Virginia Down Syndrome Association

Richmond - LEAP Training (Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention)
2026-03-04 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association is pleased to offer LEAP (Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention) training for interested individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities ages 18+.
About LEAP:
Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention (LEAP) is an evidence-based curriculum that provides training about healthy relationships and abuse prevention to groups of adults and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Participants Learn About:

Healthy, confusing, and unhealthy relationships
Asking permission before touching
Different ways to say “no”
Identifying feelings and physical signs of being comfortable or uncomfortable
How to get help
…and more!

Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/94771-leap-training
LEAP training will occur on the following dates and times at the VDSA Office (1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA 23229):

Wednesday, February 11th – 10:00am-11:30am
Wednesday, February 18th – 10:00am-11:30am
Wednesday, February 25th – 10:00am-11:30am
Wednesday, March 4th – 10:00am-11:30am

Presenter Bios:

Emily’s bio:

Emily Dodge lives in Richmond, Virginia. She works at Hope Church in childcare and is a graduate of the Longwood Life program. Emily spends her time going to her river house, crafting and cooking. She loves to dance competitively, hang out with her friends, attend concerts and WWE events, and spend time with her fiancé, to whom she recently became engaged. She is excited to teach LEAP and talk about healthy relationships.

Molly’s bio:

Molly is currently retired after over 30 years with the VCU Partnership for People with Disabilities, a university center for excellence in developmental disabilities. She earned her Master’s degree in Special Education from SUNY Buffalo and began her career as a special educator for children with significant support needs and autism. Later, as a parent of a child who received special education services, she has lived experiences on both sides of the IEP table.
Molly coordinated Virginia’s Positive Behavior Support Project (PBS) was endorsed as a facilitator of Positive Behavior Support in 2007. She co-leads Home and Community PBS, a network of the International Association of PBS. For more than 20 years, she directed three projects that assist children and adults with disabilities with issues surrounding violence, abuse, sexual assault, and neglect. Together with a team of families and professionals, she helped to develop and research LEAP: Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention, an evidence-based intervention for adults with IDD. In addition to published academic journals. Molly is a regular contributor to Parenting Special Needs Magazine. Molly is certified trainer for Person-Centered Thinking and Stewards of Children. Her goal is to help everyone enjoy healthy relationships.

Virtual - Communication Skills Groups for Teens and Adults
2026-03-04 15:30 - 17:00, 2026-03-18 15:30 - 17:00, 2026-04-08 15:30 - 17:00, 2026-04-22 15:30 - 17:00 | Zoom
VDSA is pleased to offer virtual Communication Skill groups thanks to a partnership with Longwood University. Teens ages 13-18 and adults 19 and over are invited to join Longwood University speech therapy students in conversation! This is a low-pressure, conversational style program where you’ll connect with each other and have a great time! This event is free of charge.
The Adults group will meet from 3:30pm until 4:15pm and our teens group will meet from 4:15pm until 5:00pm.
Sessions will take place via Zoom on February 11th, February 25th, March 4th, March 18th, April 8th, and April 22nd.
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/96962-virtual-building-communication-skills

Richmond - Relationships & Dating Educational Series
2026-03-05 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-12 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-19 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-26 18:00 - 20:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association plans to offer an 8 week educational series presented by Ame Branam, Education Director, and Rachel Goldman, OTS at Virginia Commonwealth University. Both presenters have completed sexuality educator training through Elevatus Training. We have class offerings for self-advocates in high school and beyond. Sessions will be offered at the Virginia Down Syndrome Association office at 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA 23229.
Registration price is $10.00 for the full 8-week session!
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/95014-richmond-relationships-dating-educational-series
Class Dates/Times:

Session 1: Thursday, February 5th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm
Session 2: Thursday, February 12th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm
Session 3: Thursday, February 19th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm
Session 4: Thursday, February 26th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm
Session 5: Thursday, March 5th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm
Session 6: Thursday, March 12th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm
Session 7: Thursday, March 19th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm
Session 8: Thursday, March 26th High School 6-7pm; Young Adult 7-8pm

Virtual - Improvaneer
2026-03-05 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-12 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-19 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-26 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/95223-virtual-improvaneer-winter-2026

River City Inclusive Gym - Henrico/Richmond - Ages 9 to adult
2026-03-07 16:00 - 16:45 | River City Inclusive Gym, 11248 Patterson Ave, Henrico, VA, 23238, United States
River City Inclusive Gym – Winter/Spring 2025 Ages 8 to adult

