Rock Your Socks Unites Delaware

Salesianum School students filled in a last-minute need to ensure a successful World Down Syndrome Day

Rock Your Socks is once again bringing communities across Delaware together as the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (DSADE) prepares for World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, with schools, students, and businesses statewide joining the effort.

With fewer than two weeks remaining, DSADE staff faced the challenge of preparing more than 40,000 pairs of colorful, mismatched socks for distribution. Volunteers from Salesianum School and Padua Academy stepped in to help package and organize the socks, ensuring the statewide initiative could move forward.

“Every school district in the state participates in our Rock Your Socks program in some fashion, plus countless local businesses who either sell Rock Your Socks in their storefronts or wear the socks for World Down Syndrome Day,” said DSADE Executive Director Lauren Camp Gates. “That can mean over 40,000 pairs of socks need to be ready for World Down Syndrome Day. We couldn’t execute this program without the dedication of all the people—from educators to volunteers to students to business leaders—who step up to support our community.”

The DSADE community met with Gov. Matt Meyer on March 20, 2025. The group is booked to spend some time with the governor again this year, on March 19, to advocate and raise awareness for Down syndrome.

The Rock Your Socks campaign encourages participants to wear bold, mismatched socks to spark conversations about Down syndrome, symbolizing the three copies of the 21st chromosome. In addition to raising awareness, the initiative serves as a key fundraiser supporting DSADE’s year-round programs, including fitness initiatives, family outreach, and support services for individuals with Down syndrome.

World Down Syndrome Day events will take place across Delaware leading up to and on March 21. Activities begin March 18 with a guest bartender fundraiser at Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen in Newark, followed by similar events on March 19 at Rail Haus in Dover and The Starboard in Dewey Beach. That same day, DSADE members will travel to Dover to meet with Gov. Matt Meyer and join state legislators in recognizing the day.

On March 21, Delawareans are encouraged to participate in Rock Your Socks while supporting local businesses. Two Stones Pub will donate a portion of proceeds as part of its Ripple Effect campaign, and First State Tattoo will host a fundraiser offering Down syndrome-themed tattoos with proceeds benefiting DSADE.

The celebration concludes with the Run for the Buds 5K on Sunday at The Starboard in Dewey Beach, marking the first time the long-running event will be held in Sussex County. The race will bring together families, advocates, and community members in support of individuals with Down syndrome.

The Down Syndrome Association of Delaware continues to invite the public to participate in Rock Your Socks and other events, highlighting inclusion and celebrating the contributions of individuals with Down syndrome throughout the state.For more information, visit Down Syndrome of Delaware online.