SMILE 4 Special Needs (#266): World Down Syndrome Day Celebration at Arcola on March 21, 2026

On Saturday, March 21, 2026, volunteers went to Arcola to help with the World Down Syndrome Day Celebration. The volunteers arrived early to prepare and organize for the activities provided. This included making balloon animals, as well as bucket drumming. 

Once the event began, many people came, curious about the balloon animals piled on the table and what AYLUS does. Some were even curious about how to make balloon animals, to which they learned simple ones, such as the sword. Many kids also found bucket drumming very fun, and played extremely passionately.

We supported the community in celebrating and recognizing down syndrome at the Arcola World Down Syndrome Day Celebration. Volunteers created a fun and interactive space, where everyone can enjoy themselves.

Event Lead (6 hours): Joshua Meng

Volunteers (5 hours): Hannah Zhang, Sean Luan

Parent on duty (5 hours): Lingyu Meng (Joshua)