Ruby's Rainbow Shines on World Down Syndrome Day

Nonprofit founded by Ruby Plachta provides college scholarships for students with Down syndrome

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:20am

Ruby's Rainbow, a nonprofit founded by Ruby Plachta and her mother Liz, is putting the spotlight on World Down Syndrome Day by raising awareness and providing college scholarships for students with Down syndrome. The organization has awarded over 1,000 scholarships worth $3.7 million, and is currently working to raise $600,000 for the 321 Pledge to help even more students further their education.

Why it matters

Ruby's Rainbow is making a significant impact by supporting the educational aspirations of individuals with Down syndrome, helping to break down barriers and promote inclusion. The organization's work aligns with the goals of World Down Syndrome Day, which aims to raise awareness and celebrate the lives and achievements of people with Down syndrome.

The details

Ruby Plachta, the face of Ruby's Rainbow, is described as joyful and positive, with an infectious laugh. The nonprofit was started by Ruby and her mother Liz, with the goal of providing college scholarships for students with Down syndrome attending post-secondary programs. Over the past two weeks, they have been working to raise $600,000 for the 321 Pledge, which will help fund more scholarships.

  • Ruby's Rainbow has awarded over 1,015 scholarships worth around $3.7 million since its inception.
  • The organization is currently working to raise $600,000 for the 321 Pledge over the last two weeks.

The players

Ruby Plachta

The face of Ruby's Rainbow, known for her joy, positivity, and infectious laugh.

Liz Plachta

The co-founder of Ruby's Rainbow, who started the nonprofit with her daughter Ruby.

Ruby's Rainbow

A nonprofit organization that provides college scholarships for students with Down syndrome attending post-secondary programs.

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What they’re saying

“It is fun. I love to make smiles on people's faces...My favorite part is to give out scholarships.”

— Ruby Plachta

What’s next

Ruby's Rainbow and the Plachta family will continue their efforts to raise funds for the 321 Pledge, which will allow the organization to provide more college scholarships for students with Down syndrome.

The takeaway

Ruby's Rainbow is making a meaningful impact by supporting the educational aspirations of individuals with Down syndrome, helping to break down barriers and promote inclusion. The organization's work aligns with the goals of World Down Syndrome Day, celebrating the lives and achievements of people with Down syndrome.