October 2022
Blue & Gold Fundraising Gala
On October 29, Rock the 21 held its Blue and Gold Gala, a fundraising event that supports children and adults with Down syndrome. The event was a huge success, bringing together members of the community to raise awareness and funds for a great cause.
The Gala featured a variety of activities, including a raffle, silent auction, photo booth, and live band. The photo booth was a big hit, with attendees accentuating their outfits with blue and gold boas and sunglasses to capture memories of the evening. But the highlight of the evening was the live band, which kept the crowd dancing all night!
The funds raised from the Blue and Gold Gala will go towards supporting a variety of initiatives. One of the most exciting is our new scholarship program, which will provide support to students with Down syndrome earning college credits or participating in job training programs. This scholarship will help individuals further their education and gain the skills they need to succeed in the workplace. The gala event not only raised funds for a great cause but also helped to promote awareness and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome. Thank you to all the attendees, supporters and volunteers who made this night possible. You truly rock!
September 2022
STEPPING STONES SCHOOL EARLY INTERVENTION SCHOLARSHIPS
One of our favorite programs is the Early Intervention Program at the Stepping Stones School. Rock’s board members have seen first-hand how vital early therapy was for their own kids and believe no child should miss out on such an important program due to financial constraints. Since our founding, we have donated more than $70K in scholarships to families in need, including $5K in scholarships this year.
NATIONAL DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. Like the NDSS, Rock the 21 is committed to helping those with DS and advocating for governmental policies that positively impact people with Down syndrome across the country. We proudly salute the NDSS who works tirelessly to improve the communities in which people with DS live and work. Thank you to all our generous donors who allow us to carry out this important work.
August 2022
BACK TO SCHOOL
Heading back to school will be a little easier for the families of 15 students who have DS. Rock the 21 provided gift cards for families with financial needs to help purchase backpacks, school supplies, and new clothes to ease the back-to-school transition, creating a strong start to the school year for students.
June 2022
School’s out for the summer!
That can only mean one thing…Summer Camp! Camp Hope has been providing an exceptional camp experience for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1956. It is a unique seven-week summer program that combines life skills, social and recreational activities with aquatics, sports, music, and art. Campers tackle new goals, build confidence, and form friendships to last a lifetime.
Rock the 21 donated $3,500 as part of a challenge grant on their June Giving Day! Funds will be used to offset the increased transportation costs due to rising in gas prices, bus driver shortages, and families without access to personal transportation. This will ensure every camper gets the camp experience they deserve!
March 2022
Rock the World: Supporting Ukraine
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched an unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, setting off the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II and sparking an enormous refugee crisis. During these types of crises, people with disabilities, including those with DS, face a greater risk of violence and neglect.
Thanks to our generous donors, Rock the 21 supported an appeal by The Down Syndrome Association based in the United Kingdom, to raise funds for people with DS and their families and caregivers in Ukraine.
As of May 10, 2022, the organization’s effort have supported more than 450 families—from direct financial support and housing, to medical attention, to internet connection for online school. Additionally, a delivery of humanitarian aide was made to Poland to further support refugees.
February 2022
Celebrating Heart Awareness Month
Did you know February was named American Heart Month by the American Heart Association? This month has special meaning to us at Rock the 21 as 50% of babies with DS are born with a congenital heart defect (CHD). In support of CHDs and the Rockstars impacted by it, we are proud to serve as a “Partner of Joy” to Hearts of Joy International’s upcoming fundraiser and gala. Our sponsorship will fund airfare for a mother and child from Uganda to India to receive life-saving heart surgery. Hearts of Joy is a non-profit that provides lifesaving heart surgeries to individuals with DS in countries where families cannot afford medical care.
