Hello Family and Friends-

As most of you are aware, our son Brooks was born January 5, 2012.  Shortly after his birth, Brooks was diagnosed with Down Syndrome.  He had a tough fight to get home, but after a 2 week stay in the NICU, Brooks proved to be a fighter!  Brooks arrived home, welcomed by his two, Proud, older brothers who were so excited to have him join our family and to get their hands on him.  In those initial dark days, I can truly say I never imagined things would be this perfect!  Brooks has been a wonderful addition to our family and taught us all so much!  As the boys say, "Brooks is the cutest baby" and "He's just what we wished for". If you believe like I do, that each life has a purpose, it is not hard to see what Brooks' purpose is for this life.   He brings joy to all that he meets and can put a smile on many faces!  Although he faces many challenges in regards to his development, he proves day after day that he is a fighter and up for all that he encounters.  We hope you can celebrate the life of our son and support the organization that gives such wonderful support to our new community.  Please see below what your dontation will support.  Come walk with Brooks' Brigade on October 27, 2012!   

Are you Ready to Step Up for Down Syndrome? Did you know that each year 5,000 babies are born with Down syndrome and that there are over 400,000 individuals living with Down syndrome in the United States?

The Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City (DSG) serves over 1100 families and partners with 22 hospitals, 45 school districts and countless service providers in Kansas and Missouri. We invite you to Step Up and support our members and the work of the DSG by participating in one of the largest celebrations for Down syndrome in the nation. Our 2011 walk was a smashing success thanks to 330 teams, 8,300 walkers, and 400 volunteers!  Will you be there to help us cross the finish line this year?

Your participation in the walk shows you support inclusion and acceptance for people with Down syndrome and recognize their many gifts, talents and contributions to society. We envision a bright future with your help.

Each step you take and every dollar you raise will help the DSG continue to provide vital programs and services offering educational and social support to people with Down syndrome, their families and the professionals who serve them. Important work waits to be done to enhance research, education and advocacy programs. Your support is critical in making these programs a reality.

What difference can you make by Stepping Up?

* When you raise $100 you help DSG provide two families with hospital meal vouchers during extended hospital stays.

* When you raise $200 you help DSG provide a family experiencing a new diagnosis a welcome basket full of gifts and resources on Down syndrome.

* When you raise $250 you help DSG host a quarterly social activity for teens and adults with Down syndrome.

* When you raise $500 you help DSG host a quarterly support breakfast for parents and grandparents.

* When you raise $750 you help DSG provide conference scholarships to educators and professionals who support individuals with Down syndrome.

* When you raise $1000 you help DSG publish an issue of our award winning Connections Newsletter.

View DSG's Programs & Services Brochure, 2011 Annual Report and organizational video to learn more about how the funds you raise are used to improve the lives of people with Down syndrome.

We thank you for your generous support of Brooks' Brigade and look forward to seeing you Saturday, October 27, 2012 at the Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk & Festival!