River City Inclusive Gym: 11248 Patterson Ave Henrico, VA 23238

Monthly on Saturdays
Jan. 10, Feb. 7 and March 7
4:00-4:45 pm – Ages 9 and up
$15 per session
Space is limited and Siblings welcome
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/95456-river-city-inclusive-gym-winter-spring-2026-ages-2-to-8-to

Fun4Life Lunch Bunch
2026-03-09 11:30 - 13:00 | Ay Mama Mexican Grill, 9809 W Broad St, Glen Allen, VA, 23060
Fun4Life Lunch Bunch For adults ages 21 and older
Get ready for a fantastic afternoon of food, friends, and fun with VDSA at Ay Mama Mexican Grill! Join us for a quick bite alongside your VDSA Fun4Life buddies and catch up with friends old and new and indulge in your favorite Mexican dishes. We can’t wait to see you there!
Each guest is responsible for their individual order and payment.
Monday, March 9th at 11:30 am
Ay Mama Mexican Grill 9809 W Broad St, Glen Allen, VA 23060
Parents welcome to stay at table nearby.
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/98543-fun4life-lunch-bunch

Teen Game Day
2026-03-15 14:00 - 16:00 | Friendship Circle Offices, 212 N. Gaskins Rd, Richmond, VA, 23238
You’re Invited to Teen Game Day!

Hosted by VDSA and Friendship Circle of Virginia
Date: Sunday, March 15th, from 2 pm – 4 pm
Location: Friendship Circle Offices: 212 N. Gaskins Rd Richmond
For ages 13+

Sign Up Here: Teen Game Day

VDSA Because We Can Volunteer Program
2026-03-18 10:30 - 23:30 | Discovery Village, 2422 University Park Blvd, Henrico, VA, 23229
SELF-ADVOCATED NEEDED!!VDSA is looking for dedicated individuals to join us in our mission to make a positive impact in our community.
We are thrilled to be collaborating with our friends at Discovery Village for a morning of art & Imagination!
For ages 18+
Date: Wednesday, March 18th, from 10:30 – 11:30 am
Location: Discovery Village West End,2422 University Park Blvd, Henrico

Sign up at website link on the right: https://virginiadsa.salsalabs.org/juniorvolunteeracademyfall2022

Virtual - Va-LEND Information Session
2026-03-20 18:00 - 18:30 | Zoom
Learn with Va-LEND!

Join us for a free, virtual information on March 20th at 6pm to learn all about Virginia LEND!
Virginia LEND is a program that helps health professionals, people with disabilities and their families learn how to be leaders. People from all different experiences and professions learn together about how they can provide person- and family-centered services for children and adults with disabilities. People with disabilities and family members learn from the professionals and the professionals learn from people with disabilities and family members so they can work better together.

Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/98787-va-lend-information-session

Va-LEND stands for Virginia Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities. It was created to improve the health and lives of children and adults with disabilities and their family members. Trainees complete classes, clinical observations, policy activities, and a family mentorship experience. Over the course of the program, trainees work on their leadership project which they present at the end of the program. Trainees complete 150 or 300 hours of content. This is done both in classes and outside of class.
For more information about Va-LEND check out our website.
Ready to submit an application? Complete this form: Application
The priority due date is April 15, 2026 and the final due date is May 15, 2026.
If you have any questions, need help completing this application or need an alternate format of the application please feel free to contact us at (804-828-0073) or at valend@vcu.edu. The Va-LEND application is available as a pdf form, as well as an online form. Please use the format that is most accessible to you.

Richmond World Down Syndrome BIG PLAY Party Day 2026!
2026-03-21 14:00 - 17:00 | Bon Air United Methodist Church, 1645 Buford Rd, Richmond, VA, 23235
World Down Syndrome BIG PLAY Party!

Join us for the World Down Syndrome BIG PLAY Party, an unforgettable afternoon of non-stop fun, friends, and excitement. Featuring the one and only DJ Tom spinning the hottest tracks and running an unforgettable Karaoke session that will bring out the rockstar in you, and a gym overflowing with a vast array of interactive Retro Games that will transport you back in time to the good old days! There’s something for every age and interest!
Saturday, March 21st from 2:00 – 5:00 PM

Bon Air United Methodist Church: 1645 Buford Rd Richmond, VA 23235

Sign Up Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/98328-world-down-syndrome-big-play-day

Richmond - Nate's Promise Art in and With Nature
2026-04-05 16:00 - 17:30, 2026-04-12 16:00 - 17:30, 2026-04-19 16:00 - 17:30 | VCU, 822 W Broad St, Richmond, VA, 23220
Nate’s Promise Art in and With Nature

