NOTE OF WELCOME Dear parent, On behalf of the Chesapeake Down Syndrome Parent Group, Inc. and its Welcome Committee, we welcome you to the world of Down syndrome and offer membership into our enthusiastic and dynamic support community. We hope that you will always feel comfortable seeking information, support and social interaction from us. Our group is made up of 400 families who are all striving to help our children-those with and without Down syndrome-to reach their individual potential and find appropriate and comfortable places in the world. It takes a village to raise a child. CDSPG is yet another "neighborhood" in the "village" where we can turn for understanding, assistance and, when necessary, some humor to help us meet the challenges we face as parents of children with special needs. We look forward to hearing from you and meeting you and your family. If you need us, we are here to help make your journey into the world of Down syndrome both an informative and joyful one. Warmest regards, Shari Ossakow and Joanne Maits Welcome Committee Chairs Link here to a list of the "Top 5" things for new parents to do. CREED OF BABIES WITH DOWN SYNDROME My face may be different But my feelings the same I laugh and I cry And I take pride in my gains I was sent here among you to teach you to love As God in the heavens Looks down from above To Him I'm no different His love knows no bounds It's those here among you In cities and towns That judge me by standards That man has imparted But this family I've chosen Will help me get started For I'm one of the children So special and few That came here to learn The same lessons as you That love is acceptance It must come from the heart We all have the same purpose Though not the same start The Lord gave me life To live and embrace And I'll do it as you do But at my own pace.