GlaxoSmithKline and Down2Earth Explore Madame Tussauds
For the second time this year, GlaxoSmithKline joined with the DSA's Down2Earth group as part of their Orange Day programme.
A total of 31 staff, all based at GSK House in Brentford, joined Down2Earth, a local social group for people with Down's syndrome. All the volunteers were paired up with a member from the Down2Earth allowing each member of the group to explore the delights of Madame Tussauds at their own pace.
GSK's "Orange Day" encourages employees to make a difference in the community where they live and work by giving their time and energy to help support a local charitable activity. As part of the Orange Day scheme each GlaxoSmithKline employee is given one volunteering day per year.
Our Down2Earth group meet every month at the national offices in Teddington. The group of young adults with Down's syndrome meet to have fun, make friends and talk about issues that are important to them. The group has a wide mixture of personalities and a range of abilities. Ideas for future plans are discussed and strongly debated.
In addition to getting to be up close and personal with some leading stars including President Obama, Brad and Angelina, Shriek, Lewis Hamilton and Michael Jackson Down2Earth members worked on their writing skills that will appear in the next Down2Earth magazine focusing on their favourite wax figure.
Patricia James of the DSA said "The trip to Madame Tussauds provided an opportunity for GSK volunteers and Down2Earth members to get to know each other, share an experience and make some new friends. At the end of the day, it is not about the activity, but what the activity has accomplished - a greater understanding and awareness about Down's syndrome. The DSA is delighted to have participated in another Orange Day with GSK."
All the Down2Earth members and GSK volunteers fully enjoyed the day. In their own words, some GSK volunteers reflected on the day:
"I learned that people with Down's syndrome are capable of doing a lot more than I expected. I had a great day with a lot of fun and laughter." -Helen Field, Project Manager
"I am so glad I took time out today. I hope very much that I have been able to contribute as much as I have gained. A truly humbling expereince, I would gladly do it again." -Gareth Jones, Senior Project Manager
"I have to say that I honestly did not expect to have so much fun today. My preconceptions about "Down's syndrome" meant that I was expecting the day to be far more stressful, and I confess: I was initially nervous - How wrong I was. I feel privileged to have had this experience and have met some truly inspirational individuals - many thanks" -Deborah Moth
GSK and the DSA have worked together for the last five years at a national level but the Orange Day volunteer scheme allows staff to nominate a local project for a more hands-on experience.