Virginia Down Syndrome Association

Virtual - Improvaneer
2025-10-23 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-30 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-11-06 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | 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 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

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

Friendship Club+ Adult Edition
2025-10-26 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-11-02 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-11-09 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-11-16 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.

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

Richmond - Arts and Craft Workshop
2025-11-19 10:00 - 12:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
You’re Invited to our New Monthly Arts and Craft Workshop
Enjoy creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind DIY art pieces that are tailored to each individual’s unique abilities and skill levels.
Date: Wednesday, November 19th, from 10 am – Noon
Location: VDSA’s Activity Room – 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124
For ages 18+ / Cost: $5.00
Register Here: Fall Mason Jar Centerpiece

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

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

Richmond Respite Event
2025-12-20 14:00 - 17:00 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
Respite Event in Richmond
“Get your last-minute holiday shopping done while your kids enjoy a fantastic afternoon with our trained staff and volunteers. We are hosting a fun-filled event for self-advocates and their siblings. It’s a win-win for everyone!”

When: December 20, 2025
Time: 2pm to 5pm
Where: VDSA Office, 1504 Santa Rosa Road Suite 124

REGISTER HEREf

Tri-Cities New Years Playdate Party
2026-01-02 17:00 - 19:00 | Ragsdale Community Center, 20916 Old School Rd., McKenney, VA, 23872
Tri-Cities New Years Playdate Party
Lets bring in the New Year together!! Let’s play and celebrate!!

Join us at Ragsdale Community Center for a fun time of games and play.
Friday, January 2nd from 5-7 pm
Ragsdale Community Center: 20916 Old School Rd. McKenney, VA 23872
Bring a snack to share
Register Here: New Years Playdate Party

Dads’ Night Out
2026-01-08 18:00 - 20:00 | Capital Ale House, 13831 Village Place Drive, Midlothian, VA, 23118, United States
Richmond Area Dads’ Night Out!!
Connect with other Dads in the greater Richmond area who understand your journey!
Share and learn during this social time with other Dads.

Thursday, January 8th, 6PM

Capital Ale House Midlothian
13831 Village Place Dr, Midlothian, VA 23114

RSVP to Jan Rychtar, ary60249@gmail.com

Moms’ Night Out Paint Party
2026-01-13 19:00 - 21:00 | The Art Factory, 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian, VA, 23112
You are invited to a Mom’s night out at The Art Factory!

Tuesday, January 13, 7 – 9 PM
4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian, VA 23112
$27 per person (Covers all necessary supplies and instruction)

Treat yourself to an evening designed just for YOU! Our Moms’ Night Out Painting Class is a relaxed and social event where you can unwind, laugh, and explore your creative side-no experience needed.

Register Here: Moms’ Night Out Paint Party

Virtual - Improvaneer
2026-01-15 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-01-22 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-01-29 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-05 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-12 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-26 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

202 Disability Expo, Richmond
2026-01-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Dewey Gottwald Center, 2301 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA, 23220
VDSA will be attending the 3rd Annual Disability Expo at the Dewey Gottwald Center.
Friendship Circle of Virginia is proud to present the 3rd Annual Disability Expo, generously sponsored by QTS Data Centers and the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond! The expo will feature non-profit organizations and businesses that provide services and resources for individuals across the lifespan from infants through senior citizens and their families.
Click for more Information and to Register!

Science Museum of Virginia with Friendship Circle (All ages)
2026-01-25 14:00 - 16:00 | Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W Broad St, Richmond, VA, 23220
VDSA is joining Friendship Circles’ January Birthday Circle at the Science Museum of Virginia
January 25 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm
Explore the science museum for this out of this world birthday event! Every child with Ds who has a January birthday will get a special birthday box from Friendship Circle.
Light refreshments provided
No charge
For all ages!! Siblings welcome!
Register here: January Birthday Circle at the Science Museum of Virginia

Fun4Life Lunch Bunch
2026-02-09 11:30 - 13:00 | Genova’s Pizza Station, 2723 Buford Rd, Bon Air, VA, 23235
Fun4Life Lunch Bunch For adults ages 21 and older
Get ready to celebrate International Pizza Day with VDSA! Stop into Genova’s Pizza Station in Bon Air for a quick bite alongside your VDSA Fun4Life buddies. Enjoy a delicious slice (or two, or three…) and catch up with friends old and new. Don’t miss out on the fun – mark your calendars and join us for some delicious pizza and company!
Monday, February 9th at 11:30 am
Genova’s Pizza Station, 2723 Buford Rd, Bon Air, VA 23235 (Each guest is responsible for their individual order)
Parents welcome to stay at table nearby.
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/60617-dinner-out-at-california-pizza-kitchen

Richmond Valentine's Day Dance Party
2026-02-14 18:00 | Christ Church Episcopal, 5000 Pouncey Tract Rd, Glen Allen, Virginia, 23059
Richmond Valentine’s Day Dance Party

Get ready for an energetic evening as we celebrate Valentine’s Day! 💘 Join us for a fun-filled night of dancing, socializing, and making unforgettable memories with friends and loved ones. Take part in our exciting activities, including photos-ops to capture the special moments, and get creative with our Valentine’s Day-themed crafts.
To make the evening even more delightful, we’ll be providing drinks and some tasty snacks, but we invite you to bring a snack or treat to share with the group, so we can all indulge in the sweetness together!

If you’re attending with your special someone, please let us know!💕

This event is open to ages 13 and above, and we welcome siblings to join in on the fun!

Register to attend here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/96263-richmond-hearts-aglow-valentine-s-dance
Sign-up to bring a dish here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080D4DA8AC22A3F49-61659711-valentines#/

Moms’ Night Out
2026-02-19 17:30 - 19:30 | Natalie’s Restaurant, 2825 Hathaway Road, Richmond, VA, 23225
You are invited to a Mom’s Night Out!

Thursday, February 19th,
Natalie’s Restaurant, 2825 Hathaway Road, Richmond

New – Mini Info Session 4-5pm (Natalie’s Private Room)

Happy Hour – 5:30 – 7:30 PM

Tat yourself to an evening designed just for YOU, where you can relax, and enjoy some well-deserved me-time.

Register Here: Moms’ Night Out

Richmond - Monster Mini Golf
2026-02-22 14:00 - 15:30 | Monster Mini Golf, Monster Mini Golf 1420 N Parham Rd SPC K220 Regency Shopping Mall, Richmond, VA, 23229
Join us for a thrilling Game of Monster Mini Golf, an experience featuring a glow-in-the-dark indoor course, plus arcade games & a DJ.
For Adventures ages 6-12, siblings welcome – the more, the merrier!
When: Sunday, February 22nd at 2:00 PM
Cost: VIP – $10.00 / Sibling(s) – $12.00

We want to make sure everyone can join in on the fun, so if the registration fee would prevent your “VIP” from attending, please don’t hesitate to use code “VIPguest”

Signup Here: Monster Mini Golf

Richmond - Indoor Rock Climbing
2026-02-28 10:30 - 12:00 | Peak Experiences Midlothian, 11421 Polo Cir, Midlothian, VA, 23113
Join us for a fun session of indoor rock climbing led by Beyond Boundaries. No experience is necessary, siblings welcome!
Cost: $15 per individual.
All ages! Maximum number of climbers: 12!
February 28th @ 10:30 am – Noon
Peak Experiences Midlothian: 11421 Polo Cir, Midlothian, VA 23113
Register here: Rock Climbing with-Beyond Boundaries
