• DSAGC
• Self Advocates
• Families
• Community
• Calendar
• Give

• About Us
• Programs
• Services
• Resources
• Events
• Email Networks
• What is Down syndrome?

about us

• Board
• Brand
• Committees / Task Forces
• Contact
• History
• Mission
• Staff
•  

Our History

The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati (DSAGC) proudly celebrates serving the families and community members of Greater Cincinnati since 1981.The DSAGC was created by a small group of parents who envisioned better opportunities for their children with Down syndrome. Today that vision has expanded and we are pleased to provide over 15 programs and services to area families.

Many milestones have been reached during our founding. In 1982, the Infant Action Program was initiated. Meetings were held at Children’s Hospital. Today this program is known as the Early Matters Program and now includes parent mentoring, therapy programs and support groups. In 1983 a parent information booklet titled “Getting a Good Start” was created and the Hospital Program was born. In 2008 we are pleased to have created a new and updated version of this publication which is now entitled, “Expecting an Extraordinary Life.”

Benefiting all area families, the Down Syndrome Clinic was established in 1985 at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, and in 1986 the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati with one part time staff person was opened. As the DSAGC became more visible in the community, it hosted the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention in 1988. As the staff began to increase and the number of people served began to grow, the DSAGC was recognized as the Best Local Chapter in 1994. In November of 1999, the DSAGC hosted the first regional conference on Down syndrome. Currently the DSAGC staff is comprised of 9 part time employees and one full time employee and is supported by a 18 member Board of Trustees. A growing volunteer pool helps to support the continuing growth of the DSAGC. The DSAGC newsletter, DS Press currently reaches over 3,500 households and professionals. The DSAGC currently has three major fundraisers each year.

Over the years, the DSAGC staff has strived to support, inform and educate parents, family members and community members by offering a wide variety of programs and services to meet each group’s distinct needs. Tremendous strides have been made in education, social acceptance and healthcare for people with Down syndrome. These successes invigorate the DSAGC as we look toward a bright future. Families and volunteers continue to provide the energy, enthusiasm and commitment which are key to the ongoing success and growth of the DSAGC.