Down Syndrome Awareness Month

October is the month to raise awareness for the people who have down syndrome. We raise awareness for those who have down syndrome so that we can promote inclusivity and increase our understanding of those who are impacted by it.

People in the city of Lakewood actually recognize the month of October as Disability Awareness Month instead of just for Down Syndrome to give an outreach of awareness. Regardless, there are many communities that have community events, educational campaigns, and advocacy activities. Some supporters like to wear blue and yellow shirts with mismatched fun colorful socks to show support. There are about 6 million people worldwide that have Down syndrome and roughly about 400,000 to 600,000 are from the United States. About 1 in 700 babies are born with Down syndrome.

One of the most famous campaigns is GiGi's Playhouse,  a website that helps fundraise for people who have Down syndrome. Alec Baldwin is an American actor who has been the most vocal about their community, what they do, and how they can help. Within the past year, they have made over $906,000 at the “I have a voice” Gala. They also made $220,000 at a local annual Gala and $93,951 at GiGi’s 5k and Dash for Down Syndrome in Lancaster. 

If you are looking to participate with something more local, DSA LA is putting on their annual T21 Walk and Festival on Sunday, November 8th, from 11am to 2:30pm at Santa Anita Park's Paddock Gardens. They are a great charity to donate to if you want to support them. DSA LA stands for Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles and has been a fundraiser for about 50 years. They have been providing to about 4,000 individuals with Down syndrome and to their families. Their goal for their walk and festival is to raise $60,000. As of October 2026, they have raised a little over $16,000 dollars.

There are many ways people observe Down syndrome awareness month. Even if you can’t help donate to communities or charities, you can still volunteer at many other events. All it takes is a little help to make a difference.

Image Courtesy of Wepik on Magnific.