Five diverse women hold up a large red heart against a solid teal background.

Help the Durham Down Syndrome Association represent Canada—and bring new ideas for inclusion home to Durham Region. Dear family, friends, and supporters, I’m Michelle Francis-Smith, President of the Durham Down Syndrome Association (DDSA). My husband, Duane, our daughter, Desiree, who has Down syndrome, and I have been selected to join the Ontario delegation representing Canada at the World Down Syndrome Congress in September 2027. We are honoured to represent our family, the DS community, and our country. The Congress brings together self-advocates, families, and leaders from around the world to exchange ideas, celebrate inclusion, and advance Down syndrome advocacy. For our family, this opportunity means learning from leading experts, connecting with people from different countries, and bringing knowledge and experiences back to the DDSA. Earlier this year, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recognized our delegation and thanked us for contributing to a stronger, more inclusive country. In his message, he said: “Thank you for your support in making Canada a stronger, more inclusive Canada. All of Canada will be standing with you.” That encouragement reminds us of the responsibility we carry: to be a voice for inclusion and demonstrate Canada’s commitment to ensuring people with Down syndrome are valued, respected, and empowered. Your support can help make this journey possible. Attendance costs approximately $8,000 per person for each of the three of us. This includes:<ul><li>Conference registration</li><li>Airfare and transportation</li><li>Hotel accommodation and meals</li><li>Travel and medical insurance</li></ul> Donations of any amount will help us meet these expenses. You can donate directly to the DDSA, who will collect contributions on our family’s behalf for this purpose.  Sponsoring a delegate is an investment that reaches beyond one person’s attendance. Delegates bring home new knowledge, innovative approaches, and global connections to strengthen local advocacy, improve support and services, and create more opportunities for people with Down syndrome to thrive. Your gift supports that exchange and expresses a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging—helping build communities that recognize people’s abilities and empower them to reach their full potential. Please donate to support our participation in the World Down Syndrome Congress. Thank you for considering our request and for offering encouragement, generosity, and belief in a world where everyone belongs. Your support can help create opportunities and positive change in our community beyond the Congress.

Durham Down Syndrome Association

Help the Durham Down Syndrome Association represent Canada At The World Down Syndrome Congress 2027

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