Nate’s Promise is hosting a 4-week art course for people with congenital conditions that affect their cognitive and motor capabilities taught by VCU Art students and Nate’s Promise members.
Date: Sundays, April 5 – April 26
Time: 4 pm-5:30 pm
Location: 822 W Broad St (on VCU campus).
Art in and With Nature is an inclusive art program for people with diverse learning and sensory needs. Participants will explore nature through guided, hands-on art activities using natural materials, while developing creativity, confidence, and self-expression in a supportive, small-group environment.
The objectives of the course:
– Provide an inclusive and creative experience
– Offer a safe space to promote self-expression through art
– Foster a sense of accomplishment and pride through completing art projects
– Develop foundational art skills and vocabulary
Participants must be between the ages of 13 and 21 years. All participants under the age of 18 will need a parent, caregiver, or support person to stay for the entire class.

Sign Up Here: Nate’s Promise Art in and With Nature

321Go! Building Healthy Habits!
2026-04-09 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-04-16 18:00 - 19:00 | VDSA Activity Room, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd #124, Richmond, VA 23229, United States
321Go! Let’s Get Healthy!

Event Description:

321Go! Building Healthy Habits is an eight-week program designed by the National Down Syndrome Society to promote healthy lifestyle choices in physical activity, balanced nutrition, and emotional wellness among adults with Down syndrome and their families. Every VIP/Parent, Sibling, Guardian Team will receive an NDSS 321 Go Kit with your registration.
Program Dates: 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28
We are excited to welcome our program instructor, Rachel Berry! Rachel Berry Rachel Berry is a playful, welcoming, and down-to-earth movement teacher with over 10 years of experience in the fitness and wellness world. Beginning her wellness journey teaching indoor cycling, she expanded into group exercise, and is currently both a teacher and the Director of Operations at Humble Haven Yoga. Passionate about movement, breathwork, and mindful living, Rachel’s mission is to share yoga as a tool for transformation—helping people learn how to make choices from a centered place, and to cultivate awareness that shapes our everyday lives.
Cost: Program cost- $120 (per parent/child team)
All abilities welcome! Must be 18 or over to participate and be accompanied by an 18+ parent/sibling/guardian.

Sign Up Here: 1321Go! Building Health Choices

Virtual - Improvaneer
2026-04-09 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-16 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!

Sign Up Here: Virtual Improvaneer

Richmond - Painting Classes at The Art Factory, Spring 2026
2026-04-10 12:30 - 13:30 | Art Factory, , 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian, VA, 23112
Painting Class at the Art Factory is the Second Friday of Each Month
12:30 to 1:30 pm
$20 per person
Open to All Friends with Disabilities
Dates: April 10th & May 8th
Art Factory, 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/99023-richmond-painting-classes-at-the-art-factory-spring-2026

Richmond - Family-Friendly Spring Nature Walk
2026-04-12 10:30 - 12:00 | Huguenot Park, 10901 Robious Rd, Richmond, VA, 23235
Join VDSA for a family-friendly Spring Nature Walk!
Sunday, April 12th at Huguenot Park
10901 Robious Rd, Richmond, VA 23235.
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Will end with snacks and drinks / All ages and siblings welcome!
No charge
Sign up here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/84006-richmond-nature-hikes-april-6

Led by Beyond Boundaries

Richmond - Because We Can Helping Hands
2026-04-15 14:00 - 15:00 | Discovery Village, 2422 University Park Blvd, Henrico, VA, 23229
SELF-ADVOCATED NEEDED!!VDSA is looking for dedicated individuals to join us in our mission to make a positive impact in our community.
We are thrilled to be collaborating with our friends at Discovery Village for a morning of art & Imagination!
For ages 18+
Date: Wednesday, April 15th, from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Location: Discovery Village West End,2422 University Park Blvd, Henrico

Sign up at website link on the right: https://virginiadsa.salsalabs.org/juniorvolunteeracademyfall2022

Richmond - Teen and Young Adult Pajama Movie Night
2026-04-18 17:00 - 20:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
You’re Invited to our Teen and Young Adult Pajama Movie Night!

Get ready for a cozy night in! Join us for a Pajama Movie Night filled with snacks, and good company in your pajamas! Don’t forget your pillow and blanket!!
Date: Saturday, April 18, from 5 pm – 8 pm
Location: VDSA’s Activity Room – 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124
For ages 13+ / Cost: $5.00
If registration fees are a barrier to participation, please utilize code VIPPajNgt during registration
Sign up here: Pajama Movie Night
