BELLEFONTE — The Centre County Board of Commissioners proclaimed October Down Syndrome Awareness Month in the county.

The proclamation calls attention to the 6 million people worldwide who live with Down syndrome, which is a chromosomal variation that can manifest in various physical, cognitive and physiological ways.

This proclamation also urges people to recognize the rights, abilities and potential of people with Down syndrome.

About 1 in 700 children born has Down syndrome.

Within the community, there are many people living with Down Syndrome, many with families and many of whom have banded together to advocate for people with the condition. More importantly, the group encourages and creates space for people with Down syndrome to be self-advocates.

Almost 20 years ago, five local families established a support and advocacy group for people with Down syndrome and their families — the Centre County Down Syndrome Society.

Since then, the group has expanded their reach — serving over 100 families across 14 counties — now being recognized as the Centre Region Down Syndrome Society (CRDSS).

The CRDSS provides many services to rural areas in Pennsylvania, which are typically underserved in terms of Down syndrome services and resources. These services include purchasing mobility assistance, providing funding for learning and therapy sessions and volunteering for the Special Olympics.

Through their work, the CRDSS seeks to pour back into the community while offering services to people with Down syndrome, partnering with local organizations in the service of ensuring the lives of people with Down syndrome are fulfilling.

If you would like to support the CRDSS’ Down Syndrome Awareness Month endeavors, the Society will host their annual Buddy Walk on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Delta High School in State College. The event will run from 2 to 5 p.m., with the walk beginning at 3:30 p.m.

The festivities will include food, music, dancing, a bounce house, yard games and more. There will also be a tattoo artist on site, so eventgoers can get tattoos supporting the Down Syndrome Awareness cause.