Leeds United Foundation celebrate World Down Syndrome Day
Participants and staff support annual awareness event.
Today marks World Down Syndrome Day, the global event that is held annually to celebrate people with Down syndrome and raise awareness about the disorder.
The event is held every year on 21st March and is a time to celebrate every person across the world that has Down syndrome, recognising all of their achievements through ups and downs and the contributions they make to society.
World Down Syndrome Day also offers an opportunity to raise awareness and increase levels of acceptance and understanding for people with Down syndrome along with their friends and families, remembering the vital role they all play in our lives and communities.
To help celebrate the special occasion the Leeds United Foundation have been using the programmes they deliver across the city to encourage more people to take part in the #LotsofSocks campaign. Developed by Down Syndrome International, the #LotsofSocks campaign was created to help raise awareness with the socks signifying chromosomes which is a nod to people who have Down syndrome as they are born with an extra chromosome.
The main aim of the #LotsofSocks campaign is to encourage people to start a conversation around diversity, uniqueness, inclusion, equality and acceptance.
Through the club’s official charity and the various disability programmes currently being delivered we are able to offer a number of opportunities for people with Down syndrome, adults and children, to take part in sports and play football – giving them the chance to improve their skills, take part in competitive fixtures and most importantly have fun.
The Leeds United Foundation also continue to work with local organisation Sunshine & Smiles that works as a support network for families in Leeds with a child or young person with Down syndrome. To learn more about the fantastic work they do, please click here.
If you would like more information on the opportunities available for people with disabilities within the Leeds United Foundation, please contact Anthony.Hall@leedsunited.com.
We are asking all Leeds United supporters to get involved in the #LotsofSocks campaign today to show your support for World Down Syndrome Day - make sure to share your photos across social media and tag @LUFC.
