32 representatives of 24 different DS-Associations from 20 European countries met in the premises of Down Spain last weekend (26-28 October) for their annual meeting.
It was nice to meet all these dedicated people who work so hard in their organizations to improve the situation of children, youngsters and adult with DS. Among the delegates were some who participate for the first time, as their organizations have just lately become an EDSA member. Therefor they had the opportunity to introduce their organization through a talk and a powerpoint presentation. This time there were presentations from Iceland, Poland, Hungary and from the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland.
It is always very interesting for all members to see and hear what others are doing and you get to know projects and activities which might be interesting for your own country as well.
Change in the board
As is the rule the presidents report and the financial reports were on the agenda. There was a change in the board: Lars Brustad from the Norwegian DS Network wishes to step back as Board member out of personal reasons. Karianne Abrahamsson also from Norway was nominated and elected by the AGA as his successor.
Further activities
Other important issues on the agenda were the further activities of EDSA, especially actions regarding the WDSD 2019 and the “Invite an expert”-project that has not very often been used during the past 5 years. It was discussed how this project, which really is helpful, can be better promoted.
EDSA needs a new strategic plan for the next few years. There was not enough time to talk this matter in the AGA, but ideas were collected. The next board meeting will address this subject.
The first part of the AGA-meeting was on Friday, the second part on Sunday.
The Saturday was dedicated to the seminar on Job Inclusion (separate article)
Traditionally, the annual meeting also includes a joint evening. Our host Down Spain organized a flamenco lesson for the delegates and afterwards a dinner, accompanied by flamenco dance and music.
The minutes of the AGA can be found in the restricted area for members.