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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Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop ups 2024 9:30 - Noon Tuesdays 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30 All held at Virginia Down Syndrome Office, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Suite 124, Richmond, VA 23239 Ages 13 plus. Siblings invited also. $10 per pop up Weekly Themes Games Galore Movie Day Carnival Fun Painting and Karaoke Mad Science Master Chef Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71112-summer-pop-ups-2024
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1 event,
Independence Day
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1 event,
Williamsburg Picnic & Pool Party
Williamsburg Picnic & Pool Party
Join us for an afternoon of fun n the sun. Sponsored by the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71743-williamsburg-picnic-and-pool-party
1 event,
Grandparent Support Group
Grandparent Support Group
Come meet and share with other grandparents of individuals with Down syndrome! This group is peer-led. Join virtually or in-person.
1 event,
Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop ups 2024 9:30 - Noon Tuesdays 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30 All held at Virginia Down Syndrome Office, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Suite 124, Richmond, VA 23239 Ages 13 plus. Siblings invited also. $10 per pop up Weekly Themes Games Galore Movie Day Carnival Fun Painting and Karaoke Mad Science Master Chef Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71112-summer-pop-ups-2024
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1 event,
Future Planning with Eli’s Village
Future Planning with Eli’s Village
Eli's Village is hosting a future planning webinar! Join us for an exclusive webinar tailored for families with loved ones with disabilities. Discover comprehensive planning strategies encompassing financial, legal, and public benefit aspects as you prepare for your family's future. This presentation will guide you through essential considerations and empower you to make informed decisions on topics such as Special Needs Trusts, ABLE Accounts, Decision Making Models and more. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights and peace of mind. You can access this webinar through the Zoom link here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83553480365 Register for this event here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/72121-future-planning-with-eli-s-village
4 events,
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Dream Catchers - Therapeutic Riding Horseback Riding Lessons with Dream Catchers Amazing opportunity for 5 people to participate in this pilot program. Take riding lessons on 5 Fridays this summer. Weekly lessons at 9 to 10 am on: July 12, 19, 26 and August 2, and August 9! Ages 4 thru adult. Cost: It’s $40 per session or $200 total per person for all 5 sessions. Scholarships available. https://virginiadsa.org/scholarships/ Dream Catchers requires: Participants should arrive 15 minutes early to allow fitting of helmets. Parents and caregivers may stay and watch the lesson on the observation deck. A complete application, including […]
Summer Painting Classes at The Art Factory
Summer Painting Classes at The Art Factory
Summer Painting Classes at The Art Factory Once a month on Fridays 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm $15 per class 7/12, 8/9, 9/13 FunQuest (Ages 13-21) & Fun4Life (21+)adults! Siblings welcome. Art Factory, 4810 Market Square Lane, Midlothian VA 23112 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71081-painting-class-at-the-art-factory
Parent Night Respite Event – Treehouse Pediatric Therapy
Parent Night Respite Event – Treehouse Pediatric Therapy
Join off the kids for a fun time while you get some R&R! For individuals with Down syndrome and their siblings ages 5+.
Moms’ Night Out – Short Pump at Tazza Kitchen
Moms’ Night Out – Short Pump at Tazza Kitchen
Join other Moms for a Dinner out for good food and conversation. Everyone pays for their own meal. Friday, July 12 - Short Pump at Tazza Kitchen Friday, August 9 - Midlothian at Charred Hope you can join us! Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71054-moms-night-out-greater-richmond
2 events,
Shenandoah Valley Picnic
Shenandoah Valley Picnic
Shenandoah Valley Picnic July 13, 2024 @ 11:00AM — 2:00PM Oakdale Park 134 Mt Crawford Ave Bridgewater, VA 22812 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71749-shenandoah-valley-annual-summer-picnic
Pajama and Pizza Party at The Art Factory (Baby to 8 yrs old)
Pajama and Pizza Party at The Art Factory (Baby to 8 yrs old)
Pajama and Pizza Party at The Art Factory Join us on: Summer Saturday Nights July 13, &/or Aug. 3 5:00 to 7:00 pm Baby to 8 years old Siblings welcome $5 per person includes pizza and drinks (Ind. w/Ds free) Art Factory Play Space, Midlothian (Hwy 288 & Hull St. Art Factory 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian, VA 23112 Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71055-pajama-and-pizza-party-at-the-art-factory
2 events,
Friendship Club – Gals
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 […]
Friendship Club – Guys
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: 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 volunteers will be part of the Club as […]
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2 events,
Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop ups 2024 9:30 - Noon Tuesdays 7/16, 7/23, 7/30 All held at Virginia Down Syndrome Office, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Suite 124, Richmond, VA 23239 Ages 13 plus. Siblings invited also. $10 per pop up Weekly Themes Games Galore Movie Day Carnival Fun Painting and Karaoke Mad Science Master Chef Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71112-summer-pop-ups-2024
Pontoon Boat Ride (RVA)
Pontoon Boat Ride (RVA)
Join VDSA for summer pontoon boat rides! All ages welcome Parents must accompany any children under the age of 15 (Life vests are required) Adults with Ds can be drop off Families are welcome but limited space Please ensure your child is comfortable with an almost 2 hour sitting boat ride. July 16 4:00 - 6:00 pm Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71129-pontoon-boat-ride
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2 events,
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Dream Catchers - Therapeutic Riding Horseback Riding Lessons with Dream Catchers Amazing opportunity for 5 people to participate in this pilot program. Take riding lessons on 5 Fridays this summer. Weekly lessons at 9 to 10 am on: July 12, 19, 26 and August 2, and August 9! Ages 4 thru adult. Cost: It’s $40 per session or $200 total per person for all 5 sessions. Scholarships available. https://virginiadsa.org/scholarships/ Dream Catchers requires: Participants should arrive 15 minutes early to allow fitting of helmets. Parents and caregivers may stay and watch the lesson on the observation deck. A complete application, including […]
Charlottesville Moms’ Night out!
