About Us

Acton Up With Downs, Inc (AUWDI) is Bay County’s Down syndrome support group. AUWDI is committed to supporting and enhancing the quality of life, and realizing the potential of all people with Down syndrome. We promote awareness, acceptance and inclusion in our community through a variety of services.

•   Hosting the annual Bay County Buddy Walk

•   Maintaining the AUWDI Website

•   Publishing the AUWDI Newsletter

•   Hosting family support meetings & educational speaker meetings

•   Organizing activities for our Teen & Young Adult Group

•   Providing New Parent Packets

•   Maintaining a calendar of pertinent events and activities

•   Providing support and fellowship

•   Informing and educating the public about Down syndrome

•   Providing scholarships for families to attend Down syndrome conferences

 Down syndrome occurs in one out of every 733 live births, and more than 400,000 people in the U.S. have this genetic condition. One of the most frequently occurring chromosomal abnormalities, Down syndrome affects people of all ages, races and economic levels. Today, individuals with Down syndrome are active participants in the educational, vocational, social and recreational aspects of our communities. In fact, there are more opportunities than ever before for individuals with Down syndrome to develop their abilities, discover their talents and realize their dreams. For example, more teens and adults with Down syndrome each year are graduating from high school, going to college, finding employment and living independently.

AUWDI is encouraged by a growing effort to include all people with disabilities. People with Down syndrome attend school, work; participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many productive ways. People with Down syndrome, like everyone else, are people first, each with their own unique gifts to contribute to their families, friends and communities.

AUWDI relies on the collective efforts of parents, professionals, and concerned citizens to ensure acceptance of all people with disabilities is becoming even more widespread.