ALABASTER – Mayor Marty Handlon called attention to a worthy cause at an Alabaster City Council meeting on Monday, Sept. 16, as she proclaimed the month of October to be National Down Syndrome Month.

Down Syndrome is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder and the leading cause of intellectual and developmental delay. In the United States, about one in every 700 children are born with Down Syndrome, representing an estimated 6,000 births per year.

Through the efforts of parents, activists and advocacy organizations, people with Down Syndrome have access to early intervention services, public school and health care. According to the mayor’s proclamation, they can choose to live at home or independently, receive transition services and vocational training, have meaningful relationships, maintain a job and experience a life of inclusion and rewarding maturity.

Through public awareness, the state supports the initiative of organizations working to ensure people with Down Syndrome have adequate services, are valued by society and can lead fulfilling and productive lives in the community. In Alabama, Oct. 1 is recognized as Alabama Down Syndrome Day, which launches the commemoration of October as National Down Syndrome Month.