The North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance is committed to helping our staff and their families, our community groups, partners, and the Down syndrome community to stay healthy by doing what we can to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19. To help mitigate the impact of this evolving public health issue, NCDSA’s physical offices will be closed until further notice. NCDSA staff will be working remotely to serve children and adults with Down syndrome in North Carolina and available 9am-5pm EST by phone, email, and virtual meetings. In the meantime, please be safe and stay healthy! Learn more about Covid-19 and Down syndrome. 
World Down Syndrome Day
What is World Down Syndrome Day?
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), March 21th, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.
Why March 21st?
The date for WDSD, the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
How will you Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day???
World Down Syndrome Day Classroom Kits
Kits are designed for grades K-5 but may be adaptable to other classrooms. Kits include a lesson plan, media presentation, two classroom crafts, a book about Down syndrome, a note to send home with parents about the lesson, themed baseball cards for each student, and an “Ask Emma” section to submit any lingering questions.
If you live in North Carolina, please complete our registration form to request a classroom kit. We will ship kits across the state, but we ask that you pick up your classroom kit in person if you live near Raleigh or Fayetteville to help us reduce shipping costs.
Rock Your Socks in Honor of WDSD
Why rock your socks on World Down Syndrome Day?
Since the chromosomes look like socks when viewed on a karyotype, you can “rock your socks” by wearing unique, mismatched, and colorful socks on March 21st to support and create awareness. Make someone ask you about your socks so that you can tell them all about WDSD!
Dress Down for Down Syndrome
Your business or child’s school can get involved by hosting a “Dress Down” day on WDSD, where the participant makes a small donation to NCDSA to be able to “dress down” with jeans, silly socks, a hat, pajamas, whatever creative thing they come up with! Check with your employer or school to see if they would like to participate in this fun Down Syndrome Awareness Event.
NCDSA will provide small posters and Dress Down stickers upon request.
