The First International Charity Run and cross-strait empowerment forum for
persons with disabilities!
According to the《People with disabilities act of the Peoples Republic of China》, the third Sunday of May is the “National Day for Helping the Disabled”, a variety of events to raise awareness to help persons with disabilities are held according to the theme of the year. To celebrate the 28th National Day for Helping the Disabled, and the first decade of 2008 Sichuan Earthquake, The First International Charity Run and cross-strait empowerment forum for persons with disabilities was held, to indicate appreciation to those who supported the volunteers and survivors, and donated in the earthquake; hoping through marathon, empowerment forum, and accessible travel to mark the 10th anniversary of May 12th Sichuan Earthquake, as well as the social welfare system of Dujiangyan area.
At the same time, to offer persons with disabilities opportunities to break through their physical barriers and regain confidence and self-esteem, the event also invited 150 persons with disabilities from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau, Malaysia and Chengdu area. As the kick start of the event, Eden’s Joy Choir performed the classical songs “You Raise Me Up” and “ Song of Alishan”, inspiring the audiences through deep, resonate, and powerful voices. The superb professional performances of the “Cross - Strait Disabled Arts Troupe” and “School for Persons with Disabilities” brought up an amazing show which highlighting the traditional features and atmosphere of the ancient times, blending Chinese civilization and multiculturalism; The superb show by performers with different types of disabilities demonstrate the spirit of striving for excellence and self-improvement, which touched every audience member at the scene.
In addition to the brilliant opening performances, persons with disabilities also participated in the charity marathon with the assistance of volunteers, as well as visiting the magnificent three major projects of Dujiangyan Baokou, Feishayu and Yuzui, including the accessible facilities and carefully arranged accessible travel so that everyone who came to participate in the activities for the persons with disabilities can have a smooth and enjoyable journey. In addition, through the empowerment forum, every person with a disability shared with each other the outcomes of their efforts all along the way, encouraging each other through the sharing of experiences, from self-reliance to the workplace, and even to the pursuit of dreams! The event not only helped participants to gain the awareness of history and traditional culture, but also demonstrated their spirit of determination and the courage to challenge the limits of life. At the same time, it further enabled the public to understand and care for persons with disabilities.
