Celebrating National Social Work Month at DSACO
March is National Social Work Month - a time to recognize the compassion, advocacy, and dedication of social workers who walk alongside individuals and families through life’s most meaningful and challenging moments. The 2026 theme from the National Association of Social Workers, “Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform,” reflects the heart of our work at the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio (DSACO).¹
At DSACO, social work is woven into everything we do. We support people with Down syndrome and their families prenatally through adulthood across 25 counties in Central Ohio, ensuring no family navigates the journey alone.
Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform.
Uplift
We uplift families from the very beginning. From diagnosis onward, DSACO provides accurate information, emotional support, and connection to a welcoming community. As children grow, our support evolves, but our commitment remains steady.
How we uplift:
Hospital Care Packages | When a loved one with Down syndrome has an extended hospital stay, we provide thoughtfully curated care packages to offer comfort and encouragement. Each includes a handmade blanket, a soft Battle Pup, along with toiletries and essential items to help make their time in the hospital a bit more comfortable.
Adopt-A-Family Program | Because disability and poverty are closely connected, many families in our community face significant economic barriers.² The Adopt-A-Family Program provides critical holiday support while reinforcing a powerful message: families in our community are seen, valued, and supported.
Grief Support | In times of profound loss, we offer compassionate presence, ongoing care, and meaningful connection, walking alongside families with empathy and remembrance.
Defend
We defend the dignity and well-being of the families we serve by removing barriers and connecting them to essential supports. In times of financial strain, medical crisis, or unexpected hardship, DSACO provides compassionate, practical assistance so no family faces challenges alone
How we defend:
Grocery Support | Many people with disabilities rely on public assistance programs yet still experience low or very low food security.³ Grocery gift cards provide immediate support for families facing financial strain, helping ensure consistent access to food and other essential household needs.
Diapers and Wipes | With 50% of U.S. families struggling to buy diapers for their children, essential supplies like diapers and wipes can make a meaningful difference during tight seasons.⁴
Gifts of Kindness | Through a partnership with The Columbus Foundation, our Gifts of Kindness program provides emergency financial assistance to families facing urgent needs. Whether related to housing, utilities, or other critical expenses, this support helps stabilize families during times of crisis.
Transform
We transform lives and communities through connection, empowerment, and opportunity. By walking alongside families across the lifespan, we help build confidence, strengthen advocacy skills, and foster a true sense of belonging.
How we transform:
Community Access Funds | We believe every person with Down syndrome deserves access to enriching experiences. DSACO’s Community Access Fund helps remove financial barriers, so individuals can participate in inclusive programs and activities in the community.
Resource and Community Navigation | DSACO helps families navigate opportunities within the ElevateDD communities and across all stages of life. With so many programs and services available, we ensure families have the information and support they need to connect with what is best for them right now.
A Commitment That Extends Beyond March
National Social Work Month reminds us that social workers are steady advocates, listeners, and leaders, but this work extends far beyond one month. Every day, DSACO is committed to uplifting families, defending dignity, and transforming challenges into growth.
When families are supported, communities grow stronger. If you or someone you know could benefit from DSACO’s support, we are here, from diagnosis through adulthood, across 25 counties.
To the families we serve: thank you for trusting us.
To social workers everywhere: thank you for the ways you uplift, defend, and transform lives.
References
National Association of Social Workers. (2026). Theme and rationale for Social Work Month 2026. https://www.socialworkers.org/News/Social-Work-Month/Theme-and-Rationale-2026
Groce, N., Kett, M., Lang, R., & Trani, J. (2011). Disability and poverty: A conceptual review. Leonard Cheshire Disability and Inclusive Development Centre.
Center for American Progress. (n.d.). Financial inequality: Disability, race, and poverty in America [PDF].
Bottoms Up Diaper Bank. (2026). Bottoms Up Diaper Bank: Helping single mothers provide diapers for their children. https://www.bottomsup.life/
