I support organizations that are for the welfare of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs). Although I am not that active physically, still I see to it that I can contribute in any way I can to raise the awareness of every people who are reading my posts.
Speaking of PWDs, SM Cares Program again spearheaded the 21st ‘Happy Walk for Down Syndrome Awareness’ last February 24, 2013 at SM North EDSA, which started around 8am. This event is in congruence with the Down Syndrome Consciousness Month. Aside from SM, the activity was also supported by various PWD organizations. Families and supporters of Persons With Disabilities were also present during the said event, which aimed to raise awareness on the needs and right of PWDs specifically those who have Down Syndrome.
The ‘Happy Walk for Down Syndrome Awareness’ activity started with a Mass at the Block, then the “walk” started around the mall, and ended up at the Sky Dome for the program proper. Entertainments were prepared for PWDs and speeches from the heads of various organizations that support this endeavor, including SM Cares Program on Disability Affairs and Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, were also given.
Actually, this Happy Walk activity is celebrated every February of the year. This time, the participating PWDs and their families enjoyed the free treats of cotton candies, unlimited popcorn and face painting. In addition, a photo contest and fun games were also launched to make the participants truly enjoy the celebration. These activities aim to make everyone realize that PWDs, especially those with Down Syndrome, have place in our society and they, too, need to interact with the public, achieve self-reliance and continue to live decent lives.
(l-r) VP Bien Mateo, Program Director for SM Cares for PWDs; Hans T. Sy, Pres of SM Prime Holdings, Elmer Lapena, DSAPI President; Henry Ocier of Tagaytay Highlands, and Tony Pascia , DSAPI Chairman.
The SM Cares Program on Disability Affairs headed the 21st ‘Happy Walk for Down Syndrome Awareness because it believes that PWDs deserve equal opportunities as experienced and enjoyed by “normal” people. Moreover, this Program envisions to provide a safe and accessible environment for PWDs especially those with Down Syndrome, as well as, provide venues for their activities and projects to show that SM truly Cares and that to let other people understand the condition to initiate understanding among PWDs and the general population.
To know more about the SM Cares Program, visit www.facebook.com/smcsrprogram
5 Comments
It’s nice to know that SM really cares
A lot of people make fun of persons with Down syndrome simply because they do not know anything about this genetic disorder. It’s good that there are organizations out there who make it their advocacy to create awareness to better understand individuals with Down syndrome.
This is a good way to raise awareness on what DS is all about.. I hope more and more company would start activities like this one 🙂
Good thing that the SM Cares Program launched this project. It’s about time that more special opportunities and privileges are given to PWDs.
It’s so nice of SM to have this activity.This is a good way to raise awareness about down syndrome.