Upside of Downs-Augusta, GA

06/13/2026

Happy Birthday, Cooper! You are such a gift to us all and your smile is absolutely contagious! Wishing you a fantastic day! 🎉🥳🎈❤️🎉

06/06/2026

Upside of Downs is deeply saddened by recent reports that a pregnancy was terminated following a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome.

As an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families, we believe that a person's value, worth, and potential are never determined by a diagnosis. Every individual deserves to be welcomed, loved, and given the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life.

People with Down syndrome bring joy, compassion, resilience, and unique gifts to the world every day. Their lives matter, and their contributions enrich all of us.

While families facing a prenatal diagnosis often navigate difficult emotions and decisions, we believe it is essential that they receive accurate information, compassionate support, and opportunities to connect with individuals and families who are living and thriving with Down syndrome.

Today, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for inclusion, acceptance, and the inherent dignity of every person with Down syndrome. We will continue working to build a world where every life is valued and every individual is recognized for who they are—not defined by a diagnosis.

Every life has value. Every person belongs. 💙💛

06/05/2026

When receiving a Down syndrome diagnosis, parents are almost always handed a list of statistics, delays, and potential medical hurdles. While those facts matter, they are only a fraction of the story. Medical providers have a profound responsibility to deliver a complete picture and that must include the immense joy, deep love, and vibrant life that lies ahead. Let’s encourage our medical community to reframe the conversation and remember to tell them about the joy.

06/05/2026

Another fun trip to the zoo! 🦍🐅🐊🦏

Thank you to Beth Merranda and Chrissy Brackin for sharing your photos with us! If you joined us, add your photos below!

05/30/2026

Want to help us plan the most anticipated event of the year??? Come join the Buddy Walk Committee as we begin preparing for the 2026 Augusta Buddy Walk!

*Please note the new meeting location.

05/26/2026

We are currently seeking three new members to join our Executive Board! As a completely volunteer-run organization, we are looking for individuals with a strong volunteer spirit, a passion for supporting our mission, and a willingness to commit their time and talents to helping our organization grow.

We are currently looking to fill the following positions:

Secretary
Responsibilities include:
Taking meeting minutes
Answering and sending emails
Updating our website with current events

Social Media Manager
Responsibilities include:
Managing our Facebook account
Managing our Instagram account
Helping share upcoming events, resources, and organization updates with our community

Member at Large
This role does not have specifically designated duties, but includes:
Attending all board meetings
Assisting with events and organizational support as needed

If you are interested in serving or would like more information, please email [email protected].

We are so grateful for the volunteers who help make our organization possible and look forward to welcoming new members to our board team!

05/25/2026

❤️🤍💙

05/24/2026

Join us at the Riverbanks Zoo for our annual zoo trip!
Here's the deets:
🦁Tuesday, June 2nd at 9:30 am
🦓Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC
🦒Upside of Downs will cover the cost of 4 tickets (person with Down syndrome and 3 guests). Children under 2 are free. Additional tickets can be purchased at the gate.
🦍 Don't forget to bring a bathing suit and towel for the splash pad!

🐅RSVP by May 29th: https://forms.gle/deCimj1r5LNcWvyVA

05/23/2026

What a blast we had at Game Night! Huge thank you to our fabulous volunteers that played games with our buddies while their parents heard a presentation from Brendan N. Fleming, Attorney at Law.

05/17/2026

Introducing Happy Talk Augusta! Upside of Downs is happy to partner with Happy Talk for baby & me music, sign and sensory classes! Please comment or send us a message to receive registration instructions!

It’s a happy Friday y’all because registration is now OPEN! 🥳🙌🏼🎉 Join us for our first ever Tinies Mini Session this summer!

Each class focuses on a daily routine to provide you with language support for your little one through three research-backed avenues- routine, repetition, and relationship (AKA The Three R’s!) ✨

We will sing, dance, bounce, play, and giggle together each week while you learn new strategies, songs, and signs to use at home 🌈

Click the 🔗 below to register! Spots are limited so sign up ASAP ☀️

https://forms.gle/iWGSiy3CH1ukKNx2A

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