Support & empower 1900+ persons with Down syndrome

Dear Supporters,

This year, KDSP celebrated a decade of dedication and progress in our mission to create a more inclusive society. The inauguration of KDSP Islamabad Chapter marked a new milestone in our shared journey, fueled by your unwavering generosity. With 31 children now enrolled and commenced Early Childhood Intervention therapies, along with impactful events such as orientation sessions and informational support groups for families, and collaboration with four healthcare partners, we cultivated a strong sense of community and support in the capital region.

Here are the latest updates, showcasing our ongoing efforts in the community:

Family Support:
Our Family Network has expanded to 2168 families, with 106 new families supported through Family First Contact meetings. Thirteen emotional support groups were conducted for mothers, and monthly informational family support group sessions provided vital guidance to parents and caregivers. Over 100 check-in calls were made to ensure ongoing support for families in need. Sixty-three new parents and caregivers were facilitated through the Humrahi (Parent Peer Counsellors) program.

Early Childhood Intervention (ECI):
Currently, 224 children received Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) therapies, with over 470 therapy sessions scheduled weekly. Our team provided 100+ home plans and guidance calls for children on waitlists or living outside the city, ensuring continuous support. ECI's Physical Therapy team made informative videos guiding parents on child development and therapy exercises. Furthermore, the department transitioned to a fully digital documentation system, moving on from traditional paperwork.

Healthcare:
KDSP sponsored 56 cases, covering hospitalizations, equipment, and medicines. The team organized a successful World Hearing Day Health Camp in March in collaboration with Dr. Hina Hearing Institute, benefiting over 45 individuals. Eye camps with LRBT served over 70 people in January and February. Additionally, we renewed our MoU with Essa Labs, enhancing diagnostic services for KDSP families. During this quarter, our team sent 64 healthcare referrals and 199 test referrals (CBC, TSH, Eye test etc.) were made.

Education:
Thirty students benefited from the Early Preschool Experience Program (EPEP), 10 from the Program for Inclusion Education (PIE), 5 from the Inclusive School Project (ISP), and 20 from the Tailored Assistance Program (TAP). Our education programs had diverse activities, ranging from in-house celebrations, color-themed preschool activities, and after-school students' painting sessions to students participated in sports events at Elixir School and visited other local organizations. Our team empowered parents through math training and tools such as See and Learn app, fostering continuous learning at home. From pre-Eid celebrations to empowering sessions led by parents themselves, every initiative underscores our dedication to creating a supportive and enriching educational environment. KDSP won the Zero Project Award 2024, recognized for removing barriers for persons with disabilities in the fields of Inclusive Education and ICT. KDSP’s CEO and Head of Education represented at the Zero Conference held in Vienna.

Skills:
143 individuals are enrolled in our diverse skills programs, covering vocational, hobby building, and Education for Life initiatives. Our Lehr brand features handcrafted products made by our talented crafters with Down Syndrome, with 100% of proceeds supporting them. Lehr was showcased at various events this quarter, including the KDSP Golf Tournament, Kiva Square, Annual German Market, Pith, Karachi Commons, Emaar and IBA Fest. Our team conducted engaging sessions with Nixor College students, United Towels, and Salaam Takaful team along with our students to foster creativity and skill development. Education for Life students Azeem, Lamia and Zikra participated in Bazil Siddiqui Shaheed Taekwondo championship held at Muhammad Siddique Memon Scouts Sports Gymnasium. All of them won a position. Rangon ki Lehr: Vol II was launched at the VM Art Gallery showcasing artwork by artists with Down syndrome. Renowned artist Talha Kaar led a pouring workshop, with resulting artwork was showcased at our Annual Art Exhibition. 

Awareness:
Throughout the quarter, the awareness team conducted 12 sessions, reaching 241 individuals across corporates, educational institutes, and local organizations.The highlight of our calendar, the KDSP Annual Carnival in January, drew in an impressive crowd of over 6500 attendees. March brought with it a momentous occasion as KDSP commemorated its 10-year anniversary. On World Down Syndrome Day, KDSP had the honor of hosting esteemed organizations such as the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and other local organizations.

KDSP representatives made multiple TV appearances during Ramadan (holy month for Muslims) to raise awareness about the organization. Additionally, our commitment to promoting inclusion has been furthered through guest speaker sessions held at LUMS University, Aster School, and Kiva on enhancing inclusion. Our Preschool teacher, Zahra, also represented KDSP at a panel discussion at Bahria University, spreading the message of inclusion far and wide. Moreover, Farah, a young star with Down syndrome, is a distinguished Special Olympics swimming champion and has been honored by HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) Hamaray Heroes (Our Heroes).

Together, we are making strides toward a more inclusive and supportive society. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey.

Love,
Team KDSP

Links:

• KDSP at Zero Conference 2024