Charlottesville Moms’ Night out!
Join for the Charlottesville Moms' Night out! May 17 - Sedona Taphouse June 14 - Beer Run July 19 - Fiesta Azteca Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71576-charlottesville-moms-night-out
1 event,
Charlottesville Teen/Young Adult Putt Putt Golf
Charlottesville Teen/Young Adult Putt Putt Golf
Charlottesville Teen/Young Adult Putt Putt Golf July 20, 2024 @ 4:00PM — 5:30PM Putt Putt Fun Center - Charlottesville 1515 Putt Putt Ln Charlottesville, VA 22901 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71675-putt-putt-charlottesville-teen-young-adult-outing
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Richmond – Swaders Sports Park – Prince George
Richmond – Swaders Sports Park – Prince George
Join VDSA at Swaders Sports Park in Prince George! Address: 4725 Whitehill Blvd, Prince George, VA 23875 July 21, Time: 12:00 - 2:00 pm Individual with Down syndrome is free Indoor only $30- laser tag, bowling, kids zone, arcade Indoor and outdoor- $45- above+, go-carts, mini golf & batting cages Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71329-swaders-sport-park
1 event,
Richmond – Adventure Camp – Day 1
Richmond – Adventure Camp – Day 1
Adventure Camp Two sessions: 4 Day Camp Ages 14+ Two Sessions: June 17 to 20th and July 22 to 25th Time: 10 am - 12:00 pm Cost: $25 Adventure Camp Rafting Fishing Kayaking Pontoon Boat Ride Locations around the Richmond area. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68634-adventure-camp
2 events,
Richmond – Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Richmond – Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop ups 2024 9:30 - Noon Tuesdays 7/23, 7/30 All held at Virginia Down Syndrome Office, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Suite 124, Richmond, VA 23239 Ages 13 plus. Siblings invited also. $10 per pop up Weekly Themes Games Galore Movie Day Carnival Fun Painting and Karaoke Mad Science Master Chef Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71112-summer-pop-ups-2024
Adventure Camp – Day 2
Adventure Camp – Day 2
Adventure Camp Two sessions: 4 Day Camp Ages 14+ Two Sessions: June 17 to 20th and July 22 to 25th Time: 10 am - 12:00 pm Cost: $25 Adventure Camp Rafting Fishing Kayaking Pontoon Boat Ride Locations around the Richmond area. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68634-adventure-camp
1 event,
Adventure Camp – Day 3
Adventure Camp – Day 3
Adventure Camp Two sessions: 4 Day Camp Ages 14+ Two Sessions: June 17 to 20th and July 22 to 25th Time: 10 am - 12:00 pm Cost: $25 Adventure Camp Rafting Fishing Kayaking Pontoon Boat Ride Locations around the Richmond area. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68634-adventure-camp
2 events,
Adventure Camp – Day 4
Adventure Camp – Day 4
Adventure Camp Two sessions: 4 Day Camp Ages 14+ Two Sessions: June 17 to 20th and July 22 to 25th Time: 10 am - 12:00 pm Cost: $25 Adventure Camp Rafting Fishing Kayaking Pontoon Boat Ride Locations around the Richmond area. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68634-adventure-camp
Latinos de VDSA – Serie de Educación gratis por WhatsApp
Latinos de VDSA – Serie de Educación gratis por WhatsApp
Latinos de VDSA - Serie de Educación gratis por WhatsApp Jueves de 13:00 a 14:00 horas. Vamos a conversar y dar información sobre: * Sección de preguntas y repuestas * Medicaid y SSI * Abuso de niños en el colegio y en general * Educación * Temas legales y mas Información y soporte para los padres' que tienen niños/niñas con syndrome de down. Admisión gratis al grupo VDSA Latinos-Información y soporte por 6 semanas por WhatsApp en espanol. 11, 18, 25 de julio 1, 8 y 15 de agosto https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71965-latinos-de-vdsa-serie-de-educaci-n-gratis-por-whatsapp preguntas contacte a Cheryl Castle ccastle@virginiadsa.org o 804-390-5640
2 events,
Comprehensive Caregiver Support Group (for dual diagnosis)
Comprehensive Caregiver Support Group (for dual diagnosis)
Join other caregivers of an individual with a dual diagnosis as we learn more about Medicaid and waivers from Jamie Colgin of Hanover County Support Services. Virtual on zoom. Registration link to come.
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Dream Catchers - Therapeutic Riding Horseback Riding Lessons with Dream Catchers Amazing opportunity for 5 people to participate in this pilot program. Take riding lessons on 5 Fridays this summer. Weekly lessons at 9 to 10 am on: July 12, 19, 26 and August 2, and August 9! Ages 4 thru adult. Cost: It’s $40 per session or $200 total per person for all 5 sessions. Scholarships available. https://virginiadsa.org/scholarships/ Dream Catchers requires: Participants should arrive 15 minutes early to allow fitting of helmets. Parents and caregivers may stay and watch the lesson on the observation deck. A complete application, including […]
2 events,
Richmond – Spray Park and Playground get together!
Richmond – Spray Park and Playground get together!
Join us for the Spray Park and Playground get together! July 27 and August 10 Twin Hickory Recreation Center Address: 5011 Twin Hickory Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059 10:30 am - Noon Siblings, grandparents and relatives also welcome to join us The area has fence 3/4 of the way around with one entrance and exit Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71186-spray-park-outings
Teen Dinner Out – Richmond
Teen Dinner Out – Richmond
Join teens ages 13 to 20ish for a dinner out at Plaza Azteca in Short Pump Address: 12020 W Broad St, Henrico, VA 23233 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/73357-teen-dinner-out-at-plaza-azteca-short-pump
1 event,
Charlottesville – VA Discovery Museum
Charlottesville – VA Discovery Museum
Virginia Discovery Museum - Charlottesville July 28, 2024 @ 2:00PM — 4:00PM 524 E Main St Charlottesville, VA 22902 All ages welcome. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71640-discovery-museum-summer-2024
0 events,
1 event,
Richmond – Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Richmond – Summer Pop Ups (ages 13+) (RVA)
Summer Pop ups 2024 9:30 - Noon Tuesdays 7/30 All held at Virginia Down Syndrome Office, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Suite 124, Richmond, VA 23239 Ages 13 plus. Siblings invited also. $10 per pop up Weekly Themes Games Galore Movie Day Carnival Fun Painting and Karaoke Mad Science Master Chef Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71112-summer-pop-ups-2024
1 event,
Virtual – School-Inclusion Caregiver Support Group
Virtual – School-Inclusion Caregiver Support Group
Join the discussion this July with other caregivers of school age children with Down syndrome. This group is peer-led and meets virtually each month. Visit the registration link for more details. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/73602-school-inclusion-support-group-july-24
2 events,
Latinos de VDSA – Serie de Educación gratis por WhatsApp
Latinos de VDSA – Serie de Educación gratis por WhatsApp
Latinos de VDSA - Serie de Educación gratis por WhatsApp Jueves de 13:00 a 14:00 horas. Vamos a conversar y dar información sobre: * Sección de preguntas y repuestas * Medicaid y SSI * Abuso de niños en el colegio y en general * Educación * Temas legales y mas Información y soporte para los padres' que tienen niños/niñas con syndrome de down. Admisión gratis al grupo VDSA Latinos-Información y soporte por 6 semanas por WhatsApp en espanol. 11, 18, 25 de julio 1, 8 y 15 de agosto https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71965-latinos-de-vdsa-serie-de-educaci-n-gratis-por-whatsapp preguntas contacte a Cheryl Castle ccastle@virginiadsa.org o 804-390-5640
Richmond – Fishing(all ages)
Richmond – Fishing(all ages)
Come out and join for Fishing! Led by Beyond Boundaries. August 1: 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm All ages welcome to come out for fishing! Location to be announced 1 week before so we can go where the fish are biting. Past locations have been: Shields Lake, Deep Run Park and Crump Park Feel free to bring a camp chair as well. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71127-fishing-led-by-beyond-boundaries
1 event,
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Therapeutic Riding
Williamsburg Dream Catchers - Therapeutic Riding Horseback Riding Lessons with Dream Catchers Amazing opportunity for 5 people to participate in this pilot program. Take riding lessons on 5 Fridays this summer. Weekly lessons at 9 to 10 am on: July 12, 19, 26 and August 2, and August 9! Ages 4 thru adult. Cost: It’s $40 per session or $200 total per person for all 5 sessions. Scholarships available. https://virginiadsa.org/scholarships/ Dream Catchers requires: Participants should arrive 15 minutes early to allow fitting of helmets. Parents and caregivers may stay and watch the lesson on the observation deck. A complete application, including […]
1 event,
Richmond – Pajama and Pizza Party at The Art Factory (Baby to 8 yrs old)
Richmond – Pajama and Pizza Party at The Art Factory (Baby to 8 yrs old)
Pajama and Pizza Party at The Art Factory Join us on: Summer Saturday Nights Aug. 3 5:00 to 7:00 pm Baby to 8 years old Siblings welcome $5 per person includes pizza and drinks (Ind. w/Ds free) Art Factory Play Space, Midlothian (Hwy 288 & Hull St. Art Factory 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian, VA 23112 Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71055-pajama-and-pizza-party-at-the-art-factory
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