildrens.org/down-syndrome

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Health Information & Helping Hands

Offers educational materials for parents and caregivers from pediatric experts. Helping Hands are easy-to-read articles on topics including health conditions, caring for medical equipment at home, behavior support, medical tests, and caring for newborns. Visit the Conditions We Treat page for even more information on health conditions A-Z and how to get treatment.
Helping Hands: NationwideChildrens.org/Helping-Hands
Conditions We Treat: NationwideChildrens.org/Conditions

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Homecare

Provides a full range of homecare services to Central Ohio children of all ages, from newborns through young adults. Homecare offers the following areas of service:

Infusion Pharmacy
Pediatric Home Medical Equipment (includes aerosol equipment, wheelchairs and ambulatory supplies, blood pressure kits, apnea monitors, breast pumps, wound care, and more.)
Intermittent (Short-Term) Nursing and Private Duty (Long-Term) Nursing
Skilled Therapy Services (occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language therapy)
Hospice and Home-Based Palliative Care services for children with life-limiting illnesses

255 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 355-1100
NationwideChildrens.org/Homecare

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Occupational, Speech & Physical Therapy Programs

Provides developmental occupational therapy (OT), speech and language therapy, and physical therapy (PT) services. Services are provided at the main hospital and at many clinic locations throughout the community, for children from birth to age 21.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-2200
Occupational Therapy: nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/occupational-therapy
Speech Pathology: nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/speech-pathology
Physical Therapy: nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/physical-therapy

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R)

Specializes in the diagnosis and management of children with physically disabling conditions. Services include wheelchair and seating evaluations, prosthetic evaluations, spasticity management, electrodiagnosis, concussion clinic, and more.
(614) 722-6200
nationwidechildrens.org/physical-medicine-rehabilitation

Next Chapter Book Club (NCBC)

Community-based book club program for adolescents and adults with Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. A small group meets with trained facilitators at bookstores, cafés, and public libraries throughout Franklin County. Anyone can participate, whatever their reading or ability level. Members experience an inclusive community focused on reading to learn together and build friendships, rather than learning to read. The Franklin County chapter is hosted by The Ohio State University Nisonger Center.
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 685-6718
Franklin County: nisonger.osu.edu/adolescent/adolescent-clinics-services/next-chapter-book-club-2
National Website: nextchapterbookclub.org

Nisonger Center at The Ohio State University (OSU)

Serves: Infants, school-aged children, teens, and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
The Nisonger Center has a variety of programs for individuals with developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorders. Services include developmental/diagnostic evaluations, clinical support services, specialized dental programs, inclusive childcare and early childhood education, social programs for teens, TOPS post-secondary education and transitional skills program for adult students at OSU, psychiatric services, and more. They also host Next Chapter Book Club. They accept all major insurances, Medicaid, Board of DD Waivers, and offer a sliding scale for payment. Scholarships and fee arrangements are available for some programs. Contact the center for program details and eligibility.
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
Administration: (614) 685-3192
nisonger.osu.edu

Onward Pediatric Therapies

Program: Outpatient, intensive, and group physical and occupational therapy. Services include traditional occupational and physical therapy (PT and OT), intensive PT and OT, PT and OT evaluations, Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI), spinal stimulation, feeding therapy, sensory & emotional regulation, and social groups. They also offer summer camp with outdoor activities, social groups, sensory play, and more.
Eligibility: Ages 0-18 with neurodevelopmental diagnoses (including cerebral palsy, autism, down syndrome, spina bifida, genetic disorders, sensory processing delay, or feeding disorders).
Cost: Fee-for-service only. They do not accept insurance, Medicaid, or waivers.
Referral: Families may refer themselves and schedule appointments online.
3246 West Henderson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
onwardpediatrictherapies.com

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) Works

Provides a range of supports for people with disabilities in Ohio to gain employment and maintain independence. Call an office near you or create an account on the website to start the application process. Services are available for people with a variety of physical and intellectual disabilities, including Blind/Low-Vision, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, mental health conditions, Substance Use Disorders, Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, and more. OOD Works programs include:

