A child with Down syndrome smiling in golden light

Est. 2011 — A storybook of inclusion

Empowering Families,Inspiring Lives.

A just, inclusive, and rights-affirming community where individuals with Down syndrome are recognized as capable, valued, and beloved members of society.

Chapter 01

Vision

A just, inclusive, and rights-affirming society where individuals with Down syndrome are recognized as capable and valued members of the community, enjoy equal opportunities across all stages of life, and are supported by empowered families and a culture grounded in respect, acceptance, and inclusion.

Mission

To design, implement, and sustain inclusive and rights-based programs that enhance the quality of life, independence, and social participation of individuals with Down syndrome — while empowering their families and building communities of belonging.

Chapter 02 — About

A foundation born of love, named after a daughter.

Founded in 2011 in Davao City, the Cristina Foundation for Persons with Down Syndrome was named after Cristina, whose life inspired her family to build a community where every child like her would be celebrated, supported, and seen.

For over a decade, we have walked alongside families — designing programs that affirm rights, build skills, and weave a culture of belonging across the city and beyond.

2011

Founded

9

Programs

Davao

Based in

A loving family embracing

Chapter 03

Our members are our heart.

We are a community of persons with Down syndrome, their parents, siblings, caregivers, advocates, professionals, and friends. Every family who joins becomes part of a wider circle of support — sharing milestones, navigating challenges, and celebrating life together.

Diverse community of families together

Chapter 04

Six goals, one promise.

01

Inclusive Education

Open pathways for learners with Down syndrome to thrive in school and beyond.

02

Health & Well-being

Connect families with quality health, therapy, and wellness support.

03

Economic Empowerment

Build skills for meaningful livelihood and supported employment.

04

Family Support

Strengthen families as the first community of belonging and advocacy.

05

Public Awareness

Shift culture toward acceptance, dignity, and rights-based inclusion.

06

Policy & Advocacy

Advance legal protections and meaningful participation in civic life.

Chapter 05

Core Values

Four letters. One word. A way of being together.

D

D

Dignity

Every person is born with inherent worth, deserving respect at every stage of life.

O

O

Opportunity

Equal access to learn, work, play, and contribute — without conditions.

W

W

Well-being

Whole-person care across health, emotion, relationship, and purpose.

N

N

Nurturing Community

Families, neighbors, and partners growing together in belonging.

Chapter 06 — Events

Nine annual events. One promise to grow together.

Our "Down to ___" series spans education, creativity, care, livelihood, and celebration. Open any event to walk through every edition, year by year.

Community celebrating together

An invitation

Join us in writing the next chapter.

Whether you are a parent, a sibling, a professional, or a friend — there is a place for you in this story. Volunteer your craft, lend your time, or partner with us to expand inclusion across our city.