"Color Our Community" to Celebrate WDSD 2023

Edmeston, New York, February 21, 2023 … Pathfinder Village invites community members and local families to “Color Our Community” in blue and yellow on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day 2023. WDSD is a celebration that highlights the talents and inclusion of people with Down syndrome in communities around the globe.

“We invite our friends and neighbors to put out blue and yellow ribbons, make wreaths or signs, or hang out colorful lights to show their support for those with Down syndrome,” said Monica Clark, Pathfinder’s Manager of Fund Development and People Engagement. “Many of us have enjoyed friendships and meaningful moments with individuals with Down syndrome who color our lives in lasting ways. This is a fun way to show support, boost spirits, and celebrate locally.”

Additionally, Pathfinder will mark WDSD through its 21-Day Challenge, starting on March 1, and participate in the “Rock your Socks” crazy socks day on March 21st which is a mainstay of the global WDSD event. To learn more about “Color Our Community” and Pathfinder’s 21-Day Challenge and other activities, visit the Village’s Facebook and Instagram pages. The Pathfinder Village Foundation will also have its $21 Challenge as a WDSD fundraiser on its online donations page. The goal this year is to receive 2,100 $21 donations.

March 21 – “3-21” – is observed as World Down Syndrome Day as the numerical date represents the triplication of the 21st chromosome in the human genotype, the genetic cause of 95% of occurrences of Down syndrome or Trisomy 21. WDSD has been observed since 2006; it first received recognition from the United Nations in 2012. Blue and yellow have long been viewed as the traditional colors of Down syndrome awareness.

Community members who submit photos and participate through Pathfinder’s social media for “Color Our Community” will be judged to win Pathfinder Village-themed gear.

Pathfinder Village is an internationally respected open-access community and services provider in upstate New York and was founded in 1980 to provide people with Down syndrome and other disabilities an independent and fulfilling lifestyle. As it works to provide quality services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, the Village also offers highly successful educational, day services, pre-vocational, and outreach programs. To learn more, plan a visit or visit our fan page on the popular social networking sites, Facebook and Instagram.

Students from Otsego Academy and Colgate University decorate the Town of Edmeston’s Gazebo in blue and yellow in celebration of last year’s World Down Syndrome Day; many members of the local business community also showed their support through bright decorations and signs. Other ways to celebrate WDSD include taking Pathfinder Village’s 21-Day Challenge, taking part in its $21 fundraising challenge, or wearing festive, mismatched socks on March 21.