About Us

Formed in 2004, Creative Arts and Abilities features the talents of Chris Burke, the actor with Down Syndrome who starred as ”Corky” on the ABC-TV hit series “Life Goes On” with award winning singer songwriters Joe and John DeMasi. Creative Arts and Abilities produces programs that promote inclusion, tolerance and ability awareness for people with disabilities. Among the projects produced by Creative Arts and Abilities are “Yes I Can” a wonderfully inspiring music video for schools, organizations and YouTube, “Everyone Can Be A…Singer With The Band” an interactive musical presentation, and “Forever Friends” an inclusive DVD series/TV show for kids ages 3-7. The goal of all of our programs is to educate about the potential, abilities and accomplishments of people with disabilities.

Board of Directors:

  • John DeMasi – President
  • Mark “Buc” Williams – Vice-President
  • Joseph DeMasi – Treasurer
  • Karen Billingsley - Web site coordinator
  • Pam Arnoldson – Founder and President of “Buddy Cruise” and a mom of a son with Down syndrome
  • Mary Ann Opsuth - Special Ed teacher’s assistant and a mom of a son with a developmental disability
  • Jay Tartikoff -  Self-advocate who has a developmental disability

Honorary Board:

  • Chris Burke – “Golden Globe” nominated actor (“Life Goes On”, “Touched By An Angel”), author and recording artist with Down syndrome
  • Dr. Libby Kumin, CCC-SLP – Noted author and Special Education educator, Loyola University, Baltimore, MD
  • Gail Williamson – Director of DSA of Los Angeles
  • Andrea Friedman - Emmy nominated actress (CSI) with Down Syndrome
  • Susan Russell - Vice-President Community Engagement for Easter Seals Milwaukee
  • Mariann Papazian - Special Education Coordinator-Clayton County, GA
  • Derek Appleyard - Director of Project Explore, Minneapolis, MN