Hello, my name is Deslie and our family is from Georgia. I'm writing on behalf of my 21-year-old son, John, who was born with Down Syndrome.
For years, John has been the recipient of incredible support, and now he’s dedicated to returning that kindness by volunteering with the Dunwoody United Methodist Church (DUMC) Connected ministry. It is a profound experience for me, his mother, to see him "flip the script" and actively serve his community.
John's contagious smile and tireless spirit light up the halls of DUMC as he channels his gratitude into action. From hanging up flyers and shopping for the food bank to packaging meals and participating in community parades, he proves that every citizen, with their unique gifts, has a vital role to play. His consistent involvement is his way of actively saying thank you for the welcoming spirit of DUMC.
Volunteering provides John with an invaluable sense of purpose. The joy he feels when he knows his work has directly helped a neighbor is his biggest reward. He understands that using his energy and heart to strengthen the community is the truest gift.
To our family, work ethic and a helpful nature are fundamentally tied to the American spirit. It is the simple, foundational belief that we share a responsibility to our neighbors and that through hard work and service, we collectively build a stronger nation. John is an active citizen who contributes every day—an example of a quiet patriotism defined by inclusion, action, and working to make the dream of a good life attainable for all.
For years, John has been the recipient of incredible support, and now he’s dedicated to returning that kindness by volunteering with the Dunwoody United Methodist Church (DUMC) Connected ministry. It is a profound experience for me, his mother, to see him "flip the script" and actively serve his community.
John's contagious smile and tireless spirit light up the halls of DUMC as he channels his gratitude into action. From hanging up flyers and shopping for the food bank to packaging meals and participating in community parades, he proves that every citizen, with their unique gifts, has a vital role to play. His consistent involvement is his way of actively saying thank you for the welcoming spirit of DUMC.
Volunteering provides John with an invaluable sense of purpose. The joy he feels when he knows his work has directly helped a neighbor is his biggest reward. He understands that using his energy and heart to strengthen the community is the truest gift.
To our family, work ethic and a helpful nature are fundamentally tied to the American spirit. It is the simple, foundational belief that we share a responsibility to our neighbors and that through hard work and service, we collectively build a stronger nation. John is an active citizen who contributes every day—an example of a quiet patriotism defined by inclusion, action, and working to make the dream of a good life attainable for all.
