In 2009, Ellen and Rob Snow had their second son, Henry. Henry was born with Down syndrome.
What began as the toughest news the Snows had ever heard, soon turned into the greatest gift their family had ever received. The Snows jumped into the DS community. Rob joined a local DS board, and Ellen got involved in policy-making and support groups. After attending several conferences on a national level, Rob and Ellen met so many organizations doing incredible things to enhance the lives of those with Down syndrome. The issue was that all of these organizations needed funding help. So they began brainstorming.
In 2013, they created Stand Up For Downs. The idea generated from Rob's background in stand-up comedy and producing comedy events, and Ellen's background in putting together events for her previous employer. Their mission was simply to enhance the lives of those with Down syndrome through humor. They began to produce comedy events and other unique fundraisers, then give back the money to the DS community through grants and sponsorships. Since 2013, SUFD has hosted over 40 events, and has raised over $500,000. This has allowed them to grant or sponsor over 50 individuals and organizations in the disability community.