Belong. Believe. Achieve.
“People with Down’s Syndrome deserve more. They are an integral part of humanity and deserve to be included as such. Here’s to a brighter future where people with Down’s Syndrome are celebrated, believed and go on to change the world.”
Alexandra Munn — Founder
Alex & Alfie
Alex was just 18 years old when she began working as a support worker for young disabled people. It was through this experience that she discovered her passion for disability support and inclusion, leading her to study Special Educational Needs and Disability Studies at the University of Suffolk. Alex graduated with a First Class degree and was awarded the University’s Dissertation of the Year Award in 2018 for her research, “An Exploration into the Perspectives of Young Men with Down’s Syndrome on Love.”
In September 2018, Alex founded Project 21.
Alex’s first experience of Down’s Syndrome was meeting Alfie, an 11-year-old boy with a love of singing, dancing and making people laugh. The pair met every Saturday and quickly developed a close friendship. As this bond grew, Alex became immersed in the Down’s Syndrome community, organising voluntary theatre trips to London and regular social opportunities for Alfie and his friends.
As her experience in the sector grew, Alex recognised that most services available to disabled people were limited, unchallenging, and failed to reflect the ambitions and potential of those accessing them. She saw a need for something different; a place that listened to people with Down’s Syndrome, valued their aspirations and created opportunities that were exciting, ambitious and meaningful.
From this vision, Project 21 was born: a charity dedicated to providing innovative activities, education, employment opportunities and social experiences for people with Down’s Syndrome, supporting them to exceed expectations and continually push boundaries.
More than a decade after they first met, Alfie remains at the heart of Project 21’s story. His determination, positivity, and zest for life inspired Alex to see the world differently and helped shape the values upon which the charity was founded. His influence continues to drive Project 21’s mission to create a future where people with Down’s Syndrome are empowered to thrive, achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives.
Our Mission
To empower people with Down’s syndrome to live fulfilling, independent and connected lives by providing opportunities to learn, develop, socialise and thrive within their local communities.
What We Do
The charity currently operates across three branches in Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex, providing a wide range of opportunities that support learning, wellbeing, and growth. Through our programmes, Project 21 supports members to develop, grow, learn, build friendships and access meaningful opportunities and experiences within their community.
🎭 Spotlight 21
Our specialist performing arts programme, giving members the chance to shine on stage and build confidence through drama, dance, and music.
📚 Culture Club
An educational course combining community experiences, trips, and classroom learning to broaden horizons and develop life skills.
💼 Work Placements
Paid and voluntary work placement opportunities, helping members gain real-world experience, skills, and independence in the workplace.
🏕️ Residentials
Residential trips providing 37 days and 30 nights of respite per year — building independence, social skills, and unforgettable memories.
📅 Saturday Clubs
Half and full day Saturday sessions packed with activities, social time, and fun — giving members something to look forward to every weekend.
🎉 Social Events
Weekly social events including pub nights for adults, community outings, and seasonal celebrations — because everyone deserves a social life.
Our Team
Management Team
Alex
CEO & Founder
Jessica
Head of Provision
Lisa
Head of Marketing & Communications
Laura
Head of Development
Anne
Assistant Manager
Charlie
Assistant Manager
Ellen
Assistant Manager & Spotlight Lead
Rob
Assistant Manager & Culture Club Lead
Our Trustees
Andrew Harston MBE
Chair
Angela Evans
Safeguarding Trustee
Karl Jermyn
Treasurer
Colin Adwent
Trustee
Rob Jones
Trustee
Fiona Rogers
Trustee
Mark Rogers
Trustee
Want to Join the Team?
We’re always looking for passionate people who share our values and want to make a difference.