Small steps, big changes: How Submarine supports independence

Submarine is launching its annual charity campaign for the seventh year in a row. As part of the initiative, we created original socks, and all proceeds from their sale will be donated to the Croatian Down Syndrome Association.

World Down Syndrome Day is marked on March 21, when the campaign officially begins. Support is symbolically shown by wearing mismatched socks, reminding us of the importance of accepting differences and providing stronger support for people with Down syndrome.

This year’s donation supports the project “I Learn and Practice with Friends,” which helps young people with Down syndrome become more independent. As Dinka Vuković, President of the Croatian Down Syndrome Association, said: “This is not just a project, but a step toward a more independent life.”

The program creates a safe environment where participants build independence through group activities, weekends away from home, and practical workshops. They learn everyday skills such as cooking, managing money, understanding emotions, using technology, and building confidence.

“Social responsibility has always been part of who we are,” said Luka Jureško from Submarine. “We believe in real change and want to help create opportunities for young people with Down syndrome to grow, gain confidence, and become more independent.”

The socks are available at Submarine restaurants in Zagreb, Rijeka, Split, Zadar, and Osijek. Following recent openings in Pula and Varaždin, and with a new location in Rovinj coming soon, Submarine will soon have a total of 22 restaurants across Croatia.