New Paltz, NY — The State University of New York at New Paltz women's volleyball team is asking friends, family and fans to wear yellow or blue in the stands Saturday during their two matches against Mount Saint Mary College and Alfred University to support eight-year-old Samantha Black and her team of Samantha's Sunshine Gang in the Step Up for Down Syndrome Awareness Walk being held Sept. 24.
 
This past summer, Hawks junior setter and co-captain Cate DiGiacomo had the opportunity to work with Black at an extended year program and babysat for her throughout the last few months. The two developed a close bond through that time and DiGiacomo, a West Hartford, CT native herself, thought it vital to come through in support of Black as she puts together a team for the annual fundraiser.
 
"Samantha brought infectious joy and positivity to school and the community every day," DiGiacomo said. "She is known for having too many friends that want to play with her at recess and being adored by her classmates and teachers. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to see the determination and confidence Samantha holds every day."
 
Black has annually participated in the Step up for Down Syndrome Awareness Walk and Festival, which will take place at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Renschler Field in East Hartford, CT, and put together her team of Samantha's Sunshine Gang to support the effort. All money raised will help support all individuals with Down Syndrome, which includes literacy education centers, first call programs, grants toward schools and organizations and more.
 
With SUNY New Paltz competing in its annual Hawks Invitational this weekend, the team hopes to not only raise awareness but also help Black reach her goal of more than $3,000 raised towards her team. Additionally, the Hawks will wear blue and yellow laces and will dedicate both matches Saturday to Black and her Sunshine Gang.
 
"To support Samantha, her strong and kind teammate, Margaret, and all people who have Down Syndrome, New Paltz Women's Volleyball has joined Samantha's Sunshine Gang this year," DiGiacomo said. "This team and anyone who donates, will be raising money to support Down Syndrome literacy education centers, workshops and training seminars for parents and educators, grants for the inclusion of people with Down Syndrome, and much more. We greatly appreciate any donations and thank everyone for their support."
 
If interested in joining Samantha's Sunshine Gang or to read more about Step Up for Down Syndrome, click here.
 
To donate directly toward the cause head to nphawks.com/samanthassunshinegang.

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