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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2 events,
SPCA Visit and Pet Adoption Party (stuffed animal adoption)- All ages (RVA)
SPCA Visit and Pet Adoption Party (stuffed animal adoption)- All ages (RVA)
SPCA Visit and Pet Adoption Party (stuffed animal adoption) All ages and siblings welcome April 28, 2024 @ 3:00PM — 4:30PM Richmond SPCA 2519 Hermitage Rd Richmond, Virginia 23220 Each participant will receive one small “adopted” stuffed animal (cat or dog) per child to be taken home in a carrier box that he or she will decorate. Tour to see animals A special visit from one of the dogs Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68628-spca-visit-and-pet-adoption-party-stuffed-animal-adoption
Dia de Campo – Hispanic Family Picnic
Dia de Campo – Hispanic Family Picnic
¡Únete a nosotros para nuestro picnic anual! Estaremos en el mismo lugar que el año pasado - ¡cerca del parque infantil! ¡Ven preparado para la diversión, música, comida y tiempo de juego para los niños! ¡Trae a toda tu familia! Regístrate aquí: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/70209-dia-de-campo-picnic Join us for our annual picnic! We will be in the same location as last year - close to the playground! Come prepared for fun, music, food, and play time for the kids! Bring your entire family! Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/70209-dia-de-campo-picnic
0 events,
1 event,
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group- Virtual April 16, 2024 to May 21 from 7:30PM to 8:30PM Caregiver Support: Adult Siblings Learn and share during this 6 week support group specially designed for, and led by, adult siblings of individuals with Down syndrome. The group will offer a mix of educational opportunities around legal, financial and housing considerations along with coping skills for emotions siblings and caregivers often experience like grief and shame. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68458-adult-sibling-support-group
0 events,
1 event,
Outdoor Adventure Club
Outdoor Adventure Club
Spring 2024 Outdoor Adventure CLUB Ages 13-20 (FunQuest) & 21+ (Fun4Life) April 11 to May 16 - Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Bryan Park 4308 Hermitage Rd Richmond, VA 23227 Led by Beyond Boundaries Co-hosted with Jacob’s Chance Includes: fishing, Leave No Trace,hikes and more outdoor fun! The cost is $25/person We want to include everyone!! If the registration fee would prevent you from attending please use code "VIPguest" to register at no cost. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68320-outdoor-adventure-club
0 events,
2 events,
The Learning Program
The Learning Program
The Learning Program Starts October 7 - 9:00 - 11:00 am -8 monthly sessions held on Saturdays between October 2023 and June 2024. -All sessions will have an in-person and virtual option (June is all virtual). -Shady Grove YMCA - 11255 Nuckols Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059 -Cost: The cost of the program is $260 (in person), $160 (virtual) (Scholarships Available). The Learning Program is an educational program developed by the Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County (DSFOC). It serves as a platform for sharing literacy and math instructional strategies, resources and activities to improve academic outcomes for students with Down syndrome, […]
Art in the Park (ages 2-12) (RVA)
Art in the Park (ages 2-12) (RVA)
Join us for Art in the Park! Art projects and playing are the best! April 20 - Deep Run Park, Henrico, 9900 Ridgefield Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23233 May 4 - Huguenot Park, Midlothian June 8 - Park 365, Richmond 10:00 am to 11:30 am Baby to 12 years old Siblings welcome Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68547-art-in-the-park-spring-summer
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group- Virtual April 16, 2024 to May 21 from 7:30PM to 8:30PM Caregiver Support: Adult Siblings Learn and share during this 6 week support group specially designed for, and led by, adult siblings of individuals with Down syndrome. The group will offer a mix of educational opportunities around legal, financial and housing considerations along with coping skills for emotions siblings and caregivers often experience like grief and shame. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68458-adult-sibling-support-group
0 events,
1 event,
Outdoor Adventure Club
Outdoor Adventure Club
