Down Syndrome Ireland ‘Laois Branch’ gratefully accepted a cheque from the Heritage Gala Ball as their search for suitable land for a centre in Laois continues.
“Down Syndrome Ireland ‘Laois Branch’ wishes to thank most sincerely all those who organised and supported this fantastic fundraiser in any way,” said their PRO Michael Gorman.
“Our thanks especially to the organisers and Gerald Kean who has offered €10,000.00 if we can get 3 to 4 acres of land for our own ‘Field of Dreams’ here in Laois,” he said.
He said the generous offer from the celebrity solicitor has given them the hope of providing a centre for training for their members.
“This offer has allowed our Down Syndrome Ireland ‘Laois Branch’ families to dream of the possibilities for our adults in achieving meaningful work for a living wage and becoming equal participants in society here in County Laois,” he said.
Courses and training would allow them to live much more fulfilling lives and gain greater independence.
“This would allow them to be fully functioning members of our community when given the right supports to enable them to show what they can do, as opposed to what they can’t.
“We are all hoping that we can achieve this dream for our members, who happen to have varying degrees of intellectual difficulty but their abilities far outweigh these difficulties,” Mr Gorman told LaoisToday.ie recently.
Land
If they can secure land, then it is hoped a centre can be developed to include a canteen and coffee shop, where young adults with Down Syndrome can learn basic skills for employment. It is also planned to incorporate a horticulture aspect to it also.
The local branch also recently celebrated international World Down Syndrome Day with a day out in Eats & Treats in Portlaoise.
The branch fundraises on a regular basis to supplement the very limit block of therapies available to its members.
SEE ALSO – Down Syndrome Ireland ‘Laois Branch’ still seeking land
