What You Should Know About World Down Syndrome Day

Today, March 21, is World Down Syndrome Day, a day to spread awareness and advocate for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of individuals with Down syndrome. This year’s theme is ” With Us Not For Us,” encouraging us all to take an empowering approach to our advocacy.

Here at Ohio Valley Goodwill, we’re shouting it from the rooftops, and we want you to join us. Here’s what you should know!

What is Down syndrome?

Down syndrome is a condition caused by an extra chromosome. There’s no known cause, and about 1 in every 700 babies will be born with it in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). While many people with Down syndrome share certain characteristics, it’s important to know that each person has different abilities, as well as different interests, hopes, and dreams!

What challenges do people with Down syndrome face?

People with Down syndrome often face hurdles to quality education, health care, and employment, according to Down Syndrome International. It’s one of the reasons the work we do here at Ohio Valley Goodwill is so vital to true community inclusion.

Goodwill’s employment services help people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities identify job opportunities that meet their needs and abilities, train for those jobs, and find fulfilling employment. When people with disabilities have access to work opportunities, they can achieve independence and personal success.

How can I be an advocate for people with Down syndrome?

There are many ways you can support the well-being of people with Down syndrome. Here are just a few:

• Learn More & Share: Down Syndrome International has plenty of resources to help you get informed and share the message. Use the hashtag #WorldDownSyndromeDay on social media.
  
  
• Join the Lots of Socks Campaign: Wear crazy socks today! Mismatched, brightly colored and more. This campaign is all about getting people talking. When someone asks you about your socks, tell them you’re raising awareness for World Down Syndrome Day!
  
  
• Support Goodwill: Whether you’re donating household items you no longer need, shopping at our thrift stores, or spreading the word about our services, you’re furthering Goodwill’s mission to empower people with disabilities, including Down syndrome.

Every day, we have the opportunity to make a change for others. World Down Syndrome Day is the perfect chance to become an advocate for others so they might find fulfillment, something we all deserve.

Ohio Valley Goodwill will continue to work every day to make this a reality in our community and beyond. Join us!