We are honored to dedicate this summer’s PALS Philadelphia program to be in memory of Karen Toff, a remarkable woman who inspired the idea for PALS and helped make our growing community possible.
Karen was the beloved aunt of Jason Toff, one of the co-founders of PALS. As Jason reflected on Karen’s cherished memories attending sleepaway camp as a child, he was inspired to start the very first Camp PALS in Philadelphia more than two decades ago.
As our community of partners, peers, and families gather in Philadelphia this summer, we hope to honor Aunt Karen’s lasting memory, as well as share a glimpse of the incredible woman behind this tribute.
Aunt Karen was known for her joy and her ability to make people feel welcomed and accepted. Jason describes her as the “life of any party,” as she often lit up rooms with her smile and transformed any gathering into a celebration by simply being herself. Aunt Karen was at the heart of a loving community of friends and family, and she navigated life with enthusiasm, positivity, and deep gratitude for even the simplest things.
Her impact extended far beyond those who knew her personally. Her brother, Ken Toff, who served as a medical volunteer for PALS for many years, reflected on one of his favorite memories of Karen:
"She came to my med school and addressed the 200 students and told them what it was like to have DS, a week after the chairman of pediatrics said false facts about Down Syndrome. Her smile and her approach to life made our world a better place."
She was also extremely talented, creative, and adventurous. Aunt Karen played the piano and expressed herself through writing and art. Her writings were published in a book, and her artwork was sold in the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s gift shop. She worked, traveled, volunteered at hospitals and libraries, and lived independently with her roommate, Debbie, all while building lasting friendships and touching countless lives along the way.
Aunt Karen sadly passed away in June 2025 at 65 years old. As Jason shared after her passing: “PALS is now a national nonprofit serving thousands of young adults each year, giving people with Down syndrome the times of their lives and their peers eye-opening experiences that often change their outlook on life. All because of you. While your body has moved on, your spirit will continue.”
Aunt Karen’s spirit continues to live on through the PALS community in every connection that’s formed and every individual who experiences the joy and belonging that PALS hopes to create. What once began as a single camp in Philadelphia has since grown into a national organization that brings together individuals with Down syndrome and their peers through programs across the country, creating lifelong friendships and a community of belonging.
We are deeply honored that this summer’s PALS Philadelphia program will carry Aunt Karen’s name and celebrate the lasting impact that she has had on so many lives and communities throughout the country.
During our closing ceremonies, we will take time to honor Aunt Karen’s memory and recognize the impact that she has played in shaping the PALS community and inspiring a world of belonging. We are deeply grateful to the Toff family for helping us continue to celebrate her legacy.
Thank you, Aunt Karen, for your kindness, your joy, your friendship, your inspiration, and your part in creating a world of belonging.