Barren River Area Development District
Jun 22, 2026
BRADD-secured funding launches first phase of new facility to serve Down syndrome families across southern Kentucky
In the summer of 2025, Down Syndrome of Southern Kentucky (DSSKy) contacted the Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) to pursue funding for a new Buddy House, the existing facility that serves Down Syndrome families across 14 southern Kentucky counties. BRADD's lead Community Development Specialist, Matt Pedigo, pursued a Community Development Block Grant application and was later approved for $850,000. That funding is enough to begin phase one of the new Buddy House, a project with a total funding goal of roughly $2 million.
The new Buddy House at 362 Great Escape Court in Bowling Green will increase the nonprofit's space from roughly 2,500 square feet to more than 15,000 square feet.
DSSKy serves more than 200 regional Down Syndrome patients and families from its current 522 State St. facility, which is only 2,500 square feet. The organization does not turn anyone away but lacks the space to serve clients to the fullest. The new facility will provide space for age-level classrooms, more room for exercise, social events, vocational preparation and many other support services. The new Buddy House was conceived with the region's growth in mind, to serve Down Syndrome families for generations to come.
The nearest facility with similar services for Down Syndrome families is in Louisville. This project will greatly enhance Down Syndrome services while also easing these families' challenges, such as travel logistics and expenses, by providing a centrally located south-central Kentucky facility.