Timely boost for Field of Dreams
Down Syndrome Cork were recipients this week of a significant cheque, following a fundraiser at a local clinic, held during Chiropractic Opportunity Week.
Each year, Kilworth Chiropractic Clinic holds a fundraiser, in which any new patients see their fee donated to the chosen charity. Dr Ed Bates, of Kilworth Chiropractic Clinic said that this year, a sum of €775 was raised for Field of Dreams.
“With this particular charity, it’s close to home because my sister-in-law has Down Syndrome, so that was the main reason and I know accessing facilities for that can be hard,” Dr Bates said.
Debbie Kelleher of Field of Dreams – Down Syndrome Cork explained that with over 66 adults now participating in over six different courses, the funding presented on Monday will likely be put towards equipment.
“We’re always in need of equipment really for adults with Down syndrome. We have 66 adults with over six different courses, so there are a lot of materials for different items needed. In horticulture, there are kneeling pads and gloves for the students. In cookery, we’re always inundated with the need for items for the cookery class. We want to get some new equipment, soup blenders,” Ms Kelleher said.
Down Syndrome Cork now sees around thirty of their former students employed throughout Cork in part-time paid work through their employment support specialist.
“It’s all for the students. They’re upskilling and we’re just trying to get them through their courses, get them certified and then hopefully, with the Ready to Work programme, it would be helping them to get into the workforce as well. That would be a key goal for some of them,” Ms Kelleher added.
Down Syndrome Cork is a branch of the national charity, Down Syndrome Ireland and is dedicated to improving the quality of life of all members and their families. The organisation is a volunteer parent-led one that aims to support people with Down Syndrome and their families. Services offered by Down Syndrome Cork include education, therapies, employment preparation, social clubs, dance, fitness and sports.