Grow With Me New Parent Lunch
2025-09-20 12:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Bon Air United Methodist Church, 1645 Buford Rd, Richmond, VA, 23235
You are invited to VDSA’s annual New Parents’ Lunch
Grow with Me: A New Parent Lunch – Dedicated to New VDSA Parents and Caregivers Join us for a casual lunch designed just for you—a chance to connect with other new families, share your journey, and grow together in community.

✨ It’s time to celebrate YOU! ✨
Childcare will be provided, with access to both a nursery and a gym on site for the kids. Please email Misti Pollaro if you would like to use childcare and let us know about any allergies.
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/90777-grow-with-me-new-parent-lunch
For questions or more information, please reach out:
Misti Pollaro, Family Care Director
mpollaro@virginiadsa.org – (804) 256-6451

Richmond Respite Event
2025-09-20 16:00 - 19:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
Self-Care Time for Caregivers!
We all love our kids, and we all need some adult time too. Enjoy some time away while VDSA keep your children ages 2 to 12 safe and occupied! This event is open to families of individuals with Down syndrome and their siblings. For our Parent Night, we are accepting participants ages 2 to 12. Email Kim to join the waitlist for this event if registration is closed: kwoodbury@virginiadsa.org.

The VDSA Parents Night Respite Event will take place on Saturday, September 20th from 4 pm- 7 pm at the VDSA’s office (1504 Santa Rosa Rd. Henrico, VA 23294).
REGISTER HERE

Familias Latinas VDSA - Club de Pesca el mes de Septiembre
2025-09-23 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-09-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Deep Run Park, 9900 Ridgefield Pkwy, Henrico, VA, 23233, United States
¡Familias Latinas! Vamos a Pescar el 9,16,23 y 30 de septiembre de 6pm a 730 pm. Suplimos todo lo que necesitan para pescar.
Pueden registrase por separados con el botón registro. Es importante registrar cada persona separada para saber cuántas barras y equipo necesitamos llevar.
Donde: Deep Run Park
Hora: 6pm a 7:30 pm
Cuando: Septiembre 9, 16, 23 y 30
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080D4DA8AC22A3F49-57174739-club#/
Para mas información email ccastle@virginiadsa.org o llamar al 804-390-5640

Virtual - Improvaneer
2025-09-25 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-02 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-09 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-16 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-23 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-30 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-11-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association is excited to start the virtual Improvaneer Method 5 week class again!!
7:00 to 8:00 pm

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 and family.
In each class we will gradually build in real world scenarios by mostly playing games that imitate various jobs, situations, and connections in real life.
Each week parents will receive an outline of what is coming up in the class.
After the class, emails will be sent to with ‘homeprov’ reminders.

Note from Rob Snow – CEO and Creator
The Improvaneer Method Way focuses on supporting our mission while maintaining immense respect, admiration, and support for the individuals utilizing the program. At all times, we will create a positive learning atmosphere that incorporates fun, humor, and discipline into the achievement and ultimate practice of this skill.
Learn more:
https://www.theimprovaneermethod.com/
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/90605-virtual-improvaneer-fall-2025

VDSA - Charlottesville Family Meet-up
2025-10-04 08:00 - 10:00 | Get Air Trampoline Park, 1005 Gardens Blvd, Charlottesville, VA, 22901
Charlottesville Family Meet-Up

Join us for Sensory & Special Needs Time at Get Air Trampoline Park this October!
Let’s meet during Get Air’s dedicated Sensory and Special Needs Time, held on the first Saturday of each month. This special session offers a more comfortable environment and a reduced rate of just $15 for a child/adult and their companion to jump and play for 2 full hours.
The staff at Get Air are also open to exploring additional times in the future if there’s enough interest from our families—so your participation matters!
We hope to see you there for some fun and active play in a sensory-friendly setting!
👉 LINK: Family Meet-Up

Children's Museum Free Sensory Friendly Night
2025-10-17 17:00 - 19:00 | Children’s Museum Chesterfield, 6629 Lake Harbour Dr, Midlothian, VA, 23112
Children’s Museum Free Sensory-Friendly Night
All ages are welcome at the Children’s Museum’s Free Sensory Friendly Night.

A cool down room will be available and sensory supports provided.
Sibling welcome!
REGISTER HERE

Charlottesville Family Fall Social Meetup
2025-10-18 12:30 - 15:00 | Eastwood Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd, Charlottesville, VA, 22902
Hey VDSA families from Charlottesville and nearby areas!
We’re excited to invite you to a casual family meetup at the beautiful Eastwood Winery! Join us for a relaxing afternoon with fellow families. You’ll have the opportunity to mingle with other parents, make new friends, and watch your kids play together in a safe and welcoming environment.
Saturday, October 18 at 12:30 – 3:00 PM
REGISTER HERE: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/92045-charlottesville-family-fall-social-meetup

VDSA Family Halloween Bash
2025-10-24 18:00 - 21:00 | Christ Church Episcopal, 5000 Pouncey Tract Rd, Glen Allen, Virginia, 23059
VDSA Family Halloween Bash

Let’s BOO-gie and share a feast!
You’re invited to a Halloween Potluck Dance Party on Friday, October 24th, at 6:00 PM
Christ Church Episcopal – 5000 Pouncey Tract Rd, Glen Allen 23060
Come dressed in your most inventive disguises (optional) and bring a spooky dish to share for our feast. We’ll be dancing the night away to some hauntingly good tunes.”
Please register by October 22nd if you dare to join us!.

