The Dominica Association of Persons living with Disabilities (DAPD) has described its achievements in 2014 as a “satisfactory and productive” and attributes this success to the support it received from many sources.
According to a release, the DAPD was able to organize and implement all events and projects planned for last year, hence the reason for rating the year a successful one.
“This was possible based on the support it obtained from many sources, including the Government of Dominica, the Government of Japan, The United States Embassy in Barbados, Social Partners, and people of Dominica on a whole,” the release stated. “More of this will be outlined in our 2014 Narrative and Audited Financial Reports to be presented at our 31st Annual General Meeting. However, it is incumbent on us to highlight in this message, the areas where these benefactors’ contributions made a world of difference.”
Work on the third and final phase of the association’s Multi-purpose Development Centre comprising a Dormitory and Auditorium is underway.
“Funds for the construction of the dormitory came fr om the Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects, (GGP) while Funds for the Auditorium have already been approved by the Basic Needs Trust Fund/Caribbean Development Bank,” the released explained.
The Government of Dominica was also among the major contributors, “providing support for three of the association’s hard-working employees through the National Employment Programme (NEP). They also answered to our request for an increase in the Annual Subvention,” The DAPD stated in its release.
For the first time, the association obtained support from the United States Government, when, through the Public Affairs Section of the United States Embassy in Barbados, funds were provided for a Training and Mobility Aids project which targeted persons with impaired vision.
The release continued, “Support for conducting of educational and social activities came from Corporate Citizens and many local private donors and progress was also made towards the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
Discussions took place with the Ministry concerned and the Consultant appointed to move the process forward. Together, proposals were developed for a Communication Strategy, Plan of Action and Terms of Reference for the National Disability Council, while further work on this is expected to heighten this year.
The release noted that 2014 was also the final year of the association’s 2010-2014 Strategic and Sustainable Development Programme.
“The goal for this five year plan was: To continue building on the Association’s capacity to become self-sustaining, and strengthen efforts for the disability community to participate more effectively in their island’s development,” the release said.
The release added, “ It is with a sense of pride that we publicly state that significant and important goals were achieved during that period, as we sought to improve the status of persons with disabilities in Dominica. Our accomplishments and success we attribute to a multiple of factors: The Association’s level of maturity, its ability to provide effective representation, its reputation as a credible and accountable organization and its strong advocacy programmes.”
As the association prepares to implement its 2015/2019 programme, it says that increased attention will be paid to the Economic, Social and Personal Development of its constituents.
“Ultimately, we aim to achieve an “all inclusive society” and enhance the dignity and status of persons with disabilities, through legislation, policies and administrative measures to be initiated by the State,” the released stated.
The release concludes, “The association expresses heartfelt thanks and profound appreciation to all its valued benefactors, who so generously shared their “treasures” with us as we optimistically look ahead to another phase in our development.”
It is fantastic to hear an association, a business or an individual saying they are very pleased with their achievement and the support received. It encourages you to give because it is appreciated. Continued success in 2015.
Yes but 90 per cent of buildings and public facilities in Roseau do not provide access for wheel chairs…
Where are the bloggers. No comments on this one. Only negative they like to comment on. Great! Fantastic! Haters start to contribute to the Association. Too much speaking; action is what is required.