Having Too Much Fun!
The Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio is hard at work in the community providing education about Down syndrome and providing services to those who face daily challenges. That means providing programs and events that not only provide education to our members but also allow them to come together with those facing similar issues to give and receive input and provide support. We host a number of events and activities that allow for this at a number of levels, including:
Columbus Clippers Outings
Each summer, our members are invited to root for our hometown baseball team, the Columbus Clippers. This day of fun is a great time to relax and visit with other families while the kids put on their mitts in hopes of catching that treasured foul ball. Food is provided in a private area of the new Huntington Ball Park prior to the game.
Annual DSACO Family Picnic/Dance
Spring is the perfect time for our Annual Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio family picnic. This year we combined two fun events into one great event for everyone and held it at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium—recently named the #1 Zoo in America! Those who attend not only enjoy all the Zoo has to offer, but great food, magic acts, caricature artists, and music, too—all at no cost. There are door prizes for those age 16+ at the dance. Even those who aren’t necessarily dancers come to mingle with old friends and make new ones.
Holiday Party
It’s the social event of the season—the DSACO Holiday Party! This event has grown to be one of our most popular as it has something for everyone, including clowns, crafts and letters to Santa. Our Teen Group known for their musical abilities routinely performs to the cheers of those in attendance. Of course, the main attraction is St. Nick himself. This not-to-be-missed family event is free and includes food, fun and a special holiday gift.
Buddy Up Tennis, Fitness & Fun!
This 90-minute, high-energy fitness program focuses on adaptive tennis fitness and is geared to provide fun and fitness for children and adults with Down syndrome. Each class consists of basic tennis drills, balance and coordination exercises, and a whole lot of fun! Sessions are held at Wickertree Tennis & Fitness. To learn more, go to www.buddyuptennis.com.
Golf For Life Ohio
Having a passion for those living with Down syndrome, Cindy and Michael Neighbor are long-time supporters of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio. They started the Golf for Life Ohio Golf Classic which has now been rolled into the Dr. Kvitko Golf Classic. Even though the event has changed, the Neighbors continue to work and offer their support to DSACO golf outings that today support Golf for Life Ohio.
Golf for Life Ohio is a program established to introduce the game of golf to children and adults with Down syndrome. Through the program, participants are introduced to the fundamentals of the game and receive one-on-one instruction from PGA professionals.
The Neighbors launched the program in 2009 to honor Michael’s aunt. Today, the program continues, bringing the exciting game of golf to those with disabilities. We are grateful to Cindy and Michael and thank them for their support of the Association and those we serve.
Soccer Clinic with the Columbus Crew
Columbus Crew players and Special Olympic soccer coaches team up to teach soccer moves to children and adults with Down syndrome. Those taking part in the clinic learn the basics of the game with their peers and actually play on the Crew field. There is no age limit for participants.
Adult Fitness Program
The Adult Fitness Program was started in 2009 to help address health and fitness needs of adults with Down syndrome. Activities are designed to be fun and non-competitive. In addition to exercise, participants learn how to make healthly eating choices at mealtime and how to make healthy snacks. Activities include corn hole, yard games, yoga, a swim party, Zumba and more.
Walking Club
In conjunction with the Adult Fitness Program, the Association has started the Walking Club. Beginning in the Spring and going through Fall, the group meets twice a week at a Central Ohio metro park. Walkers are given their own pedometer to track their miles and times and are encouraged to go at their own pace. Parents and others are encouraged to join in. Trails are usually “easy” and relatively short. As the program continues, many of the regular walkers pick up their pace and increase their distance. All walkers are invited to participate in a number of local 5K walks and runs including our own Buddy Up 5K Run/Walk.