Who We Serve

Any child/family in the Down Country demographic area (see map below) with a baby:
• Born with Down syndrome
• Up to age 5 at time of application

Our Commitment

Down Country believes every child is a gift, every child can learn, and every child learns differently. Through the #Lucky Few Baby First Program, we ensure new families have early access to the best resources available.

What’s Included

Families will be sponsored to attend the National Down Syndrome Congress Annual Convention, with coverage up to $2,000:
  • Airfare
  • Hotel accommodations
  • Conference registration fees

Why It Matters

This one-year program is designed to:
  • Provide access to the latest medical, educational, behavioral, and technological information
  • Connect families with experts and other parents walking the same journey
  • Empower families to help their loved ones with Down syndrome live their best, fullest lives

How to Apply, Contact:

Kate Dougherty, President & Founder
      217-617-3568
      info@upatdowncountry.com
      www.upatdowncountry.com
Together, We Believe

Every Child is a Gift.
Every Child Can Learn.
Every Child Learns Differently

Down Country Baby's First Ellis Haskins
Down Country Baby's First Ellis Haskins (1)
Down Country Baby's First Ellis Haskins (2)
Down Country Baby's First Ellis Haskins (5)
Down Country Baby's First Ellis Haskins (3)
Down Country Baby's First Ellis Haskins (4)

Some stories begin with certainty, and others take unexpected turns that shape us in ways we never imagined.

At 20 weeks along, a phone call changed everything for the Haskins family: genetic testing showed a high chance of Down syndrome. It was unexpected, unfamiliar and filled with uncertainty. When Ellis was born, every fear faded the moment his parents held him. He was perfect, exactly as he was meant to be.

From day one, his big sisters and brother adored him. Not because of a diagnosis, but because he was their baby brother. His parents made a personal choice to let their children experience Ellis this way, knowing that love would come first, before labels. And it has. His first year has been filled with laughter, snuggles and milestones that have made their hearts swell with pride. Ellis has defied expectations, lighting up every room with his smile, clapping and crawling!

Now, as the very first participant in Down Country’s “Baby’s First” program, Ellis is stepping into a new chapter filled with opportunity, support and advocacy. His parents are eager to learn everything they can, with a special focus on helping him develop strong communication skills so his voice is always heard.

Ellis’s journey is one of resilience, love and the beautiful unknown. His family believes in him completely, and they know he’s going to do great things.

Join us in celebrating Ellis and the incredible future ahead!