For both workers and members, Jan. 25 was a day full of smiles as the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware opened its new office off Martins Farm Road in Milton.

The association, which was founded in 1979, cut the ribbon on the new location, which offers office, conference, meeting spaces and an outdoor playground. 

Executive Director Lauren Camp Gates said, “We had been wanting to be in Sussex County for many years. We came across this building in Milton and it really worked well for our needs.”

The association got the funds to purchase the building at 28607 Meadowview Drive through federal funds provided through the American Rescue Plan Act. The association serves people with Down syndrome across their lifespan, from newborns to adults. Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when a person has an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. While people with Down syndrome are generally able to live full and happy lives, the disorder affects intellectual development, among other symptoms.

Camp Gates said the new facility will help individuals with medical needs, housing, employment opportunities, summer camps and new parent outreach. She said the association serves 550 families throughout the state, with about half those in Sussex County. Programming is seasonal, with events like “Rock Your Socks” in March during World Down Syndrome Day, where 100,000 pairs of socks are distributed. In October, during World Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a golf tournament and annual walk are held. 

Camp Gates said the association tries to connect with families as soon as they are diagnosed so they have up-to-date information, and connects them with speech therapists and coordinates individualized education programs in schools. 

For more information about the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware, go to dsadelaware.org.