Scrap Heap Adventure Ride Grants: Supporting the Down Syndrome Community Through Creativity and Connection
September 4, 2024
Down Syndrome Australia are thrilled to share the exciting projects that have been funded through the Scrapheap Adventure Ride Grants. Over the past 14 years, the Scrapheap Adventure Ride has raised over $1,030,000 for the Down syndrome community. This money is set aside to support projects that directly support people with Down syndrome in regional, rural and remote locations.
This year’s winning projects are designed to make a significant impact on the lives of people with Down syndrome, their families, and their communities.
Here’s a closer look at the four projects that received funding and how they are making a difference.
Down Syndrome WA – Regional Stakeholder Engagement and Community Networking
Down Syndrome WA (DSWA) is focusing on building stronger connections within regional communities across Western Australia. With a grant of $19,290, DSWA is expanding its efforts to engage with the local community and stakeholders in the Peel region, connect with local governments and stakeholders across regional, rural and remote areas of WA, and run an online morning tea for regional, rural and remote communities.
This initiative will increase community connections in regional, rural and remote communities of WA. This initiative will not only increase social interaction among families but also raise awareness about Down syndrome and the importance of inclusive community planning.
Down Syndrome Victoria – Community Building Workshop
Down Syndrome Victoria (DSV) is dedicated to empowering the leaders of their Regional Family Network (RFN) groups through a comprehensive Community Building Workshop. With $20,000 in funding, DSV will deliver a two-day workshop in regional Victoria, aimed at enhancing the skills of RFN leaders.
The workshop will cover effective community-building strategies, leveraging community resources, and fostering partnerships. This project is particularly significant for regional and rural Victoria, where access to disability support services is often limited. The training will ensure that RFN leaders can better support their communities, leading to a stronger sense of belonging and empowerment for families across the state.
Down Syndrome Queensland – Key Word Sign for Schools Workshops
Down Syndrome Queensland (DSQ) is addressing a critical need in schools: effective communication for students with Down syndrome. With a $15,000 grant, DSQ will deliver Key Word Sign (KWS) workshops in four regional and remote areas of Queensland.
These workshops will train school staff, supports and family members in using KWS, a communication method that supports students with Down syndrome by enhancing their ability to understand and participate in classroom activities. By equipping educators and families with these skills, DSQ aims to improve the educational experience and outcomes for students with Down syndrome in regional, rural and remote areas, ensuring they are better supported in their learning environments
Celebrate T21 and The Illawarra Music Foundry – Changing The World… One Chromosome At A Time
The “Changing The World… One Chromosome At A Time” project, led by Celebrate T21 and The Illawarra Music Foundry, received $33,700 to bring creative arts activities to rural and regional New South Wales. This project includes a variety of workshops and events designed to empower people with Down syndrome and foster connections within their communities.
Key activities include the Mini T21 Rockers music program, Sip & Create art workshops, the Superstar Experience, and the Celebrate T21 Photographic Exhibition. These events are all about celebrating the talents and creativity of people with Down syndrome while educating the broader community. The project will also provide valuable resources and support to doctors, teachers, and families, helping to create more inclusive environments.
Want to support Scrapheap for this year?
These four projects, supported by the Scrapheap Adventure Ride Grants, will provide direct support to regional, rural and remote communities – making a real difference in the lives of people with Down syndrome. From building stronger networks in regional areas to enhancing communication in schools, each initiative is tailored to meet the unique needs of the Down syndrome community.
Thank you to everyone who has participated and supported Scrapheap Adventure Ride. The next Scrapheap Adventure Ride is taking place again this year in early October and is hoping to raise $100,000 to ensure more projects like this are possible.
Make sure to support Scrapheap 2024 – you can visit the website for more information: