Welcome to the Virginia Down Syndrome Association
find information, resources, care, and connection to a supportive and welcoming community.
Welcome to the Virginia Down Syndrome Association! We are glad you are here! We are a community of individuals with Down syndrome, their family members and caregivers, friends, and professionals all committed to creating a community where all individuals with Down syndrome are valued for their unique abilities and differences. Here you will find information, resources, care, and connection to a supportive and welcoming community.
EDUCATION
EDUCATION
Through education programs, conferences, webinars, and parent chats we educate individuals with Down syndrome, their caregivers, and members of our community about Down syndrome. Our education programming covers the lifespan, from early childhood development to IEPs, behavior management, waivers, employment resources, housing resources and more!
FAMILY SUPPORT
FAMILY SUPPORT
We believe individuals with Down syndrome are valuable members of our community who have an important contribution to offer. We provide opportunities, support, resources, and advocacy to support individuals with Down syndrome in achieving their full potential. We believe all individuals with Down syndrome are unique and celebrate the unique qualities and characteristics of everyone with Down syndrome in our community.COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
We are a community within a community that celebrates and embraces individuals with Down syndrome. We listen, we learn, and we have fun! Together, we help each other every step of the journey.
Our Service Area
We proudly serve over 650 families across Greater Richmond, Charlottesville, Williamsburg, Fredericksburg, and the Central Shenandoah Valley and we look forward to welcoming you into our community.
If you do not live in our service area, we would love to help you get connected with one of the other Down Syndrome Associations in Virginia. If you are not in one of the Associations’ geographic areas, please reach out to us and we would be happy to be a resource for you.
“They have been helpful in me finding more things about how to advocate for my daughter, finding right medical help and many more things for which I am very grateful to them. I am thankful to DSAGR* for organizing such events since that made it possible for me to connect to other moms having similar journey to mine. They say it takes an army to raise a child and I would consider them part of Saisha’s army.”
“One of the most important things I did was pick up the phone and get connected with Kim Owens, Education Director at DSAGR*. Her knowledge coupled with her passion for inclusion gave me the courage and connections to advocate for what I knew to be best for Everett and our family. I will forever be grateful that the DSAGR, and their connections, stood beside us; because of the actions of many, Everett is fully included and thriving in his neighborhood school.”
“Two weeks after David was born, we received his Down syndrome diagnosis. Having a lot of questions and even more anxiety, I contacted the DADS group at DSAGR*. That very same day, another Dad contacted me, and in the process shared his own positive experience of parenting a child with Down syndrome. He encouraged me to attend the next DADS meet-up, and I’ve been involved ever since. The DADS group is friendly, inclusive, and incredibly knowledgeable, with years of experience and advice that’s always willingly shared.”
*VDSA was formerly known as DSAGR
Calendar and News
Events and Publications
Calendar of Events
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M Mon
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F Fri
S Sat
1 event,
Park Meet Up – Taylor Farm Park, Sandston (RVA)
Park Meet Up – Taylor Farm Park, Sandston (RVA)
Join families for Fun Park Meet ups October 27 - Taylor Farm Park, Sandston, 2:00 - 4:00 pm Nov. 17 - R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks, Chester - 2:00 - 4:00 pm All ages welcome Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/78196-park-meet-ups-tricities-2024
0 events,
3 events,
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19
at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday
Richmond – Jr. Range After School Club Pocahontas St. Park
Richmond – Jr. Range After School Club Pocahontas St. Park
Jr. Ranger After School Club includes snack time at end at the indoor Nature Center Tuesday, Oct. 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5 4:00 - 5:00 pm Pocahontas State Park, Chesterfield 10301 State Park Rdm Chesterfield, VA 23832 All participants will earn a Junior Ranger Badge!! Siblings of all age welcome. All ages welcome! Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75190-richmond-jr-ranger-club-at-pocahontas-state-park-oct-nov-2024
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Two - six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19 at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday Location: Dream Catchers Riding Center 10120 Fire Tower Rd, Toano, VA 23168 Scholarships are available Register by emailing smclain@virginiadsa.org
3 events,
Adventure Club – Richmond
Adventure Club – Richmond
Adventure Club Day: THURSDAYS 4:30-5:30 PM NEW FALL DATES Dates: 10/3/24, 10/10/24, 10/17/24, 10/24/24, 10/31/24*** Halloween, maybe move it to Wednesday of that week, 11/7/24 - Indoor rock climbing. Location: Bryan Park, 4308 Hermitage Rd, Richmond Join us for hiking, fishing and outdoor fun! Led by Beyond Boundaries and co-hosted with Jacob's Chance Ages 13-20 (FunQuest) & 21+ (Fun4Life) Register here
Virtual – School Inclusion Support Group
Virtual – School Inclusion Support Group
Join us for the monthly school-inclusion focused VDSA caregiver support group. This group is peer-led by parents of school-aged children with Down syndrome. Come ask your questions and share your knowledge and experience with others on a similar journey! register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/77088-virtual-school-inclusion-group-oct-2024
21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series!