Spring 2024 Outdoor Adventure CLUB Ages 13-20 (FunQuest) & 21+ (Fun4Life) April 11 to May 16 - Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Bryan Park 4308 Hermitage Rd Richmond, VA 23227 Led by Beyond Boundaries Co-hosted with Jacob’s Chance Includes: fishing, Leave No Trace,hikes and more outdoor fun! The cost is $25/person We want to include everyone!! If the registration fee would prevent you from attending please use code "VIPguest" to register at no cost. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68320-outdoor-adventure-club
1 event,
Painting Class at The Art Factory (Homeschoolers & Adults)
Painting Class at The Art Factory (Homeschoolers & Adults)
Painting Class at The Art Factory Creative Canvas at the Art Factory exclusive adaptive painting class for individuals with disabilities and Virginia Down Syndrome Association. This class is opening to individuals with Down syndrome or other disabilities. Once a month on Fridays: May 10. For homeschoolers and Fun4Life ages 21+ $15 per class at The Art Factory. 4810 Market Square Lane, Midlothian VA 23112. A VDSA staff member will be there. Parents and caregivers are welcome to either stay in the class, enjoy the Art Factory's coffee area or drop off and pick up. Seasonal canvas painting for each class. Register […]
2 events,
Putt Putt Golf – Midlothian (Ages 13+)
Putt Putt Golf – Midlothian (Ages 13+)
May 11, 2024 @ 11:00AM — 1:00PM Join for a Saturday for miniature Putt Putt Golf! Ages 13 to 20 (FunQuest) and 21 Plus (Fun4Life) Cost: $10 include putt putt and Hot Dog or a Slice of Pizza 16 oz. Soft Drink PLUS $5.00 game card for the game room 11:00 am to 1:00 pm If you have a sibling that wants to join, they are welcome as well. Putt Putt Fun Center - N. Chesterfield 7901 Midlothian Tpke Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/69258-miniature-golf-at-putt-putt-fun-center
1 event,
Mother’s Day
0 events,
3 events,
Bowling in Colonial Heights
Bowling in Colonial Heights
Join homeschoolers and adult with Ds May 14 $4 per game + shoes. You will pay the bowling alley directly. The Bowling Alley - Colonial Heights 2237 Boulevard Colonial Heights, VA 23834 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68467-bowling-in-colonial-heights
Dad’s Night Out
Dad’s Night Out
Support and share with people that speak your language and know what it's like to parent a child with Down syndrome. We meet at Capital Ale House in Midlothian. There is no registration fee for this event and participants will need to pay for their own meal and drinks.
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group- Virtual April 16, 2024 to May 21 from 7:30PM to 8:30PM Caregiver Support: Adult Siblings Learn and share during this 6 week support group specially designed for, and led by, adult siblings of individuals with Down syndrome. The group will offer a mix of educational opportunities around legal, financial and housing considerations along with coping skills for emotions siblings and caregivers often experience like grief and shame. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68458-adult-sibling-support-group
0 events,
2 events,
Outdoor Adventure Club
Outdoor Adventure Club
Spring 2024 Outdoor Adventure CLUB Ages 13-20 (FunQuest) & 21+ (Fun4Life) April 11 to May 16 - Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Bryan Park 4308 Hermitage Rd Richmond, VA 23227 Led by Beyond Boundaries Co-hosted with Jacob’s Chance Includes: fishing, Leave No Trace,hikes and more outdoor fun! The cost is $25/person We want to include everyone!! If the registration fee would prevent you from attending please use code "VIPguest" to register at no cost. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68320-outdoor-adventure-club
Moms’ Night Out – Mechanicsville/Ashland
Moms’ Night Out – Mechanicsville/Ashland
Join other Moms for a Dinner out for good food and conversation. Everyone pays for their own meal. Thursday, May 16 - Mechanicsville/Ashland at Kreggers Sunday, June 23 - Cary Town at Can Can Brasserie 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,
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
Fredericksburg Moms’ Night Out at Mio Rancho
Fredericksburg Moms’ Night Out at Mio Rancho
Join Fredericksburg area families: May 17 - Moms' Night Out at 7 pm at Mio Rancho, 3400 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407 June 7 - Dads' Night Out at 7 pm at Basilico, 7013 Harrison Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71581-fredericksburg-moms-and-dad-s-night-out-may-june-2024
2 events,
River City Inclusive Gym – Ages 2 to 8
River City Inclusive Gym – Ages 2 to 8
