What is StepUP! #21YourWay?
StepUP! #21YourWay is a national fundraising and awareness campaign held during Down Syndrome Awareness Month every October. It celebrates the significant contributions people with Down syndrome make to our communities and raises valuable funds to support the Down Syndrome Federation. It takes place with a variety of face-to-face events around the country as well as the option to participate online with #21YourWay.
We used to just have StepUP! What’s the difference between StepUP! and #21YourWay?
In 2020 the #21YourWay campaign was developed to ensure people around the country could participate, no matter their location or pandemic status! Due to its popularity and success #21YourWay is here to stay, we think it’s the perfect combination allowing people all across the country to support Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October.
Who can participate in StepUP! #21YourWay?
You can choose to attend a face-to-face StepUP! event in your area, or you can participate virtually with #21YourWay. Both options are open to anyone and everyone. We especially welcome our supporters and partners, people with Down syndrome, their families, friends and allies.
How does the online component, #21YourWay, work?
Take on a challenge of your choosing during the month of October. Do it 21 times, do it your way! You might decide to do it in one go, or maybe you’ll break it up, the choice is yours. The important thing is that you share it with us by using the hashtag #21YourWay on social media.
Need a little inspiration?
- Take a photo of something that you’re grateful for, for 21 days over the month of October
- Do 21 star jumps every day in October
- Learn 21 new dance moves over the month of October
- Give up sugar for 21 days
The #21YourWay challenge that you select should reflect who you are, and what you stand for.
Ask your state or territory how best to get involved where you live.
Why #21?
The significance of 21 is that most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes in each of their cells (46 in total). People with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes in their cells. They have an extra chromosome 21, which is why Down syndrome is also known as trisomy 21.
#21YourWay is linked to challenging stereotypes about Down syndrome. We want to show that people with Down syndrome are unique, and that no one should be stereotyped. #21YourWay is about doing things YOUR way and showcasing creativity and individuality.
Why participate in StepUP! #21YourWay?
When you share your #21YourWay challenge using the hashtag #21YourWay or join in at a face-to-face event, you are helping to raise awareness of Down syndrome in the community. It’s also a great opportunity to raise funds for your local Down syndrome association to support the work they do advocating for people with Down syndrome and their families. Programs you will be supporting include social groups for individuals with Down syndrome, inclusive education support, new parent support, advocacy for the inclusion of people with Down syndrome and more.
StepUP! #21YourWay is a great conversation starter to raise awareness of Down syndrome which is ultimately why we are all here!
Ready? Get started! Click the logo below.
