Stand Up For Downs - The Improvaneers

Philanthropic Fundraising ServicesOhio, United States2-10 Employees

Enhancing the lives of those with Down syndrome through humor. That's the mission, but how does that actually play out in what we do? Great question reader! We(Rob and Ellen Snow) had our son Henry in 2009. Henry was born with Down syndrome. This event ultimately became the greatest thing that ever happened to our family. We immersed ourselves in the DS community, and in 2013, we took Rob's background in stand-up comedy and combined it with our passion for all things Down syndrome and formed Stand Up For Downs. From 2013 thru 2017 we raised money through comedy events and other unique and humor-themed events to the tune of $450,000. During that time we were able to grant or sponsor $350,000 to over 100 organizations in the DS and Disability community. And that made us very happy! But, in 2018, a new idea came to us, teaching improvisation to individuals with developmental disabilities to build skills that will greatly increase social, workplace, and lifetime opportunities.  We built this by first teaching an amazing group of 10 individuals with Down syndrome who formed the world's first all-Down syndrome improvisation troupe, The Improvaneers.  Then, when we honed the program, we created, The Improvaneer Method, which now exists as a separate entity teaching improvisation to over 1000 individuals with DD across North America.  SUFD is still a foundation where the money we raise continues to go towards mission-driven organizations in the Down syndrome community as well as helping subsidize improvisation classes and programs who might not have it in their budget.  We welcome any requests for information or questions from those interested. If nothing else, please feel free to follow our journey on our social media pages.

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