Celebrating 2023 - A Rockin’ Recap

March 2023

Rockin’ on World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a global event held annually on March 21st to raise awareness and celebrate individuals with Down syndrome. The day is marked by events and activities that aim to promote inclusion, support and acceptance for those with Down syndrome and their families.

The day started early for Rockstar, Cael, and his Board member mom, Ana. They helped to fill the Today Show Plaza in New York City with many others of the Down syndrome community. Their presence helped promote acceptance and inclusivity, two essential values that Rock the 21 strives to achieve. In Hoboken, our Board member, Tara, visited a local elementary school with a lesson of acceptance. The kindergartners were led through a series of activities that celebrated their differences and taught how the uniqueness in all of them is what makes the world so special. All the kids were rockin’ their crazy socks, too!!

Later that evening, Rock the 21 held its 7th annual connection event at the Westin in Jersey City. The event provided a platform for families to come together and celebrate the unique abilities and talents of individuals who rock their 21st chromosome. It is a great opportunity for families to meet and network with other families who share similar experiences. This sense of community is vital to families as it provides a support system and a space where individuals can feel seen and heard.

The evening was also an opportunity to honor advocates who have made significant contributions to the Down syndrome community. This year's inaugural "You Rock Award" was presented to Theresa Howard, a parent advocate who has worked tirelessly to develop sports programs for children of all abilities.

February 2023

Investing in Adikalie’s future

Rock the 21 is thrilled to continue our support of Adikalie—a thirteen-year-old boy with DS living in Sierra Leone, Africa. Rock the 21 began sponsoring Adikalie in 2019 and he has since become an extension of our Rock family. Our sponsorship will ensure Adikalie continues to receive critical physical and occupational therapies, as well as much-needed financial assistance towards school fees and a uniform.

This year, we also were able to gift him crayons, coloring & activity books and clothes. He and his family were excited to receive the extra supplies! And we were excited to see how much he has grown!