The date for World Down Syndrome Day is March 21, the 21st day of the 3rd month. It was selected to signify the 3 copies of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome (Trisomy-21). Each year, it is a time to celebrate those with Down syndrome and to bring awareness worldwide that all people are all much more similar than any one of our differences. There are a lot of wonderful stories shared each year, and this year was no different. Here are some of our favorites from World Down Syndrome Day 2021.

Ruby’s Rainbow Exceeds Their Fundraising Goal

Each year, Ruby’s Rainbow raised money in the weeks leading up to World Down Syndrome Day in order to fund scholarships to send adult with Down syndrome to college. The goal each year is to raise $321,000, enough to fund 65 scholarships. Not only did they reach their goal for the first time this year, they exceed it. As of March 21, 2021, Ruby’s Rainbow had raised $412,000, with donations still coming in.

To learn more about Ruby’s Rainbow, make a donation, see their successful Rockin’ Recipients, or learn how to apply for a scholarship, visit their website, Instagram, or Facebook.

Ironman Chris Nikic is Inspiring Others

After our interview with the inspirational Chris Nikic and his accomplishment of being the first person with Down syndrome to complete and Ironman triathlon, we have become big fans. ESPN did a wonderful article about Chris Nikic, and 14 year old Caleb Prewitt who is inspired by him. It is wonderful to see Chris take on the role of mentor and to inspire others to “Always be 1 percent better,” each and every day.

Sting Sings About the Hiring Chain

“The baker hires Simone”, a woman with Down syndrome, setting a chain reaction where others see the great work that people with Down syndrome are doing in their community and leads them to hire someone with Down syndrome as well. Sting has collaborated with CoorDown on this uplifting song about the power of a single hire to inspire others to do continue this virtuous cycle. See the video and learn more about the campaign at HiringChain.org