Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day By Supporting Ruby's Rainbow
Ruby Plachta of Ruby’s Rainbow and her momma, Liz, visited with Studio 512 ahead of World Down Syndrome Day, which is coming up on March 21st, as a way to honor people born with an extra 21st chromosome.
Liz says, “Ruby’s Rainbow was inspired by a wish to grant just one scholarship to a college student with Down syndrome. Finding out that Ruby had Down syndrome did not change our family’s expectations for her future, and we vowed to give her every possible opportunity to learn, grow, flourish and become an important contributor to society and the community.” 883 scholarships and 3.2 million dollars later, Liz and Ruby continue to support young adults with Down syndrome who are seeking higher education.
Liz says, “The goal and mission at Ruby’s Rainbow is to grant scholarships to students with Down syndrome who are seeking post-secondary education, including enrichment or vocational classes, and helping them achieve their dreams of higher education while spreading awareness of their capabilities and general awesomeness.”
2025 update: Ruby is now 14, and she’s an eighth grader this year. She is really into sports, including basketball and bowling. She's continuing to cheer! She loves math, and still wants to be a chef when she grows up.
To get a glimpse of Ruby’s Rockin’ Recipients and be inspired by their incredible stories, check them out on Facebook or Instagram (@RubysRainbow) or at RubysRainbow.org.