21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series!
21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series! The group, 21 shades of Virginia, is a support group created after an expressed need in support of families expecting or raising a Black/interracial child with Down Syndrome. October 2, 2024 — November 6, 2024 - 8:00 - 9:00PM Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 and Nov. 6 Any questions please email mail jsamuel@virginiadsa.org Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76989-21-shades-fall-meeting-series
1 event,
Virtual – Improvaneer – Fall Session 2
Virtual – Improvaneer – Fall Session 2
Join us for this fulfilled virtual hour! Thursdays: 7:00-8:00 pm Session 2: Oct. 10 to Nov. 7 Ages teen to adult Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74445-virtual-improvaneer-method-class The Virginia Down Syndrome Association is excited to start the virtual Improvaneer Method 5 week class again!! Returning and new participants welcome! Teens and adults are welcome to sign up! The Improvaneer Method: Teaches participants: Eye Contact. Creative Thinking. Adaption To Change. Quick Thinking. Focus. Listening. Voice Projection. Character Development. Attention To Detail. Structure: Each class lasts one hour and has a theme, a discussion, five games, and ‘homeprov’ that the participants are to practice with friends […]
3 events,
Williamsburg Parent Night Respite Event
Williamsburg Parent Night Respite Event
Calling all Williamsburg families! We love our kids, AND we can use a break sometimes. Bring the kids for fun and games while you get time for self-care at the VDSA Parent Night Respite Event. Individuals with Down syndrome and their siblings are welcome. Learn more and register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76969-williamsburg-parent-night-respite-event
Charlottesville Moms’ Night Out
Charlottesville Moms’ Night Out
Charlottesville Moms' Night Out Fall 2024 All Friday nights at 6:30 pm Sept. 27 - La Zeez, Modern Indian Fair, 401 E. Main St., Charlottesville Oct. 18 - Burton's Grill and Bar, 3530 W. Cary St. Nov. 1 - Fardowners, 5773 The Square, Crozet Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74979-charlottesville-moms-night-outs-aug-nov-2024
Richmond – Moms’ Night Out, Short Pump
Richmond – Moms’ Night Out, Short Pump
Join other Moms for a Dinner out for good food and conversation. Everyone pays for their own meal. All start at 6:30 pm. Friday, August 9 - Midlothian - Charred - 13451 Hull Street Rd N, Midlothian, VA 23112 Friday, Sept. 27 - Forest Hill - Maldini's Ristorante Pizzeria, 4811 Forest Hill Ave, Richmond, VA 23225 Friday, October 18 - Richmond, Brambly Park, 708 Belleville St, Richmond, VA 23230 Friday, November 1 - Short Pump - West Coast Provisions, 301 Maltby Blvd, Henrico, VA 23233 Friday, November 22 - Midlothian - Yamato Japanese Steakhouse, 13607 Hull Street Rd, Midlothian, VA 23112 Hope you can join us! Register here: […]
2 events,
Fredericksburg Family Program at Steadfast Trail Farm
Fredericksburg Family Program at Steadfast Trail Farm
Fredericksburg Family Program at Steadfast Trail Farm November 2, 2024 @ 10:00AM — 12:00PM Steadfast Trail Farm 6830 Hickory Ridge Rd Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551 Join Fredericksburg area families for a morning at Steadfast Trail Farm! Steadfast Trail farm is a non-profit organization founded to utilize horses in therapy for special needs and youth! We will be grooming the horses, petting the goats and playing games! Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76201-fredericksburg-fall-family-program-2024
Richmond Family Hike – Pocahontas State Park
Richmond Family Hike – Pocahontas State Park
Join VDSA for family friendly nature hikes! Nov. 2 at Pocahontas State Park led by a Park Ranger Will finish and have snack in their nature center activity room Nov. 10 at Deep Run Park in Henrico County led by Beyond Boundaries. Will end with snacks and drinks. All ages and siblings welcome! No charge Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75160-richmond-nature-hikes-nov-2024
2 events,
Richmond – Friendship Club – Gals
Richmond – Friendship Club – Gals
