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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W Wed
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F Fri
S Sat
1 event,
Richmond – Mini Golf
Richmond – Mini Golf
Mini Golf at Bogeys September 29, 2024 @ 3:00PM — 4:30PM Bogeys Sports Park (near Hwy & 288) 1675 Ashland Road, Richmond (Goochland), VA 23233 Teens and Adults, FunQuest (ages 12 to 20) and Fun4Life (ages 21+) Parents can stay and volunteer or drop off! $5 per person Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75149-richmond-min-golf-sept-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
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Self-advocates, 18 and up, are invited to participate in a new program! Join Carol Coffin, MSRC, CRC, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and lead teacher of VDSA’s Summer Employment Academy to participate in community service activities to enhance social engagement, communication, and employability. Location: Brandermill Woods Health Center 2100 Brandermill Parkway Midlothian, VA 23112 Dates: September 17, 2024-October 22, 2024 Tuesdays 10:30am-12:30pm Volunteers may be dropped off (maximum of 5 registrants) or participate with an attendant (maximum of 2 registrants). Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76234-volunteer-academy
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
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 1
Virtual – Improvaneer – Fall Session 1
Join us for this fulfilled virtual hour! Thursdays: 7:00-8:00 pm Fall Session 1: Sept. 5 to Oct. 3 Fall 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 […]
0 events,
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 […]
Richmond – Art and Play in the Park, Park 365
Richmond – Art and Play in the Park, Park 365
Richmond - Art and Play in the Park, Fall 2024 Saturday, Oct. 5 @10:30 am - 12:00 pm - Park 365, 3600 Saunders Ave, Richmond, VA 23227 Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75213-richmond-art-and-play-in-the-park-fall-2024
Richmond – River City Inclusive Gym
Richmond – River City Inclusive Gym
River City Inclusive Gym Monthly on Saturdays Dates: Oct. 5 & 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 […]
3 events,
Family Fun at Autumn Harvest Acres – Dinwiddie
Family Fun at Autumn Harvest Acres – Dinwiddie
October 6, 2024 @ 10:00AM — 12:00PM Autumn Harvest Acres 20825 Carson Rd, Dinwiddie, VA 23841 Join VDSA families for Fall family fun at Autumn Harvest Acres from 10 am to Noon. $15 per person. 2 and under are free. Pay at the venue. (admission does NOT include pumpkins, sold separately) Activities include: Hayride Barrel Train ride Jump Pillow Corn maze Farm House Playground Sandbox Hay Pyramid Black Pipe Play Tunnel Cornhole Tic Tac Toe and Checkers Goat feeding area Roller slides Pumpkin Patch (admission does NOT include pumpkins, sold separately)
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 […]
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
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Self-advocates, 18 and up, are invited to participate in a new program! Join Carol Coffin, MSRC, CRC, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and lead teacher of VDSA’s Summer Employment Academy to participate in community service activities to enhance social engagement, communication, and employability. Location: Brandermill Woods Health Center 2100 Brandermill Parkway Midlothian, VA 23112 Dates: September 17, 2024-October 22, 2024 Tuesdays 10:30am-12:30pm Volunteers may be dropped off (maximum of 5 registrants) or participate with an attendant (maximum of 2 registrants). Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76234-volunteer-academy
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
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 […]
0 events,
1 event,
Step Up For Down Syndrome
Step Up For Down Syndrome
Join the Virginia Down Syndrome Association as we unite for a common cause and raise funds during the 18th Annual Step UP for Down Syndrome 5K & Family Festival! Whether you have Down syndrome, know someone who does, or just want to show your support, take the first step and donate or register today! Help us spread the word and celebrate all the amazing individuals with Down syndrome! Learn more and register here: https://www.ds-stride.org/vdsastepup
1 event,
Richmond Rock Climbing
Richmond Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing, led by our partner, Beyond Boundaries October 13th at Peak Experience, Midlothian, 11421 Polo Circle Nov. 16 - Richmond, 1375 Overbrook Rd No experience needed Siblings welcome $5 per person
0 events,
4 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
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Self-advocates, 18 and up, are invited to participate in a new program! Join Carol Coffin, MSRC, CRC, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and lead teacher of VDSA’s Summer Employment Academy to participate in community service activities to enhance social engagement, communication, and employability. Location: Brandermill Woods Health Center 2100 Brandermill Parkway Midlothian, VA 23112 Dates: September 17, 2024-October 22, 2024 Tuesdays 10:30am-12:30pm Volunteers may be dropped off (maximum of 5 registrants) or participate with an attendant (maximum of 2 registrants). Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76234-volunteer-academy
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
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
3 events,
Virtual – Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Virtual – Powerful Tools for Caregivers
