Activities

We follow the path to empowerment and independence for people with Down syndrome from childhood to adulthood, supporting families along the way.

A child performs a drawing exercise, with the support of one of the neuropsychomotor therapists beside him.

Consultancy services

Healthcare services

Social activities

PIC EO Art Laboratory

Who helps you

Pedagogue

Functions

PIC EO (acronym for: Passion Involement Creativity Emotions Originality) is the artistic laboratory of the Association.
The laboratory was established in 2006 to offer to people with Down’s syndrome an opportunity to enhance their independence, of creativity and of work-related skills, through the development of artistic and craft activities.

Today there is a group of young adults aged between 20 and 35 years old, who are not in employment and who are not receiving support through welfare or social welfare programmes. The activities which they carry out aim to develop and enhance their their specific expressive and creative abilities and their
transversal skills , to promote also their professional development.

Goals

• Involve the individual in the entire creative process, from design to production, ensuring they remain actively engaged throughout.

• Learn new techniques.

• Develop the ability to incorporate the various decorative elements in a way that is harmonious and balanced.

• Take greater responsibility for completing a specific task assigned, adhering to deadlines and rules of a technical/operational nature.

• Encourage the ability to work together with colleagues.

• Encourage behaviour and attitudes that are appropriate to the fact that one is in a workshop/shop.

How we work

The activities of the PIC EO Laboratory are designed to adapt to needs and to individual preferences of participants. Each session involves various forms of art, such as painting, sculpture, music, illustration and more still.

We work together with experts in the field of the arts to provide guidance and inspiration, ensuring that every experience is stimulating and meaningful.

A.I.M.I. infant massage

Who helps you

Therapist specialising in Neuro and Psycho Motor Skills

Functions

The infant massage programme of A.I.M.I. (Italian Association of Infant Massage) represents an experience of affectionate contact which strengthens significantly the bond between parents and children.

The massage is aimed at families with children aged age 0–12 months.

It is not a specific technique, but rather a way of communicating, which has positive impact on the development and growth of girls and of boys is widely supported by scientific research.

Goals

Infant massage is a tool that every parent can learn easily.

Through the massage, we help to support, protect and stimulate the growth and health of every child.

How we work

The course is divided into 5 sessions held weekly, each lasting for about an hour and a half, in small groups or one-to-one.

During the sessions, as well as learning the sequence of the massage, the parents discuss issues relating to the 0-12 months age group.

Opportunities for socialising for the families

Who helps you

Let’s help each other!

Functions

Throughout the year, we organise social gatherings for families, staff, volunteers, and supporters of the Association.

Goals

The main objective is to empower the families and the members involved and participating in the life of the association, promoting mutual understanding between the families and building a network of friendship and support for the benefit of everyone.

How we work

The main events aimed at families are three:

1 – Spring Festival: Usually held in early June, the “Festa di Primavera” was the first social event organised by Trisomia 21 aps; an opportunity to catch up before the summer holidays and enjoy a pleasant and fun day out. The event is aimed not only at families but also at staff, supporters and institutions. There are many activities on offer, including a stall selling handmade creations from our PIC EO art laboratory and a theatrical preview by the Teatrallegria group.

2 – National Day for people with Down’s syndrome: The National Day falls on the second Sunday in October. We usually organise activities to raise funds and raise awareness, aimed at raising awareness within the community on Trisomy 21. Here families can actively participate in the dissemination of the message promoting a more equitable and inclusive society.

3 – Open Day: The last event of the year, designed specifically to wish us all the best before the holidays. Just like the Spring Festival, the Open Day is designed to welcome families, volunteers, staff, supporters and institutions. The event is packed with activities and moments of socialising.

Cognitive enhancement for adults and activities aimed at preventing senile dementia

A woman who is cutting the vegetables. Photo taken during the activity for Cognitive Enhancement for adults and activities for the prevention of senile dementia.

Who helps you

Educator

Functions

At the headquarters of the Association, we are committed to offering activities aimed at cognitive enhancement also to adults with Down’s syndrome, through an approach derived from interventions initially designed for children.

Our activities, whether in groups or individually, aim to enhance cognitive skills and to promote the prevention of senile dementia.

Goals

We have set up a professional kitchen fully equipped, recognised as a psycho-social healthcare service by the Tuscany Region.

Our goals include:

Rehabilitation workshop: Aimed at those with greater difficulties, whether in terms of skills or in terms of emotional emotional and psychological distress. The manipulation of food and the management of a home environment in daily life act as a therapeutic lever, contributing to the improvement of psychological well-being and to reduction in the use of medicines such as anxiolytics or sleeping pills.

Social Rehabilitation workshop: Aimed at achieving the maximum independence possible.

Workshop for employment support: Focused on developing the skills needed for employment, integrated into individual occupational therapy programmes.

Workshop on rehabilitation for the prevention of senile dementia: This workshop, is designed for people over 35 years of age, represents a crucial preventive measure against premature ageing.