VDSA is excited to announce the Friendship Club for Guys & Gals. Ages teen to young adult. Gals time: 1:00- 2:30 pm Guys time: 3:00- 4:30 pm Each month will have a new topic included with fun activities. Friendship skills Social skills Build social connections Learn about emotions Deal with confrontation How to cope when things don't go your way and more Club meeting dates are all Sundays: March 17, April 14, May 5, June 2, July 14, Aug. 25, Sept. 22, Oct. 6 and Nov. 3 (Club party) It is important to be able to attend the majority of the […]
Richmond – Friendship Club – Guys
Richmond – Friendship Club – Guys
VDSA is excited to announce the Friendship Club for Guys & Gals. Ages teen to young adult. Guys time: 3:00- 4:30 pm Each month will have a new topic included with fun activities. Friendship skills Social skills Build social connections Learn about emotions Deal with confrontation How to cope when things don't go your way and more Club meeting dates are all Sundays: March 17, April 14, May 5, June 2, July 14, Aug. 25, Sept. 22, Oct. 6 and Nov. 3 (Club party) It is important to be able to attend the majority of the dates. Teen and young adult […]
1 event,
Richmond Grandparent Support Group – Nov 2024
Richmond Grandparent Support Group – Nov 2024
Connect with other grandparents of individuals with Down syndrome! This group is peer-led and will meet in-person at our Richmond office. Details in the registration: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76776-hybrid-grandparent-support-group-november-2024
1 event,
Richmond – Jr. Range After School Club Pocahontas St. Park
Richmond – Jr. Range After School Club Pocahontas St. Park
Jr. Ranger After School Club includes snack time at end at the indoor Nature Center Tuesday, Oct. 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5 4:00 - 5:00 pm Pocahontas State Park, Chesterfield 10301 State Park Rdm Chesterfield, VA 23832 All participants will earn a Junior Ranger Badge!! Siblings of all age welcome. All ages welcome! Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75190-richmond-jr-ranger-club-at-pocahontas-state-park-oct-nov-2024
1 event,
21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series!
21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series!
21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series! The group, 21 shades of Virginia, is a support group created after an expressed need in support of families expecting or raising a Black/interracial child with Down Syndrome. October 2, 2024 — November 6, 2024 - 8:00 - 9:00PM Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 and Nov. 6 Any questions please email mail jsamuel@virginiadsa.org Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76989-21-shades-fall-meeting-series
2 events,
Adventure Club – Richmond
Adventure Club – Richmond
Adventure Club Day: THURSDAYS 4:30-5:30 PM NEW FALL DATES Dates: 10/3/24, 10/10/24, 10/17/24, 10/24/24, 10/31/24*** Halloween, maybe move it to Wednesday of that week, 11/7/24 - Indoor rock climbing. Location: Bryan Park, 4308 Hermitage Rd, Richmond Join us for hiking, fishing and outdoor fun! Led by Beyond Boundaries and co-hosted with Jacob's Chance Ages 13-20 (FunQuest) & 21+ (Fun4Life) Register here
Virtual – Improvaneer – Fall Session 2
Virtual – Improvaneer – Fall Session 2
Join us for this fulfilled virtual hour! Thursdays: 7:00-8:00 pm Session 2: Oct. 10 to Nov. 7 Ages teen to adult Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74445-virtual-improvaneer-method-class The Virginia Down Syndrome Association is excited to start the virtual Improvaneer Method 5 week class again!! Returning and new participants welcome! Teens and adults are welcome to sign up! The Improvaneer Method: Teaches participants: Eye Contact. Creative Thinking. Adaption To Change. Quick Thinking. Focus. Listening. Voice Projection. Character Development. Attention To Detail. Structure: Each class lasts one hour and has a theme, a discussion, five games, and ‘homeprov’ that the participants are to practice with friends […]
2 events,
Richmond – T21 Golf Tournament 2024
Richmond – T21 Golf Tournament 2024
Join us for the 2024 T21 Golf Tournament! Join us for the 2024 T21 Golf Tournament benefitting the Virginia Down Syndrome Association. Tee off at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, November 8th at the Sycamore Creek Golf Course. All greens fees, carts and lunch are included in the cost. Any questions or to sponsor, contact Mike Baum, mbaum@virginiadsa.org Questions? Contact Tournament Director, Billy Hamm: billhamm117@gmail.com Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74279-richmond-t21-golf-tournament-2024
