Adventure Camp Day 4
2025-07-17 10:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Variious Richmond Locations
Summer Adventure Camp
Two sessions: 4 Day Camp
Two Sessions: June 23rd to 26th and July 14th to 17th
10 am – 1:00 pm
Kayaking – Pontoon/Fishing – Indoor Climbing – Rafting
Ages 14+
$50
Scholarship available! Apply by contacting Kimberly Woodbury at kwoodbury@virginiadsa.org
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/87490-richmond-adventure-camp-2025

STEAM - Science "It's in the Reaction"
2025-07-17 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-24 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-31 14:00 - 16:00 | 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

Richmond - Fishing led by Beyond Boundaries
2025-07-20 10:00 - 11:30 | Three Lakes Park, 400 Sausiluta Dr, Richmond, VA, 23227
Summer Fishing!

All ages welcome to come out for fishing!
Feel free to bring a camp chair as well.
Location: Three Lakes Park @ 400 Sausiluta Dr, Richmond, VA 23227

Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/88586-richmond-fishing-led-by-beyond-boundaries

Flying Squirrels Baseball Game
2025-07-20 17:05 - 20:00 | The Diamond in Richmond:, Arthur Ashe Ctr Arthur Ashe Ctr, Richmond, VA, 23230
You are cordially invited to join VDSA on Sunday, July 20, as we enjoy an evening of baseball courtesy of Synergy Technical, who have generously donated tickets.
To secure your tickets, please register each person needing tickets. Please limit to individuals with Down syndrome & their immediate family.
Tickets must be picked up at the VDSA office located at1504 Santa Rosa Rd #124, Richmond, VA 23229 no later than Thursday, July 17th at 5 pm.
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/89222-flying-squirrels-baseball-game

Richmond - Summer Employment Academy
2025-07-21 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-23 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-28 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-30 09:00 - 13:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
The Summer Employment Academy is a 4-week summer program in which high school students with Down syndrome have on-site career experiences along with in-class soft skills employment training. This program is open to any student with Down syndrome aged 16 and up.
The Richmond classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays in July at the VDSA Office. Students are in-class two days per week and on a job site two days per week. The student rotates through 4 different job sites for an individualized and well-rounded career exploration experience. While at the job site, they practice the soft skills they are learning in class while working with a job coach. Class size is maximum eight students with Down syndrome.
For more information, contact Ame Branam, Education Director, at abranam@virginiadsa.org.

Richmond – Painting Class
2025-07-25 12:30 - 13:30, 2025-08-08 12:30 - 13:30 | Art Factory, , 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian, VA, 23112
Every other Friday During the Summer Months
12:30 to 1:30 pm
$15 per person
Open to All Friends with Disabilities
Dates: June 13 & 27 – July 11 & 25 – August 8 & 22
Art Factory, 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/83873-richmond-painting-classes-at-the-art-factory-summer-2025

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

Tri-cities Pool Party
2025-08-10 16:00 - 20:00 | Battlefield Park Swim and Raquet Club, 3108 Homestead Dr., Petersburg, 23805, United States
Join VDSA at Battlefield Pool for some swimming, feast, fun and friends. Bring a dish to pass. Hot dogs and drinks will be provided. Individual with Down Syndrome is free. All others in the party are $5. See you on August 10, 2025 from 4-8.
Have questions? Contact mfreds@virginiadsa.org or 217-892-2932
Register HERE!

Pajama Movie Night Party
2025-08-23 17:00 - 20:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
You’re Invited to a 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, August 23rd from 5:00 – 8:00 pm
Location: VDSA’s Activity Room – 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124
For ages 13+ / Cost: $5.00
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 | 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

Williamsburg - Back-to-School Bowling 2025
2025-09-07 15:30 - 17:30 | Twin Pin Bowling, 2057 Lebanon Church Rd, Newport News, 23691, United States
Join the Greater Williamsburg Community for Back to school Bowling at Twin Pin Bowling Center in Yorktown next to the entry gate of Yorktown Naval Weapons Station.
1976 Lebanon Church Road
Newport News, VA

Register HERE
All ages welcome. Please register for each family member attending. Limited to 40 attendees.
No cost to bowl. No food or drinks allowed but items will be available to purchase!
Sunday, September 7th, 3:30 – 5:30 PM.
Made possible by the Junior Women’s Club of Williamsburg!
Any questions, please contact Williamsburg Community Coordinator, Stephanie Cleary – scleary@virginiadsa.org

Richmond: I'm Determined Self-Advocacy Training & Global Ambassador Training
2025-09-13 09:30 - 14:30 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
Practice Self-Determination Skills for School, Work, and Life!
Join us for the Virginia Department of Education’s I’m Determined self-advocacy program at VDSA. Self-advocates will attend the workshop from 9:30am until 12:30pm. A pizza lunch will be provided for all!

In addition – Thanks to a grant from the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, VDSA is pleased to offer Ambassador Training! In this 90 minute session, you will learn how to be engaging with donors and speaking at fundraising and advocacy events. Attendees for both I’m Determined & Ambassador Training are eligible to be paid VDSA representatives at upcoming outreach and fundraising events!
Both sessions will be held on Saturday, September 13th. The schedule is as follows:

9:30am-12:30pm – I’m Determined
12:30pm-1:00pm – Pizza lunch!
1:00pm-2:30pm – Global Ambassador Training

Interested individuals can elect to only attend I’m Determined or Global Ambassador training. Participants are eligible to attend only Global Ambassador Training if you have already attended I’m Determined.

Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/91375-i-m-determined-self-advocacy-training-global-ambassador-training

Contact Ame Branam, Education Director, at abranam@virginiadsa.org for more information. Individuals with Down syndrome ages 16+ are welcome. This program is in-person at the VDSA Richmond office but families from all Virginia localities are welcome.

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 | 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 | 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

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

Richmond Laser Tag
2025-10-04 11:00 - 13:00 | Mission Laser, 889 Research Rd, Richmond, VA, 23236
Richmond Laser Tag
October 4, 2025 @ 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