How we work

The activity takes place in a group setting, supported by two educators, once a week.

During the time set aside for the activity, the group prepares a full lunch: a starter, a main course and a dessert, paying particular attention to everyone’s dietary requirements.

The menu, agreed upon with the staff, is then served to the staff at the end of the day.

Work experience project

A young woman with Down syndrome, wearing a blue jacket, smiles as she begins her work placement.

Who helps you

Psychologist

Professional educator

Educator

Functions

The project is aimed at the girls and the boys in secondary schools of the second stage who, during their schooling, begin to undertake experiences as part of PCTO (Pathway on Transversal Skills and Guidance).

The Association works in partnership with the School and the Social Workers throughout the entire process.

Goals

Specifically there are three main goals:

  • to promote the development of a greater awareness of transition from the world of school to that of work which have rules and ways of functioning that are very different.
  • to gain experience in an active manner in a real work environment;
  • assess the skills acquired, both specific and cross-disciplinary, in order to help the person to carry out a better search for work and gain greater greater clarity in defining the professional profile.

How we work

The programme includes a variable number of meetings with the staff of the Work Group (psychologist and educator) based on the information already held by the Association and is divided into various stages:

1. The first stage involves a discussion on these topics:

  • a subjective reinterpretation of the school experience;
  • analysis of the differences between school and work;
  • review of experiences from PCTO that have taken place;
  • understanding of the various professional profiles and analysis of expectations.

2. The second stage involves the assessment of specific skills and transversal skills, as well as the professional competencies acquired.

3. The third stage involves a presentation to the young man or to the young woman of the various professional profiles, which emerge from the review of the meetings held together, and finally the drafting of the curriculum vitae.

TeatrAllegria

A woman wearing a red feather boa around her shoulders, performs her own part during the rehearsals for a show.

Who helps you

Director

Functions

The theatre is a powerful platform for expression and inclusion, offering a common ground on which people can express their own individuality and celebrate the successes achieved as protagonists of the performances.

Our current project, launched around 10 years ago, involves 15 people with Down’s syndrome, offering a meaningful experience of growth and collective expression.

Goals

The primary aim is to create a space in which boys and girls with Down’s syndrome can share moments together, express themselves and find fulfilment in the leading roles in theatrical performances.

Through the performing arts, we promote self-esteem and awareness of one’s own abilities.

How we work

Since 2017, our theatre project has embarked on a new direction under the guidance of Massimo Bonechi, a highly experienced professional director.

This collaboration has further enriched the workshop, providing an artistic and professional approach that has helped to develop the participants’ theatrical skills.

The director has opened up new horizons, making the performances not only a moment of personal expression but also an opportunity for artistic and personal growth.

The group of actors, as well as being performers, actively contribute to every stage of the production.

A project for life

Our commitment takes the form of a project for life dedicated to people with Down syndrome, accompanying them through every stage of their lives, from initial diagnosis to adulthood.

  • The photo shows three people: a little girl, a young woman and an adult woman, embracing each other.

We provide ongoing, personalised support, developed in close collaboration with families and local institutions.

We offer families informational and practical support, guiding them through the critical early stages. We support children in their integration into school, ensuring an inclusive and tailored education adapted to their specific needs.

  • A photo of two people, a father and son, smiling at an association event.

During adolescence, we focus on developing personal and social autonomy, preparing young people for an independent and fulfilling adult life.

The project for life we offer is highly personalised, recognising each person’s unique abilities and potential.

We work with specialists and healthcare providers to offer targeted support that promotes physical and mental wellbeing, thereby improving the quality of life for people with Down’s syndrome.

In Florence, we have created a support network that includes families, schools and professionals in the sector, organising events and activities that promote social inclusion and offer opportunities for continuous growth.

The core of our work is to build a life path that allows every person with Down syndrome to live fully and realise their potential. We are passionately committed to promoting an inclusive and high-quality life for all, valuing individual abilities and creating a supportive and nurturing environment.

Team

Our staff consists of professionals in the fields of psychology, speech therapy, neuropsychomotor therapy and behavioural education.

Management and coordination

Maura Cipriani

Maura Cipriani

Coordinator
Ivana Pili

Ivana Pili

Psychologist and Coordinator
Dr Gianni Antonio Galli

Dr Gianni Antonio Galli

Medical Director
Avv. Maria Ensabella

Avv. Maria Ensabella

Legal adviser and healthcare accreditation

Doctors

Dr.ssa Elisabetta Lapi

A geneticist, she works as a volunteer at Trisomia 21 aps.

Dr. Stefano Lassi

Adult neuropsychiatrist

Dr. Carlo Mugelli

A geriatrician at Careggi Hospital in Florence, he works as a volunteer at Trisomia 21 aps.