Richmond – Painting Class
Richmond – Painting Class
Richmond - Painting Class in Midlothian Fridays 12:30 to 1:30 pm $15 per person Open to All Friends with Disabilities Sept. 13, Oct. 18, Nov. 8 & Dec. 13 Art Factory, 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71081-richmond-painting-classes-at-the-art-factory-fall-2024
3 events,
The Learning Program
The Learning Program
Register for The Learning Program 2024-2025! -8 monthly sessions held on Saturdays between October 2024 and May 2025. -All sessions will have an in-person and virtual option, except May which is entirely virtual. -Location: Shady Grove YMCA – 11255 Nuckols Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059 -Cost: The cost of the program is $250 (in person), $205 (virtual) (Scholarships Available). Dates: October 5, 2024, November 9, 2024, December 14, 2024. January 11, 2025. February 8, 2025. March 8, 2025, April 12, 2025 and May 10, 2025 (Virtual only Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am -Link to apply for scholarship: https://virginiadsa.org/scholarships/ The Learning Program is an educational program developed by the Down Syndrome Foundation of […]
Sensory Friendly Improv Show – Richmond
Sensory Friendly Improv Show – Richmond
Richmond, Sensory Friendly Improv Show Pine Camp Cultural Arts and Community Center- 4901 Old Brook Rd., Richmond, VA 23227 Join VDSA for this Sensory Friendly Improv Show presented by Bridge 9. 11 am on Nov. 9th Parents can drop off or attend For FunQuest: ages 12 to 20 and Fun4Life: ages 21 plus We want to include everyone. If the registration fee would prevent you from attending please use code "VIPguest" to register at no cost. Bridge 9 Theater At Bridge 9 Theater we believe that improv should be accessible and inclusive. We are thrilled to bring Sensory Friendly Improv Shows to RVA. […]
Richmond – River City Inclusive Gym
Richmond – River City Inclusive Gym
River City Inclusive Gym Monthly on Saturdays Dates: Nov. 9 Times and ages: 3:00-3:45 pm - Ages 2 to 8 Times and ages:4:00-4:45 pm - Ages 9 and up (age groups will be separated)) Cost: $10 per session Siblings welcome. Register in age group of sibling with Ds. Location: 11248 Patterson Ave, Henrico, VA 23238 2 miles from Hwy 288 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74443-richmond-river-city-inclusive-gym River City Inclusive Gym class is designed to engage every athlete physically and mentally. Each class is set in an obstacle course format. This provides us optimum opportunity to instruct 1:1 while the whole group stays engaged. Upon entering the gym, the […]
1 event,
Richmond Family Hike – Henrico
Richmond Family Hike – Henrico
Join VDSA for family friendly nature hikes! Nov. 2 at Pocahontas State Park led by a Park Ranger Will finish and have snack in their nature center activity room Nov. 10 at Deep Run Park in Henrico County led by Beyond Boundaries. Will end with snacks and drinks. All ages and siblings welcome! No charge Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75160-richmond-nature-hikes-nov-2024
0 events,
2 events,
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19
at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Two - six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19 at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday Location: Dream Catchers Riding Center 10120 Fire Tower Rd, Toano, VA 23168 Scholarships are available Register by emailing smclain@virginiadsa.org
0 events,
1 event,
Virtual Solo Support Squad – November 2024
Virtual Solo Support Squad – November 2024
Join us for this group of single parents of individuals with Down syndrome as we connect and share the joys and challenges of parenthood! This group is peer-led and meets virtually via Zoom on the last Thursday of each month (second Thursday of the month in Nov/Dec 2024 to avoid large holidays). Register here to receive the Zoom link: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/78469-virtual-solo-support-squad-support-group-for-single-parents-nov-2024
1 event,
Richmond- Children’s Museum
