Who are you trying to help? What issue are you trying to address?

Down Syndrome International (DSi) is a federation of international organisations and individuals committed to ensuring the quality of life and human rights for all people with Down syndrome. A powerful vehicle to help enable improved knowledge of the condition and sharing of information and resources,this is the World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC).

WDSC is an international conference held in a different country every 3 years and involves a stimulating programme of presentations and workshops from delegates from all over the world. It acts as a forum for the global Down syndrome community to share knowledge and best practice and provides a unique platform for individuals with Down syndrome from different countries and cultures to represent themselves and express their views. WDSC, next held in South Africa in August 2012, is an inspirational and educative event for all who attend and we encourage the residents of the host country to be involved as much as possible. Unfortunately the registration fee is too high for many to afford and we have received a large number of requests from parents of children with Down syndrome for it to be reduced. This is only possible with external financial support.

Between 650 and 700 parents attended the last WDSC, approximately 400 of which were locals. Therefore we have estimated that we require a further R1,598,000.00 ($222,275.12) of donations to allow all the expected South African parents to attend for free. We are requesting R39,950.00 ($5,544.12) from funders so that 10 parents of children with Down syndrome, who could otherwise not afford it, are able to attend.

We also welcome much needed cause related marketing from professional partners to raise awareness about the WDSC and encourage participation globally.