Virginia Down Syndrome Association

STEAM - Science "It's in the Reaction"
2025-07-24 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-31 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
New STEAM ‘Science’ Summer Program!
VDSA is thrilled to announce an exciting new STEAM Summer Program that’s packed with action! This 7-week program will dive into the fascinating world of Science, exploding with experiments that are sure to leave each attendee in a state of wonder and awe. From chemistry concoctions to physics phenomena, our instructor Carol Coffin will guide you through a series of hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and ignite a passion for discovery. Register for the whole 7 weeks or pick and choose your reaction – either way, get ready for a summer of scientific exploration and fun!
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/87340-steam-science-it-s-in-the-reaction

Summer Pontoon Boat Ride
2025-07-29 16:00 - 19:00 | Osbourne Landing, 9680 Osborne Tpke, Richmond, VA, 23231
Summer Pontoon Boat Ride
Join VDSA and Beyond Boundaries for Summer Pontoon Boat Rides!
Join us for a relaxing 1 hour 30 minutes cruise down the beautiful James River! We will begin our pontoon adventure from the dock at Osborne Landing and cruise downriver, enjoying wildlife.
Cost: $10.00 per Family
All ages welcome
Families are welcome but space is very limited
Parents must accompany any children under the age of 16 (Life vests are required)
Please ensure your child is comfortable with an almost 1.5 hour sitting boat ride.
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/87059-summer-pontoon-boat-ride

Williamsburg Annual Picnic and Pool Party
2025-08-01 17:00 - 19:00 | Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Highway, Williamsburg, VA, 23185
Williamsburg Picnic and Pool Party
Join us Friday, August 1st from 5 pm to 7 pm for Fun in the Sun. We have the pavilion reserved and we can take turns swimming, splashing on the Splash Pad, or walking the Virginia Capital Trail. lease plan to bring a side dish to share:
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/89275-williamsburg-annual-picnic-and-pool-party

Fredericksburg Boat & Splash Time
2025-08-06 09:30 - 11:00 | Alum Springs Park
Join Fredericksburg VDSA families for outdoor fun at Alum Spring Parks. Play on the playground, build a boat, sail your boat, and splash in the creek! Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet! We will meet at the picnic table closest to the playground. Contact Christy Murphy (540-273-1108) with any questions.
*Boat supplies will be provided*

Don’t forget to have some dry clothes in the car ;)
Click to register!

Fredericksburg Moms' Night Out
2025-08-09 19:00 - 21:00 | CAVA, 3205 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA, 22407
Let’s Meet Up for Moms’ Night Out

Please join fellow Fredericksburg moms a for a night out. Come and connect with other moms, share stories, and enjoy a relaxing evening. It’s a chance to support each other and create some fun!

Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/88622-fredericksburg-moms-and-dads-night-out

Fredericksburg Dads' Night Out
2025-08-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Hacienda El Patron, 2805 Plank Rd, Frederickburg, VA, 2401
Let’s Meet Up for Dads’ Night Out

Please join fellow Fredericksburg dads a for a night out. Come and connect with other dads, share stories, and enjoy a relaxing evening. It’s a chance to support each other and create some fun!

Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/88622-fredericksburg-moms-and-dads-night-out

Art in the Park (ages 2-12) (RVA)
2025-08-23 10:00 - 12:00 | VA
Join us for Art in the Park! Art projects and playing are the best!

August 23 – Deep Run Park, Henrico, 9900 Ridgefield Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23233
September 6 – Crump Park, 3400 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060
September 20 – Huguenot Park, 10901 Robious Rd, Richmond, VA 23235

10:00 am to Noon
Baby to 12 years old
Siblings welcome
Register Here

Virtual - Improvaneer
2025-09-04 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-09-11 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-09-18 19:00 - 20:00, 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 | 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

Art in the Park (ages 2-12) (RVA)
2025-09-06 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-09-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Crump Park, 3400 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA, 23060
Join us for Art in the Park! Art projects and playing are the best!

September 6 – Crump Park, 3400 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060
September 20 – Huguenot Park, 10901 Robious Rd, Richmond, VA 23235

10:00 am to Noon
Baby to 12 years old
Siblings welcome
Register Here

F'burg Picnic in the Park
2025-09-07 16:00 - 18:00 | Kenmore park, 1401 Kenmore Park, Fredericksburg, 22401, United States
Picnic in the Park
Get ready for a fun-filled family evening at Kenmore Park! Join us at Sunday, Sept. 7th, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, for playtime and a picnic! Please bring a picnic food to share and don’t forget your picnic blanket!
Register Here

Fredericksburg - Into the Woods: Nature Walk
2025-09-14 14:00 - 15:30 | VA
Join us for an easy nature walk and scavenger hunt at Motts Run! We will also explore the nature center.
This is designed for the “Bigs” (11+), but we’d love for your whole family to attend!
Register here!

Friendship Club+ Adult Edition
2025-09-14 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-09-21 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-09-28 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-10-05 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-10-12 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-10-19 14:00 - 16:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
VDSA is excited to announce the Friendship Club+ Adult Edition.
Friendship Club+ Social Group is a fun and welcoming place where adults with Down syndrome can connect, learn, and grow together! Each meeting is packed with engaging social skills activities that help participants make a positive first impression, greet others confidently, and practice active listening to build stronger friendships. Participants will explore teamwork through games, projects, and group challenges, learning how to work effectively together and celebrating each other’s strengths. Our group is dedicated to boosting confidence, enhancing personal and social skills, and fostering meaningful relationships in a friendly and supportive environment.
Why join:
– Builds Real-Life Social Skills – Members practice greeting, listening, and teamwork in a safe, supportive space, helping them feel more confident in everyday situations.

– Encourages Independence – Participants learn how to start conversations, join group activities, and make new friends.

– Provides a Safe, Supportive Environment – The group is designed with understanding and patience, ensuring everyone feels valued, included, and respected.

– Promotes Emotional Growth – Activities help members recognize feelings, handle challenges, and resolve disagreements positively.
– Expands Social Circles – Your adult child can meet new people, form meaningful friendships, and enjoy regular opportunities to connect beyond home and family.
Club meeting dates are all Sundays:
September 14, 21, 28 / October 5, 12, 19, 26 / November 2, 9, 16 (Club party)
Cost: The cost of the program is $100 (Scholarships Available)
This program is sponsored by the Community Care Corps/Oasis Institute.

Children's Museum Free Sensory Friendly Night
2025-09-19 17:00 - 19:00, 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

Grow With Me New Parent Lunch
2025-09-20 12:00 - 14:30 | 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 - Parent Night Out
2025-09-20 16:00 - 19:00 | Stumpy’s Hatchet House, 9200 Stony Point Pkwy Store #189, Richmond, VA, 23235
Parents Night Out at Stumpy’s !

Ready for a night out? Join us at Stumpy’s Hatchet House for an unforgettable evening of laughter and relaxation with fellow parents! VDSA members enjoy a special group rate. 🎉 (Admittance and food/beverages at own expense)
Date: Saturday, Saturday, September 20th, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Location: Located in: Stony Point Fashion Park

9200 Stony Point Pkwy Store #189, Richmond

email Kim with questions kwoodbury@virginiadsa.org
REGISTER HERE

Fredericksburg Moms' Night Out
2025-10-17 18:30 - 19:30 | VA
Join us for Moms’ Night Out at Basilico Harrison Crossing
👉 Please RSVP so we can reserve a table for the group.
We can’t wait to see you there!
