Hudson Valley group helps raise awareness of World Down ...

Today is World Down Syndrome Day, and Jason Gehlert, of The Down Syndrome Association of the Hudson Valley, joined News 12 to raise awareness.

The CDC says about 6,000 babies are born with Down syndrome each year.

Gehlert says Down syndrome is a genetic condition that sometimes affects muscles, speech, hearing, and sight.

The organization helps families by providing resources such as education, sports, and other recreational activities for people in the Down syndrome community. "We have a lot of events as well such as the annual buddy walk in October...Easter egg hunt...family picnic at the Renegade Stadium in the summer. We have a lot of events and support for our community."

Ways you can help raise awareness today is to wear the colors blue and yellow or wacky socks.