Down Syndrome Ireland “Laois Branch” celebrated World Down Syndrome Day recently.
On Sunday March 21, all of their members wore lots of ‘Rock Your Socks’ for the day.
They also took part in the DSI virtual “Purple Run”, celebrating all things Down Syndrome, which is usually run in the Phoenix Park, and many other events throughout the day.
The Laois Branch of DSI also launched their latest fundraisers in an effort to make their field of dreams a reality.
The ‘€4 Text to Donate number 50300 with the word ‘Dreams’ Fundraiser’ is in support of the DSI “Laois Branch” Employment Training Centre of Excellence project in Abbeyleix.
Chairperson Michael Gorman said: “To this end, we are publishing one member’s profile each month going forward, to let the public know exactly who they will be supporting, and how they will make a difference to the lives of our members going forward.
“The DSI Laois Branch “Field of Dreams” project will incorporate a coffee shop, charity shop, horticulture base, office spaces, therapy and training rooms, walkway, running track and more.
“This will equip our members with the different array of skills and abilities required to hold down jobs in meaningful paid employment, leading to independence, both personal and financial, and hopefully Independent Living in a project that will run alongside, and adjacent to the Laois “Field of Dreams” project.
“Our branch has acquired a 4-acre site from Laois County Council to establish this project which will make such a huge difference to the lived lives of people with intellectual and physical difficulties in the county.
“It will also alleviate the huge pressure on the Day Services in the county in terms of overcrowding etc.
“We are asking the public to support this endeavour by donating €4 to our Text to Donate fundraiser going forward, or alternatively donate to our GoFundMe page.
“We currently supply heavily reduced Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Physiotherapy and Chiropody to name a few.
“This Employment Training Centre of Excellence project will, with the help and support of the public in Laois and surrounds, help us to complete the life cycle support for people with Down Syndrome in delivering financial and social independence, Independent Living and meaningful social integration into the fabric of our communities here in Laois.”
The Laois Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland has been in existence since March 1995 and continues to be the Primary Source of support for people with Down Syndrome and their families in the county.
SEE ALSO – Eugene Fennelly – How an Abbeyleix man played a record 200 holes of golf in one day
