Raising Awareness on World Down Syndrome Day

If you’ve been touched by someone with Down syndrome, you’ve felt the bright light they shine. So let’s celebrate them, as well as those who love them and care for them, by shining a light on what Down syndrome is and a few of the organizations supporting individuals/families with Down syndrome.

Did you know…

• Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21, altering the course of development and causing the characteristics associated with Down syndrome.
• Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. Approximately one in every 772 babies in the US is born with Down syndrome – about 5,100 each year.
• Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels.
• Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 in 1983 to 60 today.
• People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, have meaningful relationships, vote, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.
• All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.
• Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends, and the community enable people with Down syndrome to lead fulfilling and productive lives.

Join us in bringing awareness to World Down Syndrome Day by making a financial donation, volunteering, wearing blue and yellow, lighting up a landmark (or your house) and/or wearing your favorite odd socks – since the 3 strands of Chromosome 21 just happen to look like socks.

Here are a few of our favorite organizations to consider supporting…

National Down Syndrome Society – Link to Donate / Support

Founded in 1979, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy, and Community Engagement.

 

GiGi’s Playhouse – Link to Donate / Support

With over 57+ brick-and-mortar locations across the United States and Mexico and 200 inquiries to start new locations all over the world, GiGi’s Playhouse is the ONLY network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers. Every day, we provide FREE, life-changing therapeutic, educational, and career training programs for 30,000+ individuals of all ages.

 

Global Down Syndrome Foundation – Link to Donate / Support

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation is a public non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to significantly improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through Research, Medical Care, Education and Advocacy.

 

National Down Syndrome Congress – Link to Donate / Support

The National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to an improved world for individuals with Down syndrome. Founded in 1973, we are the leading national resource of support and information for anyone touched by or seeking to learn about Down syndrome, from the moment of diagnosis, whether prenatal or at birth, through adulthood.

 

International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association – Link to Donate / Support

International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association is a nonprofit organization designed to provide support, information, and research to anyone touched by mosaic Down syndrome. IMDSA is run by families of individuals with mosaic Down syndrome and professionals interested in helping those with mosaic Down syndrome. Each officer volunteers his or her time to IMDSA to help provide support, information, and research to those affected by mosaic Down syndrome.