PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) –March 21 is celebrated as World Down Syndrome Day. For parents of individuals with Down syndrome, they think it’s pretty great their kids get a day dedicated to them.
“Knowing that individuals with down syndrome have a day set aside to celebrate their uniqueness and all of the things they get to do in the world is pretty dang awesome,” Davenie Deutsch, mother, and employment specialist at the ARC, said.
Besides a celebration, there is a theme for World Down Syndrome Day, and this year the theme is inclusion.
“Instead of seeing them and not talking engage with them. A friendly smile goes a long way and I will guarantee that these individuals will really help you appreciate every day that you have,” Deutsch said.
Non-profits like the ARC of the Bay allows for individuals with down syndrome to be included in the workforce as well.
“So like Amanda she got a job, she goes to work she earns a paycheck she has respect and is able to be a functioning member of society,” Deutsch, said.
For those who aren’t ready to enter the workforce, the ARC has other programs such as their culinary institute, and adult day training.
The Down Syndrome Association of the Emerald Coast is also another nonprofit that offers programs for individuals in Bay County.
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