New Paltz, NY — The State University of New York at New Paltz women's volleyball team is back on the court raising money and attention to support Down Syndrome Awareness.
The team will be fundraising for the Connecticut Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk. Specifically, the team is dedicating their game to Samantha Black and her team comprised of family and friends, named "Samantha's Sunshine Gang."
"She and her family will be traveling to New Paltz for the game," said Hawks senior captain Cate DiGiacomo, who babysits for and has a close relationship with Samantha. "She is a bright and happy girl, and I am so glad New Paltz Volleyball gets to help support her team."
Samantha's fundraising page supports both local programs and services that help individuals with Down Syndrome, such as literacy tutoring and education centers, social activities for families, and First Call Programs for volunteers who help support both new parents and siblings of children with Down Syndrome. The Connecticut Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk and Block Party will be held on Sept. 30 at the New Britain Bees Stadium.
The Down Syndrome Awareness Game will begin at 4:45 p.m. Sept. 9 in the Hawk Center, where the Hawks will take on the Russell Sage Gators. Fans, family, and friends are encouraged to wear blue or yellow to the match against Mount Saint Mary College, which are the Down Syndrome colors. New Paltz Women's Volleyball will help raise money for her team, and during the Down Syndrome Awareness Game, there will be resources and opportunities for fans to donate as well. Samantha's fundraising goal is to collect $3,000 for the cause.
For more information on the Connecticut Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk, please visit https://www.ds-stride.org/stepupconnecticut
For more information on Samantha's Sunshine Gang, information on joining the team, and ways to donate, check out https://www.ds-stride.org/stepupconnecticut/profiles/team/543
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