What We Do
Our Mission
We empower individuals with Down syndrome and their communities through education, resources, outreach and advocacy. We are committed to amplifying our collective voices and broader needs to drive meaningful change.
Click here to download our general brochure.
Our Vision
We promote a happy, healthy, accepting environment that enables independence for people with Down syndrome so that they may reach their potential at all stages of their lives.
History
The group was founded in 1982 by a small group of parents looking to share information and network in order to serve their children with Down syndrome. In 2015, we engaged an external facilitator and began a strategic planning process, the biggest result of which was a commitment to moving from an all-volunteer model to paid staff for continuity of service to the Down syndrome community. We began by engaging part-time contractors to carry out the mission. In 2020, we hired our first, full-time employee - another commitment to consistent and timely support of the community into the future. Currently, we support nearly 800 families, individuals, and organizations with an interest in the well-being of persons with Down syndrome. In 2022, after a planned process of internal and external focus groups and surveys, we registered our new trademarked name: Down Syndrome Association of Maryland, a name that became official on Valentine’s Day 2022.
See our 2022 Impact
Funding
Chesapeake Down Syndrome Parent Group, Inc., doing business as Down Syndrome Association of Maryland, is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We are funded through fundraising events, including the Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk, corporate sponsors, and donations from generous supporters just like you. Our EIN is 52-1753132. Click here to Download our W-9. Click here to visit our Donate page.
Strategic Plan
A strategic plan serves as a roadmap for our future. The goal of the strategic planning process is to
provide focus and direction to the organization over the next 5 years, and improve consistency and effectiveness of support and programs.