Most of us have been there before. We’ve done our laundry, folded all our clothes, and then we find two unmatched socks in the bottom of the basket. We open the dryer and hope to see that matching sock to complete the pair, but then realize, those matching socks may reappear someday.

On March 21st, AIP Marketing Alliance encouraged our team to wear their best unmatched socks as a way to show our support for World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) through its Lots of Socks event. The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome. This year’s campaign is With Us Not For Us.

The Lots of Socks campaign aims to raise awareness of Down syndrome among the community, as well as raise funds for a local Down syndrome association. The idea behind the Lots of Socks initiative is acceptance of all our differences, and what makes us unique as an individual. It also starts a conversation, so when people ask you about your socks, you can tell them, “I’m wearing them to raise awareness of Down syndrome.”

Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome. Around 1 in every 800 babies will be born with Down syndrome, and it occurs naturally – there is no known cause. Down syndrome usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability and associated medical issues.

You can follow the conversation on social media by posting your Lots Of Socks selfie using the campaign hashtag

#LotsOfSocks and post to the official WDSD social media pages:

• Facebook – @WorldDSDay
• Twitter – @WorldDSDay
• Instagram – @WorldDownSyndromeDay

As part of AIPMA’s support of World Down Syndrome Day, Vice President Darron Markwood also recommends checking out the efforts of the Smile Project Louisville, run by Michael Ray. His daughter, “Maddie Moo,” stars in these videos, and together, they have started a “smile” movement that continues to gain momentum in their local area and nationwide. You also can check out their videos on Facebook.

“Honestly, if you need a smile to brighten your day, take a minute to check out Michael Ray and Maddie Moo, as their smiles are VERY contagious,” Markwood added. “They are such an inspiration and truly show how to enjoy life as they continue to support so many people in need and put a smile back on their faces.”

You also can learn more about the Lots of Socks day to support World Down Syndrome Day by clicking here and learn more about supporting the Smile Project Louisville at their website.