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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1 event,
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 […]
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1 event,
Richmond Laser Tag
Richmond Laser Tag
Richmond Laser Tag September 7, 2024 @ 11:00AM — 12:45PM Mission Laser 889 Research Rd, Richmond, VA 23236 $12 per person Includes Laser Tag & PIzza Lunch Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75062-richmond-laser-tag
2 events,
Richmond – Art and Play in the Park, Midlothian
Richmond – Art and Play in the Park, Midlothian
Richmond - Art and Play in the Park, Fall 2024 Sunday, September 8, @ 10:30AM — 12:00PM at Huguenot Park: 10901 Robious Rd Midlothian, VA 23235 Get Directions 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
Williamsburg Mom’s Night Out
Williamsburg Mom’s Night Out
Hope you can join us for a gathering of likeminded moms. Enjoy some laughs and a good meal together.
1 event,
Hybrid Grandparent Support Group
Hybrid Grandparent Support Group
Connect with other grandparents of individuals with Down syndrome! In-person and virtual, this group is peer-led and meets bi-monthly. Monday 9/9 6:30-7:30 pm Register for Zoom link https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74836-grandparent-support-group
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1 event,
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 […]
2 events,
Virtual Comprehensive Caregiver Support Group
Virtual Comprehensive Caregiver Support Group
For caregivers of an individual with a dual diagnosis. Join us this month for a discussion on Medicaid and DD waiver services with Jamie Colgin of the Hanover County Community Services Board. Friday, September 13, 2024 noon-1:30pm Virtual on Zoom Register to receive Zoom link: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74828-comprehensive-caregiver-support-sept-24
Richmond – Summer Painting Classes (Midlothian)
Richmond – Summer Painting Classes (Midlothian)
Summer Painting Classes at The Art Factory Once a month on Fridays 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm $15 per class 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
2 events,
Step UP in Shenandoah Valley
Step UP in Shenandoah Valley
Join us for our 3rd Annual Step UP in Shenandoah Valley! Saturday, September 14th from 10am – 1pm Hillandale Park: 801 Hillandale Ave. Harrisonburg, VA 22801 Join us for a 1k, Family Festival, and Community Resource Fair, kids’ zone, music, exhibitors, food, Silent Auction, and more! Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74091-shenandoah-step-up-for-down-syndrome-in-the-valley-2024Register here
Williamsburg/Newport News Virginia Living Museum
Williamsburg/Newport News Virginia Living Museum
Ages 4 and older are welcome to join VDSA at the Virginia Living Museum. Meet in the private party room and take a self-guided tour. Thanks to the Junior Women's Club of Williamsburg for sponsoring this. Limited to 3o people. Please RSVP. Thank you Williamsburg/Newport News trip to Virginia Living Museum
1 event,
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
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1 event,
Volunteer Academy
Volunteer Academy
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
1 event,
Virtual – School Inclusion Support Group
Virtual – School Inclusion Support Group
Connect with caregivers who speak your language! 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! 7-8 pm on Zoom, register to receive link Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75775-virtual-school-inclusion-support-group-september-2024
2 events,
Virtual – Housing Options presentation by Heart Havens
Virtual – Housing Options presentation by Heart Havens
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association invites parents and caregivers to attend a virtual session led by housing provider Heart Havens. This session will go into the types of housing, such as group homes or sponsored residential settings, and what caregivers should look for and be aware of when helping their loved ones on their residential journey. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74999-virtual-housing-options-presented-by-heart-havens
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 […]
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,
Richmond – River City Inclusive Gym
Richmond – River City Inclusive Gym
River City Inclusive Gym Monthly on Saturdays Dates: Sept. 21, 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. […]
Richmond – Family Dance Party
Richmond – Family Dance Party
Annual Family Dance Party! Pizza and Potluck! Bring a Side dish or dessert! Upon registration, you will receive a sign up genius link. New Location this year! Christ Church Episcopal All ages, siblings, all families invited!! September 21, 2024 @ 6:00PM — 9:00PM= Christ Church Episcopal, 5000 Pouncey Tract Rd.Glen Allen, VA 23059 Register https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75067-richmond-family-dance-fall-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 […]
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3 events,
Fall Horseback Riding
Fall Horseback Riding
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
Volunteer Academy
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
1 event,
Virtual – Transitioning from school to adulthood from All Needs Planning
Virtual – Transitioning from school to adulthood 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
2 events,
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 […]
Virtual – Solo Support Squad September
Virtual – Solo Support Squad September
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. Please register for the Zoom link. https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76549-virtual-solo-support-squad-for-september
3 events,
Pickleball Clinic – Richmond
Pickleball Clinic – Richmond
September 27, 2024 @ 10:00AM — 12:00PM Eastern Time (US & Canada) Woodlake Swim and Racquet Club - 5000 Woodlake Village Pkwy Midlothian, VA 23112
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
Fredericksburg Moms’ Night Out
Fredericksburg Moms’ Night Out
Fredericksburg Moms’ Night Out Sept. 27 at 6:30pm Basilico at Harrison Crossing 7013 Harrison Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76204-fredericksburg-mom-and-dads-night-out-fall-2024
1 event,
Richmond New Parents Luncheon
Richmond New Parents Luncheon
Hello! If you are new the Virginia Down Syndrome Association then we are personally inviting you to the VDSA New Parents' Lunch! As an official thank you! and welcome to our VDSA community, join us for our annual New Parents lunch to celebrate you! We invite you to a glamorous lunch dedicated to parents who have joined the Virginia Down Syndrome Association family in the past year. Come enjoy lunch with us, special gifts, and the opportunity to connect with other parents! This event is open to all caregivers, including but not limited to, parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles, etc. For any […]
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
Fall Horseback Riding
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
Volunteer Academy
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
0 events,
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 […]
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