Register Here: Halloween Bash
Sign-up to bring a dish here: Spooky Dish

Harvest and Hooves Family Farm Day
2025-10-25 14:00 - 16:00
Come on down to Steadfast Trail and enjoy some baby goat snuggling, horsemanship, and pumpkin decorating!

Please wear closed toed shoes and clothes that can get dirty!

RSVP here!

Williamsburg - Halloween Dance Class
2025-10-26 13:00 - 14:00 | Jazzercize Williamsburg, 455 Merrimac Trl, Williamsburg, VA, 23185
Williamsburg – Halloween Dance Class

Have some fun learning monster moves and dancing to Halloween-themed tunes like Monster Mash, Thriller and more! This class is being led by VDSA volunteer and Jazzercize instructor, Jessie. This event is free for VDSA members and family.
All ages welcome & siblings are welcome to join in the fun. Costumes are optional. No weapons or masks for this event please. Parents, please remain onsite and join in the fun!

Resister Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/92084-halloween-dance-class

Tri-Cities Friendsgiving
2025-11-14 18:00 - 20:00
Tri-cities Friendsgiving
Join us for a potluck to celebrate our friends at our Friendsgiving.
– We’ll provide the Ham and Drinks –
Central Baptist Church, 6405 Courthouse Rd, VA 23833
Time: 6 – 8 pm
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/94022-friendsgiving
Sign up here to let us know what you are bringing: 2025 Volunteer Group: Tri-Cities Friendsgiving Potluck Registration

Little's of F'burg Play Gym Playdate
2025-11-15 09:30 - 11:00
Come enjoy some indoor gym playtime and social skills practice! Limited spots available!
This event is for ages 10 and under. Siblings 10 and under are welcome to play with ticket purchase.
Cost:
$5/individual with DS
$10/sibling
Reserve your spots today! Click HERE to sign up!

This is NOT a drop and go event.

Richmond - Indoor Rock Climbing
2025-11-15 10:00 - 12:00 | Peak Experiences RVA, 1375 Overbrook Rd, Richmond, VA, 23220
Join us for a fun session of indoor rock climbing led by Beyond Boundaries. No experience is necessary! Cost: $10 per individual with Down syndrome.
All ages! Maximum number of climbers: 12!
November 15th 10:30 am – Noon
Peak Experiences RVA
1375 Overbrook Rd, Richmond, VA 23220
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/82481-rock-climbing-with-beyond-boundaries

"Bigs" of F'burg Art Time!
2025-11-15 13:30 - 14:30
Let’s get creative! Join us at Art Time 4 Kids for a special art class! Designed for ages 11+
Siblings (11yrs+) welcome

Cost: $15
Reserve your spot today!

Science Museum of Virginia Minds of All Kinds (All ages)
2025-11-21 16:00 - 20:00 | Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W Broad St, Richmond, VA, 23220
Meet up with friends from VDSA at the Science Museum

Minds of All Kinds event on Friday, November 21st from 4pm-8pm!

Enjoy the museum on this free night at the Science Museum.

The museum will be making exhibits sensory friendly on this evening, and
staff will be available to support and assist families.

You must register with the museum at this link which takes you
to the Science Museum of Virginia webpage:

No charge
For all ages!! Siblings welcome!
Register here: Minds of All Kinds

Teen Movie Night
2025-11-30 17:45 - 21:00 | Regal West Tower, Regal West Tower, Richmond, Virginia, 23294
Join Friendship Circle of Virginia and Virginia Down Syndrome Association for a Teen Movie night on Sunday, November 30th as we come together to watch the movie Zootopia 2!
Arrival Time: 5:45 PM, Movie Start Time: 6:15 PM
Regal West Tower – 8998 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23294
This event is for teens 13+. 1 Parent/Caregiver will attend free of charge.
Register Here: Teen Movie Night

VDSA - Charlottesville Family Meet-up
2025-12-06 08:00 - 10:00 | Get Air Trampoline Park, 1005 Gardens Blvd, Charlottesville, VA, 22901
Charlottesville Family Meet-Up

