Columbus Area Down Syndrome Support Group
The Columbus Area Down Syndrome Support Group (CADSSG) is a support network that informs and educates parents, self-advocates, family members, professionals, and friends of individuals with Down Syndrome. We are committed to raising awareness of Down Syndrome and promoting an inclusive culture where all people with Down syndrome are valued participants in the social, recreational, educational and economic opportunities in the communities we serve.
The Columbus Area Down Syndrome Support Group operates under the fiduciary of The Arc of Bartholomew County.
Our organization is 100% volunteer based, but we strive to provide a continuum of quality supports:
Monthly support group meetings.
New family information packets to help parents and siblings learn about Down syndrome.
Resource library with up-to-date information & reference materials on Down syndrome.
Access to assistive and adaptive development toys, DVDs & etc.
Education workshop and speakers
Picnics, social and family events.
Funding and promotion of teen and young adult programs in our communities.
Public awareness and educational events.
Educational scholarships for conferences and workshops.
Annual Buddy Walk
Buddy Walk
Our next Buddy Walk will take place on October 12, 2024!
Stay tuned for more information!
Each year in celebration in celebration of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, communities all across the country participate in Buddy Walks to raise awareness of this common genetic condition.
The Buddy Walk was established by the National Down Syndrome Society in 1995 to raised awareness of Down syndrome. The Buddy Walk has grown from 17 walks in 1995 to over 350 in 2015. Friends and family have grown to love the Buddy Walk and even a few donkeys have joined in the fun.
The proceeds from the Buddy Walk are used to provide services and supports to families in South Central Indiana. A portion of the proceeds are used to fund programming at The Arc Center for Excellence in Columbus, Indiana.
New Family Resources
As a new or expectant parent of a child with Down Syndrome, you probably have many questions. But, first congratulations and welcome to the Columbus Area Down Syndrome Support Group. We are ready to share your new journey with you. Our members have all experienced the same joy, fears and deep emotions that you are most likely feeling right now. And we are ready to share your new journey with you and your family. We hope you find this page full of important information that helps you along the way.
The information provided at this Web site is considered general information for educational purposes and is not a substitute for the advice of your physician. If you think that your child needs medical attention, please go to or contact your physician or nearest health care provider.
Human Development Institute
The Human Development Institute at the University of Kentucky is the national clearinghouse for peer-reviewed and accurate information about your diagnosis. Resources available include:
National Down Syndrome Society
National Down Syndrome Congress
Medical Information
Contact CADSSG
Mailing Address
The Columbus Area Down Syndrome Support Group
The Arc Center for Excellence
2060 Doctor Park Drive
Columbus, Indiana 47203