Foundation “Down Syndrome Albania”, Tirana

The foundation “Down syndrome Albania” has a three-year-old experience in fighting for the rights and needs of individuals with Down syndrome in Albania. The foundation is working in the advocacy field and it created the Center of Achievement and Development. In this center the foundation offers therapeutic services for 40 children, age 0-10 years old based on early intervention program. This program consists of systematic therapy in order to maximize the potential of children with Down syndrome. The Foundation has expanded its activity to 16 other cities in Albania besides Tirana, with the aim of informing and orienting parents and family members of individuals with Down syndrome over the needs and rights of their children.

Summary of the project

Objective 1: The preparation of three modules of autonomous courses and the creation of a resource base through the translation of books on social autonomy (Product I AIPD – Italian Association of people with Down syndrome)

Activity 1.1 / The modules will be developed over the first 6 months. Through the agreement, that DSA foundation has with EDSA European Down syndrome Association and AIPD, the training will be provided for two young people who later will become trainers in Albania.

Activity 1.2 / Adaption and translation of six books, author of whom is the Italian organization AIPD

– Coltelli e Fornelli (Knives and Stoves) – For cooking and behavior in the kitchen

– Fare spese senza sorprese (Make expenses without surprises) – Knowledge about money management

– Da soli in citta senza mamma e papa – Orientation in the city

– Valigia e biglietto, un viaggio perfetto – Organization of a trip and vacation

– Divertirsi in compagnia – Behavior and group interaction

– Amicizia, amore, sesso: Parliamone adesso – Sexual education and access to the other

These books will help as additional and auxiliary material for carrying out this course and illustrating the practical part of the course.

Objective 2: Training of dedicated staff, composed by 4 operators and 8-10 voluntaries

During the seventh month this staff will be trained to offer the service. The training will be guided by two youth trained from EDSA and AIPD.

Objective 3: Empowerment of parents 

Activity 3.1 / Informative and orientate meeting with parents of children with Down syndrome

Activity 3.2 / The production of an informative booklet about autonomy

Objective 4: Improving the personal skills and social autonomy of individuals with Down syndrome over 13 years old.

Activity 4.1: The rise of classes of autonomy (indoor and outdoor)

This activity will last 9 month.

Address: Rr. Xhon Kenedi, Selita 5, Tirane

Email: info@dsalbania.org  / e.zaimi@dsalbania.org

Phone Number: 00355 69 36 99 574