OREANDA-NEWS. June 02, 2011. During the first month after launching the Silver Coin charitable project initiated by UkrSibbank and Ukrainian Down Syndrome Organization (UDSO) 170 thousand hryvnias have already been raised for special training programs aimed to teach kids with Down syndrome to speak and read, reported the press-centre of UkrSibbank.
 
17 general education schools, 2 universities, 1 drama theater, 10 private companies, 1 child daycare institution, 1 rehabilitation center and the Central regional library in Kovel have already joined the project. On their premises the project's materials were displayed and mini-lectures on special needs of Down syndrome children were given.
 
“We are very happy that more and more people are joining this project. This proves that Ukrainian community began to notice the children with Down syndrome and wants to help them believe that they can live normal lives: get education, work, have a hobby. The money that we raised will be put into use right away, as early as in June we will start applying this money for the development of training programs,” says Serhiy Kurianov, President of Ukrainian Down Syndrome Organization, and father of 7-year-old Illia who lives with the Down syndrome. 
 
The second stage of Silver Coin charitable project is being carried out from April 26 till July 1. Donation boxes are installed in branches of the bank all over Ukraine to raise money for special training programs aimed to teach Down syndrome kids to speak and read. The program was developed based on specific approach to teaching kids with Down syndrome to speak, improve their memory, read and count. Through using this program such children will be able to develop their potential, go to a regular daycare institution, go to school, make friends with peers, and enjoy full rights of a member of society. 
 
Everybody has a chance to help and donate any amount they can, even a few kopecks. To do that just put your coins or paper bills into donation box or remit funds to the UDSO’s account. All raised amounts will be credited to the Down syndrome account on a weekly basis.
 
“The first stage of Silver Coin was carried out only in Kyiv and this year all Ukraine can participate in the project. We were able to raise such a significant amount thanks to support from people from all over the country. The project will continue for another month. We hope to see such good results once again. Don’t stay indifferent, support the project, tell your friends about the Silver Coin and encourage them to participate. The “Children of the Sun” need our help,” says Vladlen Dedkov, Head of the Kyiv Regional Department of UkrSibbank BNP Paribas Group.