The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines and SM Cares organized the 17th Happy Walk for Down Syndrome in celebration of the National Syndrome Consciousness Month. An estimated 6000 attendees compromised of families, schools, supporter, advocates, and SM employees attended the biggest event that share the beautiful and triumphant life stories of people with Down Syndrome and their families which took place at the SMX Convention Center, Manila last February 24, 2019.
Happy Walk was an annual activity to promote acceptance,. awareness and inclusivity of persons with Down Syndrome into society. The event also featured performances from children affected with the condition, celebrity performances, and fun interactive booths. There was also a parade around SM Mall of Asia complex followed after the program allowing children with Down Syndrome, together with their families, to interact with the shoppers and tenants of SM Mall.
The event was graced by Mr. Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Holdings together with US Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Sung Kim and Ambassador designate for the Royal Thai Embassy , H.E. Vasin Ruangprateepsaeng, who have both ling supported the advocacies of SM and DSAPI.
" Having a child with Down Syndrome has been one of the most remarkable experiences for me, as well as for countless parents and families. Some experiences can be so powerful that they have long-lasting and life-changing imoacrs on our lives " DSAPI Chairman Mr.Elmer F. Lape a shares.
Simultaneously, SM City Bacolod also joined the celebration and had their walks as well.
" At SM, we recognize the ever-changing needs of the members of the community where we are present and the more we celebrate our relationship with groups like DSAPI, the more that we understand what needs to be developed in making a welcoming mall, jncluo persons with disability. " Said Bien Mateo, SVP of SN Supermalls and Director for SM Cares Program on PWDs.
"The Happy Walk is certainly one of the biggest events that continues to make beautiful stories for families to enjoy, to have fun, to be with one another, to treasure." DSAPI Chairman Mr.Elmer F. Lapeña adds.
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Mommy bloggers with SM Elevator Girl (L-R) Mommy dhess of thekitchenmom, Lhyz of lhyziebongon, Cheridel Alejandrino, Jaime Felix of themermaidinstilettos, Eihdra Gatchalian of OneProudMomma |
As a responsible integrated property developer, SM ensures that it's CSR programs serve as a catalyst for a positive change in the communities that it supports. To know more about SM Cares visit www.smcares.com.ph
About DSAPI
The Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc ( DSAPI ) is a non-stick, non-profit organization, founded in 1991 by a group of dedicated and committed parents and concerned physicians. It aims
to offer support to families who have a child with Down Syndrome and to initiate , develop, promote, encourage and support programs and projects concerning Down Syndrome.
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Comments
magandang advocacy ito.. dami nakilahok