Let's Shine the Spotlight on Those Extra Special Folks - World Down Syndrome Day
International Day for the Celebration of Persons with Down Syndrome: March 21st
Y'all, we're absolutely stoked to celebrate one of our most beloved groups in this big ol' world, and it's the people with an extra chromosome! That's right, we're talkin' 'bout the folks living with Down Syndrome. This week, we're raising our hands high for them, and our hearts even higher.
Now, there's a special connection to this day here at Gardenuity. Our CEO and Co-founder's got a rad daughter with special needs, and so does our amiable Channel Sales Associate. Plus, we've got some amazing employees among us who are proud to be a part of the Down Syndrome community themselves!
We're takin' a stand on the 21st of March every year – yep, you guessed it, that's World Down Syndrome Day. Its purpose? To create awareness, spread compassion, and strive for equality for those gifted individuals livin' with varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability that come hand-in-hand with that little extra chromosome on the 21st.
So Why the 21st of March?
Well, you see, folks with Down Syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21. Ta-da! The third month, the 21st day – there ya have it!
Equality, Empathy, and Understanding for All
This world's a better place when we treat everyone with equal rights, empathy, and a solid understanding of one another. We're firm believers that our pals with Down Syndrome deserve to be valued and accepted members of the community, just like everyone else.
Sadly, it's a dirty truth that for far too long, those with Down Syndrome and other special needs have been overlooked, shunted aside, and forgotten by society. That's an unacceptable legacy, and we're determined to shake things up!
We value and appreciate the power that our Down Syndrome people bring, and we're committed to supporting and elevating those with diverse capabilities and challenges. We want to watch them thrive, share their wisdom, and inspire our hearts!
Making Gardening Accessible for Special Individuals
We're all about makin' gardens and gardening experiences accessible to everyone, no matter where they live, work, or play. We've got some amazing special adults growin' alongside us, teachin' us life lessons and spreadin' joy.
Children with special needs often receive heaps of attention, support, and resources during their adolescence. But, unfortunately, as they transition into adulthood, the opportunities for them shrink.
That's why we hire individuals with special needs and provide them with purposeful, fulfilling work that fills their hearts with a sense of belonging. Because, heck, ain't everyone lookin' for that?
Understandin' Each Other – Straight from the Source
The best way to get to know someone is by talkin' to 'em, so we did just that! We sat down with some of our amazing team members to share their insights and stories.
What They Love Most About Themselves
Meet our fantastic team members, part of Gardenuity's secret sauce of success and inspiration.
[Employee 1]"I love movies, arts and crafts, horseback riding, work, yoga, and country music. I got a brother and a bunch of extended family I adore. My daily routine is crucial to me: I attend a day program three days a week, ride horses one day, and work one to two days. I'm a powerhouse in the Reading Glasses To Go fulfillment team, crankin' out 500 boxes in just five hours! I also assist wherever they need help. Companies like Gardenuity and Reading Glasses Inc are recognizin' the true talents of individuals with disabilities and puttin' them to good use."
[Employee 2]"Down Syndrome is just a label, a congenital condition. It doesn't define stereotypes or lack of abilities. People with Down Syndrome can be just as intelligent and receptive as anyone else. Given the same support and respect as any other person, those with Down Syndrome can thrive and lead happy, healthy lives."
The Extraordinary Qualities of a Daughter with Down Syndrome
[Parent of Employee 2]"There are so many amazing qualities about my daughter, Happy. One of my favorites is her great sense of humor. She always makes us laugh, from all-of-a-sudden witty comments to giggling fits. She can turn a rotten day around in an instant. She's an ultimate attitude adjuster and brings perspective to what's truly important."
Dreams for the Future
[Parent of Employee 2]"My hope is that Happy continues to have fulfilling, meaningful employment, friends, social opportunities, and the ability to be as independent as possible. I'd like her to have a long, happy, healthy life!"
A Piece of Advice for New Parents of Children with Special Needs
[Parent of Employee 2]"Treat your children with special needs as equals to other children. Sign them up for every opportunity, and don't let their disability hold you back. Understand that people might not know how to react to your child's disability, so be open, proud, and educate them. But most importantly, keep livin' your lives and pursuin' your dreams – there's no need to stop or limit 'em just because your child has a disability."
The Power of Gardening
Just like the plants we nurture in our gardens, those with special needs can flourish when given the proper care, attention, and supportive environment. Gardening offers immense benefits, including improving mental and physical health, building confidence, and creating connection with the natural world.
According to Rise Services, gardening can instill a sense of responsibility, care, and nurturing in people with disabilities while keeping them connected to nature and living things. So, let's embrace the power of gardening to bring people together and create an inclusive world where everyone can find their place of belonging.
Spreading the Word – World Down Syndrome Day Style!
Be a part of the change! Let's raise awareness, spread compassion, and demand equal opportunities for individuals with Down Syndrome. Together, we are stronger, wiser, and more empowered to create a brighter future for us all.
Sources:[1] University of Florida-IFAS Extension. (2013). Adaptive gardening for gardeners with disabilities.[2] National Down Syndrome Society. (2019). The Connection Between Horticulture Therapy and Down Syndrome.[3] American Horticultural Therapy Association. (2018). Horticultural Therapy and People with Dementia.[4] American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. (2015). Gardening as a functional health promotion intervention: Promoting emotional well-being.[5] Stott, C., & Hadden, G. (2007). Environmental Horticulture Curriculum for People with Visual Impairments. VCU Department of Landscape and Urban Planning.
- As gardening enthusiasts, we are advocates for the health-and-wellness benefits of gardening, including its positive impact on those with special needs.
- From gardening to science, there's a growing interest in the connections between horticulture and mental-health improvements for people of all backgrounds.
- In the realm of lifestyle choices, we support the integration of gardening activities into home-and-garden and men's-health routines to foster personal growth and well-being.
- In today's society, it's crucial that we emphasize the importance of mental-health and embrace discussions on mental-health issues, just like we do on World Down Syndrome Day.
- Pets offer an alternative source for companionship and stress-reduction, akin to the emotional support provided by well-tended gardens, making pet-care an essential aspect of lifestyle management.
- As we strive for positive self-development, it's essential to nurture relationships with others, and World Down Syndrome Day gives us the opportunity to celebrate the bond between individuals with and without Down Syndrome.
- As global travelers, we're more inspired than ever to explore new destinations and immerse ourselves in diverse cultures – learning, growing, and broadening our perspectives across continents.
- To make a lasting impact on our communities, we advocate for career-development opportunities that are accessible to those with special needs, helping to bridge the gap between ability and employment.
- Education and self-development are cornerstones of our mission, leading us to invest in the development of adaptive gardening tools, resources, and programs for the benefit of women's-health, parenting, and fashion-and-beauty communities.
