Students are encouraged to wear crazy socks tomorrow, March 21, in honor of World Down Syndrome Day.

The event, which was first observed in 2006 and recognized by the UN in 2012, raises awareness for Down syndrome with various events uniting those with Down syndrome and wearing and sharing #LotsOfSocks–brightly-colored, long, printed or odd-numbered socks. Karen Dabney, transition director and basic science teacher, said the date of the holiday relates to Down syndrome.

“The significance of the date, 3-21, is because on the 21st chromosome, individuals with Down syndrome have three copies of that chromosome, and typical people have two,” Dabney said. “The reason they do socks is because chromosomes look like socks.”

Those interested can donate to the Panhandle Down Syndrome Guild, although participating in #LotsOfSocks is free.

“We’ll celebrate by wearing crazy socks, hopefully taking pictures and spreading awareness about the students in our school with Down syndrome,” Dabney said. “I know the Donut Stop in Amarillo is donating proceeds to the Panhandle Down Syndrome Guild. They do various things around Amarillo for the Down Syndrome Guild so they can raise money for the Buddy Walk that’s always in September.”

Dabney said those with Down syndrome can do many things typical members of the community can do.

“They can work; they can hold jobs; they can be married and be in relationships,” Dabney said. “They participate on our Special Olympics team. We have basketball players and cheerleaders.”

Dabney, who also volunteers locally with with the Down Syndrome Guild, has worked throughout her career with students who have Down syndrome and said she’s always felt a special connection with them.

“I love them,” Dabney said. “Kids with Down syndrome are my heart.”