DownRightPerfect
About Us
We are a locally-based nonprofit and 501(c)(3) that provides overnight, respite programming in the DC area for young adults with Down syndrome.
Our Mission
We provide inclusive and fun programming where young adults with Down syndrome and their peers build transformative friendships, develop new skills, grow and have fun together.
What We Do
Down Right Perfect is a vibrant sleepaway program for young adults with Down syndrome and their peers, taking place from Friday to Monday every Labor Day weekend in the DC area. We pair each participant with a similarly-aged mentor, creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. Together, we dive into classic Labor Day weekend fun — think live music, karaoke, bonfires, and a festive dinner dance! Plus, we host reunions and gatherings throughout the year to keep the magic alive.
Why We're Different
- Strong Community Bonds. We’ve built a thriving community where long-term friendships flourish – both for individuals with and without Down syndrome. With a participant retention rate of over 95% and many of our volunteers taking part in our programs for decades, everyone involved shares years of experiences and genuine connections.
- Innovative Pairing Model. Each participant in our long weekend program is paired with a similarly-aged volunteer, fostering meaningful interactions and camaraderie. This unique pairing enhances the experience for everyone involved.
- Exciting, Age Appropriate Activities. Our weekends are packed with activities that any adult would love – think live music, beer tastings, and cozy bonfires. We believe in celebrating every participant as the adults they are, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time.
Testimonials
100% of participants and volunteers who attended our 2024 long weekend program said the program was inclusive and that they made at least one new friend.
It was an incredible experience, being able to see the world through the participants’ eyes, pay close attention to what matters to them, be happy with the small things we don’t always appreciate in day-to-day life... it was just amazing!
Volunteer
The volunteers were wonderful, they really make the program! Our daughter loved her mentor and made a new friend.
Parent
Down Right Perfect was a phenomenal experience overall - the staff, participants, and overall atmosphere of warmth and fun was everything I could have hoped for and more!
Scott Gerson
Volunteer
Our son loved it! Everything seemed `"`Down Right perfect`"`!
Rhonda Turner
Parent
I loved everything except going home at the end
Eli Lewis
Participant
I felt happy while at Down Right Perfect because I liked being with my roommate and my friends, and spending time with new friends, both girls and boys. It made me feel important.
Participant
Our Team
Our team has 43 collective years of experience serving the Down syndrome community.
Laura Karp
Co-Founder
Laura is a school-based occupational therapist in Baltimore who loves spending time outside.
Kelsey Siegel
Co-Founder
Kelsey runs a horseback riding program and enjoys spending time with her dogs, Rigby and Lennon.
Roland Rizzi
Co-Founder
Roland is a consultant in Chicago who loves traveling and baking.
Join Us
Volunteers
Down Right Perfect is only possible because of our our passionate volunteers who act as mentors (paired one-to-one with a participant with Down syndrome), nurses, and media staff. No experience with the Down syndrome community is required, we are just looking for responsible, fun-loving and open-minded adults looking to have an amazing long weekend. Our volunteer application for our 2025 Labor Day overnight program is linked here, and if you have any questions before applying, please email us at downrightperfectinfo@gmail.com.
Participants & Families
Down Right Perfect serves adults with Down syndrome who are at least 21 years old. Our participant application for our 2025 Labor Day overnight program is linked here, and if you have any questions (or want to learn about our other programming), please email us at downrightperfectinfo@gmail.com.
© 2024 DownRightPerfect. All rights reserved.