Who we are
Workday for Down is a foundation working to improve conditions for individuals with Down syndrome, primarily in Norway. While complementing other organisations with similar goals, we aim to function as a grant-making foundation with minimal administrative overhead. All donations are directed towards projects and organisations that support people with Down syndrome and foster greater inclusion and visibility.
The initiative was founded by Ingrid Bjørnov in 2015. What began as a handwritten note shared on social media, pledging to donate one day’s earnings to the cause, grew into a joyful, grassroots campaign tied to World Down Syndrome Day on March 21. The long-term goal was to raise one million NOK to create a digital knowledge hub in collaboration with Downs Norge / The Norwegian Network for Down Syndrome.
In 2018, the one-million goal was reached, and the digital knowledge portal “Oppsiden” was officially launched on October 26 in Oslo. The opening ceremony was led by then-Prime Minister Erna Solberg. It was a major milestone, made possible by the dedication of countless people across the country. Supporters donated their “workday” in all kinds of creative ways: knitting, painting, recycling, singing, baking, cooking, dancing, writing, photographing, polishing, cleaning, walking, jumping, and building, for Down. Some even helped by grading papers or simply taking the day off, dedicating that time to the cause. A huge thank-you to all of you.
Today, Workday for Down continues to raise and distribute funds to projects that benefit individuals with Down syndrome. Some of the projects we’ve supported include:
2020
- Stjerneakrobat – gymnastics group in Fredrikstad
- Senior-Treffen / Nitor – activity group
- Himmeljegerne – nature group
2021
- Sjiraffen Kultursenter – cultural centre in Trondheim
- Asker Produkt – anniversary concert
- Ingvilds in Sandnessjøen
2022
- Alle Tiders Band (ATB) – musical group in Vadsø
- SingAlong – a community choir in Grefsen, Oslo
- Pascal Festivalen – culture festival in Gjøvik
You can follow our activities on the campaign’s Facebook page.
Want to contribute outside of the official campaign day (March 21)?
You’re more than welcome!
Bank account: 1720.28.80436
VIPPS: 584332