The accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome will be on display in a big way as part of an awareness campaign springing up in cities across the country.

Billboards will debut on Saturday in five cities highlighting the employment successes of people with the chromosomal disorder.

The advertisements are part of a National Down Syndrome Society campaign dubbed “I Got That Extra.”

Each billboard features an individual with Down syndrome declaring something extra that they bring to the table — like warmth, ability, creativity or energy — and includes information about their job or business.

Those who are part of the campaign include the founder of a business providing gourmet spices, an entrepreneur who sells tea, an equipment team member for an NFL team and an ice cream shop employee.

“Together we are working towards something greater than awareness and shifting perceptions of Down syndrome,” said Kandi Pickard, president and CEO of the National Down Syndrome Society. “We’re telling stories and changing mindsets one billboard at a time.”

The billboards will appear in Atlanta, Philadelphia, Houston, St. Peter’s, Mo., and Metairie, La. Each one will feature an individual from the local community. The advertisements will be on display for a week culminating with World Down Syndrome Day on March 21.

“I’m proud to be part of this campaign because it tells the world that people with Down syndrome can do anything,” said Angad Sahgal, who is from Atlanta. “We have big dreams, and we deserve to be included and heard.”

Source: disabilityscoop