Rehabilitation team

Ivana Pili

Ivana Pili

Psychologist and Coordinator
Francesca Lucii

Francesca Lucii

Psychologist
Giulia Pecorini

Giulia Pecorini

Psychologist
Martina Ciani

Martina Ciani

Psychologist
Laura Bellandi

Laura Bellandi

Psychologist
Sebastiana Contini

Sebastiana Contini

Pedagogue
Ginevra Martelli Calvelli

Ginevra Martelli Calvelli

Child and Adolescent Neuro- and Psychomotor Therapist
Irene Cappellini

Irene Cappellini

Child and Adolescent Neuro- and Psychomotor Therapist
Ilaria Bianconi

Ilaria Bianconi

Speech therapist
Alessia Acciai

Alessia Acciai

Speech therapist
Margherita Rossi

Margherita Rossi

Speech therapist
Olivia Costantini

Olivia Costantini

Speech therapist
Valentina Grazzini

Valentina Grazzini

Educator
Clarissa Bruni

Clarissa Bruni

Educator
Francesco Francalanci

Francesco Francalanci

Educator
Andrea Luti

Andrea Luti

Professional Educator
Agnese Biagini

Agnese Biagini

Professional Educator

Offices

Beatrice Squarci

Beatrice Squarci

Head of the Administration Department
Stephanie Humml

Stephanie Humml

Secretariat
Francesca Bucelli

Francesca Bucelli

Web and Social Media Communication
Johan Soderkvist

Johan Soderkvist

IT and web systems consultant
Cora Liz Miranda Luna

Cora Liz Miranda Luna

Cleaning and sanitising

Art workshop

Dalila Scordamaglia

Dalila Scordamaglia

Pedagogue and Artistic Director

Theatre Company Teatrallegria

Massimo Bonechi

Massimo Bonechi

Director

Annual Report

Articles of Association

Privacy

Accountability for the 5×1000 scheme and public funding

5×1000 Funding

In accordance with the provisions set out in “Guidelines for reporting on the contribution of cinque per mille allocated to bodies in the third sector”, provision is made for the publication of the account and of the explanatory report on the contribution of 5 per mille.

Financial Year: 2023

Amount received: €29.172,64

Date of receipt: 27-12-2024

Rendiconto contributo 5×1000 2023 RND1243145983550329300.pdf

Fiscal Year: 2022

Amount received: €27.760,73

Date of receipt: 12-12-2023

Rendiconto contributo 5×1000 2022 RND1462122746996706300 (PDF)

Fiscal Year: 2021

Amount received: €24.627,81

Date of receipt: 16-12-2022

Rendiconto contributo 5×1000 2021 RND501117150613454720 (PDF)

Public funding received

In accordance with Article 1(125) of Law 124/2017, we hereby publish the list of public grants received during the year, broken down by calendar year.

We hereby notify, pursuant to Law 124/2017, Article 1, paragraph 125, the list of public grants received in the year 2024.

The total amount of grants was €90,918.64

View public funding received in 2024 (PDF in Italian)

In accordance with Article 1, paragraph 125 of Law 124/2017, we hereby publish the list of public grants received in 2023.

The total amount of grants received was €13,463.72

View public grants received in 2023 (PDF in Italiano)

In accordance with Article 1, paragraph 125 of Law 124/2017, we hereby publish the list of public grants received in 2022.

The total amount of grants received was € 41.101,00

View public grants received in 2022 (PDF in Italiano)

In accordance with Article 1, paragraph 125 of Law 124/2017, we hereby publish the list of public grants received in 2021.

The total amount of grants received was € 57.104,75

View public grants received in 2021 (PDF in Italian)

In accordance with Article 1, paragraph 125 of Law 124/2017, we hereby publish the list of public grants received in 2020.

The total amount of grants received was € 28.320,00

View public grants received in 2020 (PDF in Italian)

In accordance with Article 1, paragraph 125 of Law 124/2017, we hereby publish the list of public grants received in 2019.

The total amount of grants received was € 74.548,00

View public grants received in 2019 (PDF in Italian)

In accordance with Article 1, paragraph 125 of Law 124/2017, we hereby publish the list of public grants received in 2018.

The total amount of grants received was € 73.048,00

View public grants received in 2018 (PDF in Italiano)

Remuneration paid to directors, members of bodies of supervision, executives and partners

Grants paid

In order to ensure the transparency required by Article 14(2) of the Third Sector Code, we hereby disclose the remuneration paid each year to directors, members of the supervisory bodies, senior managers and members:

To ensure the transparency required by Article 14(2) of the Code of the Third sector. it is hereby announced that during course of 2024 the following remuneration was paid:

  • AUDIT BODY: €1,500.00 plus cash social security and VAT
  • TRUSTEES: no remuneration has been paid to them as Articles of Association the positions are unremunerated
  • MANAGEMENT: The Medical Director was paid €3,300.00, excluding VAT and pension contributions.
  • MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION: no remuneration was paid to them.