#United States #New York #OUTFRONT Media #Down Syndrome #NDSS

OUTFRONT Media and National Down Syndrome Society Launch Inspirational Billboard Campaign

In a groundbreaking initiative, OUTFRONT Media, a leading out-of-home (OOH) media company in the United States, has teamed up with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to create a thought-provoking digital billboard campaign in honor of National Down Syndrome Awareness Week, which runs from March 15 to March 21. This special project shines a light on the abilities and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome across the nation.

The campaign features five remarkable individuals, each representing their own hometown. The selected personalities include:

• - Angad Sahgal from Atlanta, Georgia, an entrepreneur and founder of Chai Ho Tea LetMeDoIt.
• - Max Crawford from St. Peter’s, Missouri, founder of Max Mix Gourmet Spice Blends.
• - Julia Tyler from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the lead pattern designer at Dance Happy Designs.
• - Craig Blackburn from Metairie, Louisiana, an NFL team equipment manager.
• - Sean Davis from Houston, Texas, a classroom aide and ice cream shop employee.

The central theme of the campaign is encapsulated in the phrase, “I Got That Extra,” referring to the unique characteristics associated with the additional copy of chromosome 21 found in individuals with Down syndrome. This messaging aims to celebrate the significant and positive influence that these individuals have within their communities.

Kandi Pickard, the President and CEO of NDSS, stated, “Down syndrome awareness is pivotal for NDSS, but this collaboration with OUTFRONT pushes us beyond just raising awareness. We aim to shift perceptions of Down syndrome and tell authentic stories that change mindsets one billboard at a time.” This sentiment emphasizes the campaign's goal to encourage communities to view individuals with Down syndrome not just through the lens of their diagnosis but as capable, aspiring contributors to society.

The billboards, designed by OUTFRONT STUDIOS, the company’s in-house creative team, will be displayed prominently in the respective hometowns of the featured individuals, showcasing their achievements and challenging stereotypes. Each billboard will serve as a testament to the diverse paths of these individuals, affirming that they belong in all facets of community life.

“I feel proud to be part of this campaign because it shows that people with Down syndrome can accomplish anything,” expressed Angad Sahgal. He emphasized the importance of inclusion and encourages others to recognize the dreams and aspirations of individuals within the Down syndrome community. Meanwhile, Sean Davis stated, “Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day helps others see past a diagnosis. I am so much more than Down syndrome.”

Expressing her enthusiasm for the collaboration, Liz Rave, OUTFRONT’s Vice President of Marketing, remarked how vital it is to elevate important causes and individuals through their OOH creative efforts. She noted, “The partnership between NDSS and OUTFRONT STUDIOS is a proud endeavor aimed at reshaping community perceptions during this significant week.”

The initiative aligns with NDSS’s mission to enhance employment opportunities and create supportive resources for the Down syndrome community. Their Employment Program promotes the inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome in the workforce, offering essential training and advocacy for employers.

To learn more about the NDSS's initiatives, individuals are encouraged to share their stories and businesses on their website. Together with OUTFRONT Media, the NDSS strives to foster a more inclusive society where every person is celebrated for their unique contributions.

This creative billboard campaign not only raises awareness but also seeks to forge connections within communities, promoting understanding and respect for all individuals, regardless of their differences. As the movement gains momentum, OUTFRONT Media and the NDSS are dedicated to continuing their efforts long after Awareness Week has concluded, emphasizing that it takes a united community to create positive change.