The LiveUp Mission

“I enjoyed meeting new people and experiencing motivating activities as a group. I love to cook and learn about new recipes. The Farmers Market was a good place to buy veggies and then cook together. The sail boat was so much fun and we all had a great time. I enjoy LiveUp so much because my goal is to be independent and learn to do things without my parents. LiveUp gives everyone the opportunity for decision making, accountability, responsibility as individual and working together in a group. The Mentors are wonderful and they help all of us to learn new things and to have fun.”

'This is Melissa and I have attended LiveUp 3 times. It's a great experience to connect with people and get to know them. I encourage all of you to attend these programs. They benefit you by learning daily living skills and community resources in different states. I have had a wonderful opportunity to attend these programs and I truly recommend it to all of you. The volunteers are great and the directors do a wonderful job planning the programs throughout the year. I hope you get to come to LiveUp and become part of the LiveUp family. thanks Melissa'

'Briana has attend LiveUp since it's inception and I remain in awe of the program that you have nurtured. First‚ there are the INCREDIBLE volunteers....many of whom return year after year. Their giving and absolute zest for the program is astounding. Each and every young woman that Briana has ever been paired with has brought something unique and has made a deep impression on her and always a good one! Second‚ the emphasis on independence and healthy living‚ as an adult‚ has inspired Briana to assume responsibility for some of her health care and her transportation to and from work for two examples. Third‚ the camaraderie and sense of 'family' that is LiveUp make it a truly unique experience and one that Briana‚ Joe and I are truly proud to be a part of.'

"As a kid, and then as a mom, I dreaded Labor Day. To me it meant the end of summer, the end of freedom. However, when my son, Phillip, began a tradition of attending Live Up DC, Labor Day weekend became a much anticipated adventure which offers fun and freedom - both for HIM and HIS PARENTS! Phillip loves his Live Up weekends. Being part of a caring and energetic group of age appropriate peers who engage in meaningful activities offered by the city is stimulating, and offers him a chance to feel independent from the "norm" of life at home with mom and dad. And in turn we (mom and dad) get a break, too (although I confess I spend a LOT of time on the iPad during Live Up weekend, just seeking out the amazing photos and activity updates that leave us in AWE of the commitment and creativity of the Live Up planning team!)"

"Daniel just came home from Philadelphia. He had a great experience. I'd just like to wrap my arms around everyone of the mentors and staff with a huge hug of gratitude and blessing. You are each so special. I have frequently referred to you as angels sent from heaven, to spend all the time and effort in planning and then giving an entire long weekend to be with Daniel and all the other campers. Daniel can be a typical Downs gentleman, with the huge smile and easy going attitude, mixed with the need for strict routine and stubbornness. And to our amazement, you keep inviting him back! And Karthik, wonderful Karthik, continues to host Daniel - I think this is the third year that they have been together. And he even talks about seeing us next year... Thank you again and again.