Celebrating Our Partnership with Noah Homes: Expanding PERCH and Enriching Community Connections

The Foundation is committed to ensuring individuals have meaningful opportunities to connect with others, pursue their passions, and actively participate in their communities.

One of the most joyful examples of this mission in action is our partnership with Noah Homes and their expanding PERCH (Providing Exceptional Relationships Cause Happiness) program.

What began as a small, internal initiative at Noah Homes has blossomed into a vibrant, community-wide effort that brings adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) together through meaningful, culturally enriching experiences. Through this partnership, PERCH is now reaching even more individuals across San Diego—offering opportunities for connection, confidence-building, and fun.

Investing in Inclusion: How FDD Funds Are Making a Difference

In 2025, FDD awarded $10,000 in Program Grant funding to support PERCH's growth. These funds are helping Noah Homes increase accessibility, expand programming, and make community exploration possible for all participants.

Our investment supports:

• Monthly cultural and community outings

• Accessibility accommodations that ensure every participant can engage fully

• Entry fees, supplies, and program materials

• Social connection activities that increase independence, confidence, and belonging

From Padres games to museum visits to cultural festivals, each outing is intentionally designed to spark joy, foster independence, celebrate diversity, and create lasting memories.

A Spotlight on Cultural Enrichment: Dia de los Muertos Celebration

One of the most beautiful examples of PERCH’s impact this year was the Dia de los Muertos celebration held on November 2, 2025, which drew more than 100 participants.

With support from FDD funds, the event featured:

• A community ofrenda.

• Ballet folklórico performance.

• Live mariachi.

• Face painting.

• Traditional Mexican cuisine.

• A welcoming, inclusive environment for residents and guests alike.

This immersive cultural experience not only honored an important tradition but also created meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, and celebration within the I/DD community.

As Valerie Davis, Program Manager at Noah Homes, shared:

“Funds from the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities are helping Noah Homes expand its programming for Noah’s PERCH, a social club for and by adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. More specifically, funds are supporting a calendar year of monthly activities focused on immersive cultural events, such as a recent Dia de los Muertos event held on November 2, 2025. More than 100 people attended the event… Noah Homes will continue to use FDD funds to raise awareness of cultures and communities from around the globe!”

Photos from the celebration beautifully capture the energy, color, and joy that filled the space, highlighting the impact of inclusive programming when the community comes together.

Expanding Reach: More Outings, More Connections, More Joy

With FDD’s support, PERCH is extending its reach far beyond the Noah Homes community. The expanded programming allows participants to:

• Explore new places and cultural experiences.

• Build social connections and friendships.

• Increase independence through community participation.

• Engage in activities that align with personal interests.

• Experience the broader world around them with dignity and support.

These experiences aren’t just fun; they are transformative. They enhance quality of life, reduce social isolation, and create pathways for personal growth and community inclusion.

Learn More About PERCH

We are proud to partner with Noah Homes and support the PERCH program as it grows into a model of creativity, inclusion, and community engagement.

To learn more about PERCH and its mission to foster exceptional relationships, visit: https://noahsperch.org/about