Giuseppe “Joe” Caira leverages over two decades of contracting and construction experience as the owner of GC General Contractors and Custom Home Builders, LLC. Outside of his professional work, Giuseppe Caira supports food banks in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and is also active in a Down syndrome awareness group. Down syndrome, which affects approximately one out of every 700 individuals, is a genetic condition that develops when an extra chromosome is present. This extra chromosome affects development and leads to physical symptoms that include low muscle tone, a short stature, and irregularities in the person's facial features. Moreover, the condition can cause intellectual disabilities, heart defects, and other serious medical conditions.There are three forms of down syndrome. The first and most common, trisomy 21, results when an extra chromosome fails to separate from an embryo, leading to its replication in every cell of the body. Alternatively, Mosaicism occurs when some cells include a normal set of chromosomes and some include the extra one. Mosaicism is the least common form, and may result in fewer manifestations than the other types. Finally, translocation occurs when the extra chromosome attaches to another chromosome in the body’s cells.With the advances of modern medicine, people affected by Down syndrome are living longer than ever before. They are also increasingly being integrated into society, such as in school and work environments, in ways that were previously not possible. Down syndrome awareness groups help to pave the way for this deeper involvement by increasing the public's knowledge and acceptance of those with the condition.
New Jersey business leader Giuseppe “Joe” Caira has more than 20 years of experience in the field of construction. He is the founder and owner of GC General Contractors and Custom Home Builders, LLC, a renovation company that transforms spaces for both residential and business clients. In addition, Giuseppe Caira is active in the nonprofit sector, supporting groups dedicated to raising Down syndrome awareness. Down syndrome is a genetic condition that currently affects over 400,000 Americans and occurs in approximately 6,000 newborns per year. Characteristics of Down syndrome include mild to moderate cognitive delays and a heightened risk of certain medical conditions, including hypothyroidism, gastroesophageal reflux, and heart defects. Despite these facts, individuals with Down syndrome can lead happy, fulfilling lives when provided with adequate support and acceptance from their broader communities. Convincing others to care about this cause may seem like a daunting task, but you can begin by simply sharing your personal experiences with Down syndrome. Whether you are a parent or sibling to a person with Down syndrome or simply count individuals with this condition among your friends, providing a unique view into their joys, hardships, and day-to-day experiences is likely to help others develop a more accurate understanding of the condition and shed harmful misconceptions. Social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness. You might consider using your social media page to share facts, research findings, or positive and illuminating stories about individuals with Down syndrome. If you are in a position to do so, you might also consider inviting your friends or followers to ask you questions about Down syndrome.Additionally, one of the best ways to raise awareness is to volunteer at advocacy organizations that promote educational initiatives, medical research, legislative changes, and outreach efforts benefiting the Down syndrome community. Some of the most influential organizations dedicated to this advocacy and support are the National Down Syndrome Congress, the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, and the National Down Syndrome Society.