Join us for Sensory & Special Needs Time at Get Air Trampoline Park
Let’s meet during Get Air’s dedicated Sensory and Special Needs Time, held on the first Saturday of each month. This special session offers a more comfortable environment and a reduced rate of just $11-$15 (depending on height) for a child/adult and their companion to jump and play for 2 full hours.
The staff at Get Air are also open to exploring additional times in the future if there’s enough interest from our families—so your participation matters!
We hope to see you there for some fun and active play in a sensory-friendly setting!
👉 LINK: Family Meet-Up

Ornament Decorating Party, Manchester Moose Lodge, Richmond
2025-12-07 00:00 - 14:00 | Manchester Moose Lodge, 11110 Trade Rd N, Chesterfield, VA, 23236
Ornament Decorating Party hosted and sponsored by the Manchester Moose Lodge
11110 Trade Rd, North Chesterfield, Sunday, December 7th from 12:00 – 2:00 pm
Casual pizza lunch, decorate ornaments, see Santa, and everyone gets a gift too!
The whole family is welcome, including siblings and grandparents!
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/78463-holiday-party-manchester-moose-lodge-dec-2024

Tri-cities Holiday Party
2025-12-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Central Baptist Church, 6405 Courthouse Rd, Church Rd, VA, 23833
Tri-cities Holiday Party
December 7, 2025 @ 2:00PM — 4:00PM
Central Baptist Church: 6405 Courthouse Rd Church Rd, VA 23833

Ham as main dish will be provided!
Bring a salad, side, dessert or drinks to share!
Join for fun! Make crafts! Plus there may be a visit from Santa or one of his elves!
Individuals with Ds get gifts and siblings under the age of 10!

SIGN UP TO BRING: salad, side dish for adult and/kids, gluten free items, dessert and drinks.
Register for Party Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/94022-tri-cities-holiday-party
If you have any questions, please feel to contact Mindi Freds, Tri-Cities Coordinator
mindi_freds@yahoo.com or 217-892-2932

Hampton Roads Holiday Party
2025-12-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Redeemer Church, 508 Centerville Turnpike N, Chesapeake, VA, 23320
Celebrate the Holidays with your newly formed VDSA Hampton Roads Family!
Come one come all to a fun festive holiday party with dinner, a cookie exchange, dancing, and dreidel games! There will also be a visit from a jolly old elf from the North Pole. A place to take pictures with Santa will be available.
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/94086-hampton-roads-holiday-party

Richmond Annual Holiday Party
2025-12-13 08:30 - 13:00 | Bon Air Baptist Church, 2531 Buford Rd, Richmond, VA, 23235
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association’s Annual Breakfast Holiday Party is coming up!
EMAIL kwoodbury@virginiadsa.org to be put on waiting list. Always have cancellations.
Two seatings
8:30 am – 10:30 am and 11:00AM — 1:00PM
Bon Air Baptist Church 2531 Buford Rd, Richmond, VA 23235
Both seatings include:

Pictures with Santa, crafts & games
Quiet Sensory Room
All individuals with Down Syndrome and siblings under the age of 10 will receive gifts!
Two (2) adults who live in your household or care for your loved one (outside the household) are invited
Seating is limited due to capacity.
If you need an accommodation for an attendee OR to add more than two (2) adult family members who live in your household, please send an email to Kimberly Woodbury, kwoodbury@virginiadsa.org to discuss further.
Event is Free
Buffet Breakfast served of hashbrown casserole, monkey bread, scrambled eggs, pork bacon, sausage links, roasted breakfast potatoes, toasted English, muffins, bagels with cream cheese, mini muffins and fruit and nut charcuterie board.
If your child has food allergies, you are welcome to bring food for them to eat at your table.

VDSA is thrilled to sponsor this year’s Holiday Party! If you need to cancel, please do so ASAP so we can offer your spot to someone on the waitlist. Let’s make it a night to remember!

RSVP First Seating: First Seating 8:30 – 10:30 AM
RSVP Second Seating: Sesond Seating 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Fredericksburg Cookies with Santa
2025-12-14 14:00 - 16:00
Pictures with Santa, cookie decorating, live music, crafts & more
All individuals with Down Syndrome and siblings under the age of 10 will receive gifts!
Seating is limited due to capacity.
Event is Free

RSVP here by Dec. 9th!

Williamsburg/Peninsula Holiday Party
2025-12-14 15:00 - 17:00 | 201 Charter House Lane Williamsburg, 201 Charter House Lane, Williamsburg, 23188, United States
Join the Virginia Down Syndrome Association Williamsburg/Peninsula for a fun afternoon of good food, play time, holiday crafts, cookie decorating and hopefully a visit from THE BIG GUY himself. Gifts provided for all individuals with Down Syndrome, as well as siblings aged 10 & under. Wear festive attire!! There is a playground next to the clubhouse so hopefully the weather will cooperate.

Main entree will be provided by VDSA please bring a side dish or a dessert to share. Contact Williamsburg Community Coordinator for any questions at scleary@virginiadsa.org

REGISTER HERE