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR): Helps people with disabilities find or keep jobs. Individuals must apply for services and select a vocational rehabilitation provider to work with. Service providers can help with career counseling, skill training, job placement, and more.
OOD.Ohio.gov/Information-for-Individuals/OODWorks/01-Learn-About-Vocational-Rehabilitation
Independent Living Services: Partners with community organizations and agencies to provide personalized independent living services. The Personal Care Assistance Program provides partial reimbursement for the cost of a personal care assistant/aide. The Independent Living Older Blind (ILOB) program helps individuals at least 55years old learn new skills and use adaptive aids to remain at home in the community.
OOD.Ohio.gov/Information-for-Individuals/Services/Independent-Living-Services/Independent-Living-Services
Ohio Vocational Apprentice Program: Provides paid apprenticeships for individuals with disabilities ages 18 and older. The goal of the program is for apprentices to secure permanent employment in state government after the completion of the program. Visit the website to apply.
150 East Campus View Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 306-1744
OOD.Ohio.gov/Information-for-Individuals/Services/Student-Services/Postsecondary/Ohio-Vocational-Apprentice-Program
College2Careers (C2C): Partners with Ohio colleges and universities to ensure students with disabilities have the support they need to complete degrees, attain credentials and earn higher wages. C2C counselors are located in the disability services or career services office at each partnership school to help students with exploring careers, writing a resume, finding employment and prepping for interviews. This program is specifically for individuals with physical, intellectual, sensory, and mental health disabilities. Financial support for tuition or educational expenses is available for those who qualify. Go online for a list of participating schools and contact information. Visit the website for detailed contact information and to apply.
OOD.Ohio.gov/Information-for-Individuals/Services/Student-Services/Postsecondary/Ohio-College-2-Careers

Find an OOD Office Near Your: OOD.Ohio.gov/About-Us/Find+Us/Find-Us
OODWorks.com

Oracle Health Foundation Pediatric Grants

Provides financial grants to help cover costs related to children’s healthcare needs. Grants are provided for clinical costs, equipment costs, displacement, or vehicle modification. Examples of expenses covered include lodging and transportation related to a child’s care, clinical procedures, medicine, care devices/medical equipment, and assistive equipment. The grant recipient must be 21 years of age or younger, be under the care of a physician, and have no existing insurance coverage for the requested expenses. Families may request funds once per 12 months, with a maximum of three times in a child’s lifetime. Visit the website to complete an application.
OracleHealthFoundation.org/Pediatric-Grants

Prenatal & Postnatal Down Syndrome Resources

Find information about Down Syndrome and other prenatally-diagnosed conditions for expectant parents and new parents:

Down Syndrome Pregnancy: Access free, downloadable books from the National Center for Prenatal and Postnatal Resources at the University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute with compassionate, practical, medically-reviewed information.
downsyndromepregnancy.org/books
Lettercase.org: National clearinghouse and comprehensive training center for accurate, balanced, and up-to-date information about genetic conditions. Find helpful information, resources, and professional trainings.
(770) 310-3885
lettercase.org

Ronald McDonald House Resource Link (Formerly Red Treehouse)

Online resource directory supporting families and children with life challenges, disabilities, and healthcare needs from prenatal to age 25. The website helps families find resources such as special education, legal support, financial support for rare diseases, and more. Users can search for resources by need or medical condition.
RonaldMcDonaldHouseResourceLink.org

Safe Place Bedding

Provides safety beds and solutions to improve quality of life for children and adults with disabilities, whether at home or traveling. Families can go online to order a permanent bed, travel bed, and other safety items. The beds are Medicaid-approved in Ohio. The company accepts insurance and provides liaison services to coordinate care between your physician and insurance. Their in-house physical therapist can assist with Letter of Medical Necessity if needed.
Call or Text: (614) 602-5196
Click Here for Program Brochure
Website: safeplacebedding.com

Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)

Assists people of all ages with disabilities to live more independently. The majority of their board and staff are people with disabilities assisting others. Services include peer support, independent living skills training, adaptive sports and wellness, help with youth school transitions, and referrals to community resources. The Assistive Technology program loans eating utensils, screen readers, magnifiers, autism sensory items, and more. They also offer free group living skills classes and support for youth with IEPs. Services are free to anyone with a disability in the Southeast Ohio region. They serve Athens, Fairfield, Hocking, Jackson, Meigs, Morgan, Perry, Vinton, and Washington counties.
418 South Broad Street, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 689-1494
SOCIL.org

United Cerebral Palsy (USP)

Serves children and adults with disabilities in the greater Cleveland area. Services include occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), speech-language therapy, educational day programs, summer camps, adult day services, and assistive technology assessments.
10011 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106
(216) 791-8363
ucpcleveland.org

UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation (UHCCF)

Provides medical grants for families to pay for healthcare services related to a major medical condition that are not covered by their family’s insurance plan. Children must be 16 years old or younger, be a U.S. citizen, and have coverage through a commercial health plan to qualify for a grant. Families must meet income eligibility requirements. Applications must be submitted on a computer, not phone or tablet. Visit the website for a full list of requirements and for application instructions.
(855) 698-4223
UHCCF.org

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Down Syndrome