It's time to make time for YOUR wellbeing! Connect with other caregivers, learn tools for self-care, and practice taking better care of ourselves together! Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a 6-week, evidence-based program out of Iowa State. We are thrilled to bring this program to VDSA families for the first time! Please register by Friday, October 11 so we can ship printed materials to you in time for the first class. Details: - 6 weeks (each week builds on the last so attendance is required) - Thursdays October 17th-November 21st - 12 noon-1:30 pm (it's ok if the kids are in the […]
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 […]
5 events,
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
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
Richmond – Moms’ Night Out, Richmond city
Richmond – Moms’ Night Out, Richmond city
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: […]
Fredericksburg Dads’ Night Out
Fredericksburg Dads’ Night Out
Fredericksburg Dads’ Night Out Oct 18 at 6:30 pm McAlister's Deli Harrison Crossing 5621 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76204-fredericksburg-mom-and-dads-night-out-fall-2024
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
0 events,
2 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
Pumpkin Carving – Richmond
Pumpkin Carving – Richmond
Pumpkin Carving! Let by parent Kim Woodbury! Bring your own pumpkin! For FunQuest Teens ages 12 to 20 years old. Snacks will be served. Outdoors at Deep Run Park, 9900 Ridgefield Pkwy, Henrico, Shelter 5 Siblings welcome. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75078-pumpkin-carving
0 events,
4 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
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Volunteer Academy – Richmond
Self-advocates, 18 and up, are invited to participate in a new program! Join Carol Coffin, MSRC, CRC, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and lead teacher of VDSA’s Summer Employment Academy to participate in community service activities to enhance social engagement, communication, and employability. Location: Brandermill Woods Health Center 2100 Brandermill Parkway Midlothian, VA 23112 Dates: September 17, 2024-October 22, 2024 Tuesdays 10:30am-12:30pm Volunteers may be dropped off (maximum of 5 registrants) or participate with an attendant (maximum of 2 registrants). Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76234-volunteer-academy
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
2 events,
Virtual – Medicaid waiver updates from All Needs Planning
Virtual – Medicaid waiver updates from All Needs Planning
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association is pleased to offer free, virtual educational sessions for caregivers this fall. All Needs Planning, which provides financial, estate, and life planning for families, has generously offered to provide the following upcoming sessions: Wednesday, August 21st - IEP Advocacy from 6:30pm-7:00pm Wednesday, September 25th - Transitioning from school to adulthood from 6:30pm-7:30pm Wednesday, October 23rd - Medicaid waiver updates from 6:30pm-7:00pm Feel free to register for all three topics and join us in conversation! For more information, contact Ame Branam, Education Director, at abranam@virginiadsa.org Click here to register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74996-virtual-educational-webinars-from-all-needs-planning
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
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 – 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 […]
Solo Support Squad Meeting October 2024
Solo Support Squad Meeting October 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 (Oct-Dec 2024 will be alternate days due to holidays). Please register for the Zoom link. https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/77383-virtual-solo-support-squad-october-2024
1 event,
Richmond – Parent Night Respite Event October 2024
Richmond – Parent Night Respite Event October 2024
The VDSA Parents' Night Respite Event will take place on Friday, October 25th from 6 pm- 8 pm at Treehouse Pediatric Therapy (12201 Gayton Rd. Henrico, VA 23238). Individuals with Down syndrome (5+) and their siblings (5+) are welcome at this event. register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76026-richmond-parent-night-respite-event-october-2024
2 events,
Williamsburg – Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat
Williamsburg – Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat
Trick or Treat - Williamsburg Disability Awareness Trick or Treat - Visit the VDSA Table among other organizations! Come by and join in the fun. On Sat. 10/26 from 9 to noon. Sponsored by James City County Parks and Rec. Sensory Friendly Event Trackless Train rides Treats for Everyone Costumes welcome Sensory Room Available Meet local organizations! October 26, 2024 @ 9:00AM — 12:00PM Abram Frink, Jr Community Center 8901 Pocahontas Trl Williamsburg, VA 23185
Richmond – Trunk or Treat
Richmond – Trunk or Treat
Richmond, Trunk or Treat, Oct. 2024 October 26, 2024 @ 11:00AM — 2:00PM Location: 1507 Huguenot Road Midlothian, VA 2311 VDSA is excited again to participate in Trunk or Treat 5th Annual Trunk or Treat event, a festive celebration designed to support and bring joy to individuals with special needs in our community. VDSA will have a trunk along with 15-20 other organizations and businesses. This is an outdoor, welcoming, sensory-friendly, intimate, and supportive event Each year we have at least 100 happy faces, young and old, visit our event. There will be popcorn too Hosted by Sandra L. Thompson and Associates Dress up and […]
0 events,
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 […]
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