River City Inclusive Gym 3:00 - 3:45 pm - Ages 2 to 8 4:00 - 4:45 pm - Ages 9 to Adult (Adventurers age 6 to 12) FunQuest (ages 13 to 20) and Fun4Life 21+ $10 per class Age groups will be separated as appropriate Sign up for each individually. Choose the dates that work in your schedule. Parents of children ages 2 & 3 are required to be the 1:1 with your child Location is 3 miles from Hwy 288 & Patterson Ave. Dates: May 18, June 15 River City Inclusive Gym class is designed to engage each athlete physically […]
River City Inclusive Gym – 4:00-4:45 pm – Ages 9 to Adult
River City Inclusive Gym – 4:00-4:45 pm – Ages 9 to Adult
4:00 – 4:45 pm – Ages 9 to Adult (Adventurers age 6 to 12) FunQuest (ages 13 to 20) and Fun4Life 21+ $10 per class Age groups will be separated as appropriate Sign up for each individually. Choose the dates that work in your schedule. Location is 3 miles from Hwy 288 & Patterson Ave. Dates: May 18, June 15 River City Inclusive Gym class is designed to engage each athlete physically and mentally. Each class is set in obstacle course format. This provides us optimum opportunity to instruct 1:1 while the whole group stays engaged. Upon entering the gym, the […]
2 events,
Disability Inclusion Day at The Diamond
Disability Inclusion Day at The Diamond
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association is looking forward to joining this event again this year. Friendship Circle of Virginia is excited to host the 3rd Annual Inclusion Day at the Diamond Highlighting Disability Inclusion and Mental Health presented by fas mart, on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 1:35pm Register below: https://friendshipcircleva.org/didd2024/
Caregiver Restorative Yoga
Caregiver Restorative Yoga
Rest, renew and recharge! Don’t miss this special class just for VDSA Caregivers at Humble Haven Yoga. This is a restorative yoga class meant for deep relaxation. NO experience necessary! Just wear something comfortable and come take a deep breath with your community.
1 event,
Grandparent Support Group – In person & Virtual
Grandparent Support Group – In person & Virtual
Grandparent Support Group - In person & Virtual May 20, 2024 @ 6:30PM — 7:30PM Virginia Down Syndrome Association 1504 Santa Rosa Rd Richmond, VA 23229 Come connect with other grandparents of individuals with Down syndrome during this NEW support group through VDSA. You'll enjoy: - peer-led conversation - in-person or virtual option - a safe place to share the joys and challenges of being a grandparent Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/69730-grandparent-support-group
1 event,
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group – Virtual
Adult Sibling Support Group- Virtual April 16, 2024 to May 21 from 7:30PM to 8:30PM Caregiver Support: Adult Siblings Learn and share during this 6 week support group specially designed for, and led by, adult siblings of individuals with Down syndrome. The group will offer a mix of educational opportunities around legal, financial and housing considerations along with coping skills for emotions siblings and caregivers often experience like grief and shame. Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68458-adult-sibling-support-group
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
Family BINGO Night
Family BINGO Night
Family BINGO night May 24, 2024 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PM Virginia Down Syndrome Association 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Richmond, VA 23229 Come for a fun night with prizes! Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/68718-family-bingo-night
0 events,
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: 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,
Memorial Day
0 events,
1 event,
School-Inclusion Caregiver Support Group
School-Inclusion Caregiver Support Group
Join us for the relaunch of this caregiver support group for those with a school-aged child with Down syndrome. This group is peer-led and will take place on Zoom.
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
The Learning Program
The Learning Program
The Learning Program Starts October 7 - 9:00 - 11:00 am -8 monthly sessions held on Saturdays between October 2023 and June 2024. -All sessions will have an in-person and virtual option (June is all virtual). -Shady Grove YMCA - 11255 Nuckols Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059 -Cost: The cost of the program is $260 (in person), $160 (virtual) (Scholarships Available). The Learning Program is an educational program developed by the Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County (DSFOC). It serves as a platform for sharing literacy and math instructional strategies, resources and activities to improve academic outcomes for students with Down syndrome, […]
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