Richmond- Children’s Museum
Join VDSA at the Sensory Friendly Nights at The Children's Museum of Richmond Fridays, 5-7 pm Sept 20 - Downtown Oct. 18 - Chesterfield Nov. 15 - Downtown No charge Siblings welcome Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75209-richmond-sensory-night-at-the-children-s-museum
2 events,
Fire Station Visit – Louisa Cty
Fire Station Visit – Louisa Cty
November 16 at 11 am with Pizza Lunch afterwards Holly Grove Volunteer Fire Dpt & Rescue Squad, 155 Factory Mill Rd. Bumpass, VA 23024 (20 minutes away from Short Pump, Just off the Oilville/Goochland exit from I-64) FREE EVENT Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/77503-fire-station-visit-nov-2024
Richmond Rock Climbing
Richmond Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing, led by our partner, Beyond Boundaries Nov. 16 at Peak Experiences, Midlothian, 11421 Polo Circle No experience needed Siblings welcome $5 per person Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75069-richmond-rock-climbing
3 events,
Richmond – Yoga Through the Jungle
Richmond – Yoga Through the Jungle
Join VDSA for this wonderful new program! Yoga Journey Thru the Jungle Promoting awareness, focus, balance and socialization Lots of animal poses and fun We know the kids will not stay still for too long and that is no problem! Ages 5 to 12 Siblings are welcome Cost $5 per person Sept. 15, Oct. 20 and Nov. 17 - 10 am to 11 am Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75059-richmond-yoga-through-the-jungle
Park Meet Up – Dodd Park at Point of Rocks, Chester
Park Meet Up – Dodd Park at Point of Rocks, Chester
Join families for Fun Park Meet ups Nov. 17 - R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks, Chester - 2:00 - 4:00 pm All ages welcome Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/78196-park-meet-ups-tricities-2024
Moms’ Night Out – Williamsburg
Moms’ Night Out – Williamsburg
Williamsburg Moms Night Out Nov. 17, 2024 November 17, 2024 @ 6:30PM — 8:30PM Craft 31 : 3701 Strawberry Plains Rd Williamsburg, VA 23188 Come out and meet other moms! Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/77275-williamsburg-moms-night-out-nov-17-2024
0 events,
2 events,
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19
at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Two - six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19 at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday Location: Dream Catchers Riding Center 10120 Fire Tower Rd, Toano, VA 23168 Scholarships are available Register by emailing smclain@virginiadsa.org
0 events,
0 events,
2 events,
Richmond – Moms’ Night Out, Midlothian
Richmond – Moms’ Night Out, Midlothian
Join other Moms for a Dinner out for good food and conversation. Everyone pays for their own meal. All start at 6:30 pm. Friday, August 9 - Midlothian - Charred - 13451 Hull Street Rd N, Midlothian, VA 23112 Friday, Sept. 27 - Forest Hill - Maldini's Ristorante Pizzeria, 4811 Forest Hill Ave, Richmond, VA 23225 Friday, October 18 - Richmond, Brambly Park, 708 Belleville St, Richmond, VA 23230 Friday, November 1 - Short Pump - West Coast Provisions, 301 Maltby Blvd, Henrico, VA 23233 Friday, November 22 - Midlothian - Yamato Japanese Steakhouse, 13607 Hull Street Rd, Midlothian, VA 23112 Hope you can join us! Register here: […]
Parent Night Out – Petersburg
Parent Night Out – Petersburg
Join as Mom and Dad or Mom or Dad. Good food and conversation. Everyone pays for their own dinner. Friday, Nov. 22 - The Landing Grill, 8629 River Rd, Petersburg 6:30 pm Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/78197-parent-s-night-outs-tricities-2024
0 events,
0 events,
0 events,
2 events,
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding- Morning – Williamsburg
six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19
at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Fall Horseback Riding – afternoon sessions – Williamsburg
Two - six week sessions - 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19 at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday Location: Dream Catchers Riding Center 10120 Fire Tower Rd, Toano, VA 23168 Scholarships are available Register by emailing smclain@virginiadsa.org
0 events,
1 event,
Thanksgiving
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