CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day, and a Heartland group is celebrating in a big way with a fashion show.
Gateway Down Syndrome Association has a chapter serving southeast Missouri and southern Illinois, located at 1427 Thomas Dr. in Cape Girardeau.
The organization offers members a variety of free resources, including access to programs, newsletters and invitations to events.
Membership is also free for families. Join by visiting gatewaydsa.org/signup/.
The date 3/21 is known as World Down Syndrome Day, representing the third copy of the 21st chromosome that leads to the developmental disability.
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On Saturday, March 21, there will be a fashion show to celebrate people living with Down syndrome.
Doors open at 5 p.m. at Roost at 39 N. Broadview St. in Cape Girardeau.
General admission is $10, premium seating is $15.
Both include a free drink ticket for beer, champagne, a soda or mocktail, and hors d’oeuvres.
Click here to purchase tickets.
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Programs coordinator Maria Marzuco said it’s the second year for the show, and more than 20 models with Down syndrome will walk the runway.
“We want to make sure that our friends with Down syndrome just have a lot of fun and it’s all about them and showcasing how amazing [they] are.”
Marzuco said last year’s event was sold out.
“We’re happy to really just keep growing everything we have going here and make sure we love every person with Down syndrome we can in the area.”
Volunteer spots for this year’s event are still open. Click here to register as a volunteer.
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