Virginia Down Syndrome Association

Art in the Park (ages 2-12) (RVA)
2025-08-23 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
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

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

Dads’ Night Out
2025-08-26 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.

Tuesday, August 26th, 6PM

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

RSVP to Jan Rychtar, ary60249@gmail.com

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

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

Familias Latinas VDSA - Club de Pesca el mes de Septiembre
2025-09-09 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-09-16 18:00 - 19:30, 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

Richmond – Painting Class
2025-09-12 12:30 - 13:30
Painting Class at the Art Factory is the Second Friday of Each Month
12:30 to 1:30 pm
$15 per person
Open to All Friends with Disabilities
Dates: September 12th – October 17th – November 14th – December 12th
Art Factory, 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/83876-richmond-painting-classes-at-the-art-factory-fall-2025

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.

Mini Golf - Richmond
2025-09-14 10:00 - 11:30
Mini Golf
Adventurers For children ages 6-12 and siblings
Sunday, Sept. 14 at 10:00 am
Cost: $5.00
Patterson Golf Park, 12586 Patterson Ave (near 288 & Patterson Ave.)
Join for a fun round of miniature golf.
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 | 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

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

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

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

Caregiver Restorative Yoga
2025-10-05 17:30 - 18:30 | Humble Haven Yoga, 6980 Forest Ave, Richmond, VA, 23230
Rest, renew and recharge! Don’t miss this special class just for VDSA Caregivers at Humble Haven Yoga. This is a restorative yoga class meant for deep relaxation. NO experience necessary! Just wear something comfortable and come take a deep breath with your community.
Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/92137-caregiver-restorative-yoga

Richmond - Step Up RVA Packet Pickup
2025-10-08 14:00 - 18:30, 2025-10-09 09:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-09 14:00 - 18:30 | VDSA, 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond, VA, 23229
If you have registered a team for our 2025 Step Up For Down Syndrome 5K and Family Fun Festival, you may pick up your packet during the dates below:
– Wednesday, October 8th from 2:00 pm – 6:30 pm (VDSA office)

– Thursday, October 9th – 9:00 am -12:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 6:30 pm, (VDSA office)

The VDSA office located at 1504 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 124, Richmond VA 23229. There is plenty of parking at the front and back of the building.

– Saturday, October 11th from 7:30 – 9:00 am (Dorey Park)
We HIGHLY encourage an early packet pickup to avoid lines on the morning of the event.

If you are picking up packets for team members, we encourage you to email aevans@virginiadsa.org no later than Wednesday, October 8th. We can package your team together and have them ready for pickup. If you are unable to email ahead of time, bring a list of your team member names. Please advise team members if you are picking up for them to avoid them making an unnecessary trip. We will also be taking walk-up registrations during both Packet Pickup times.
