Susan Heron
Down Syndrome Victoria is the statewide peak membership organisation established in 1978 to represent individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Down Syndrome Victoria’s mission is to empower individuals with Down syndrome to achieve a lifetime of meaningful inclusion in the community. It does this by providing support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families based on a model of empowerment; being a pre-eminent source of quality information and resources; sharing knowledge and experience to build the capacity of families and professionals to support individuals with Down syndrome and ensure they meet their full potential; and via systemic advocacy.
Down Syndrome Victoria provides a whole-of-life service offering personal support for parents, especially when a new baby is born; peer support groups around the state; an education support service to assist students with Down syndrome and their teachers in mainstream schools; Club21 – a peer support and social group for adults with Down syndrome; an annual Family Fun Day and other events; information and training workshops for families; professional development for health and education professionals; a regular journal ‘Voice’ and other publications; and a library of Down syndrome specific resources.
Supported by the Rotary Club of Carlton
Step UP! for Down syndrome Step Up for Down syndrome is an international walk-a-thon style event aimed at raising funds for and awareness of Down syndrome via participation, sponsorship, media advertising, partnering and publicity.
There are over 260 walks held annually around the world supporting Down syndrome. In Australia in 2013, 15 cities will take part in the walk in October to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
Step Up for Down syndrome is Down Syndrome Victoria’s major annual fundraising event. Over 1,000 participants will take part in walks held in Melbourne, Geelong and Horsham to raise much needed funds for Down Syndrome Victoria to continue its vital work.