Disability Expo
2024-01-07 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | VA

Improvaneer (5 weeks) Virtual for Teens & Adults
2024-01-11 19:00 - 20:00
Virtual Class for ages 16 to adult. Teens to adults are welcome to sign up!
Thursday Nights from 7:00-8:00 pm virtually on Zoom
Session 1: January 11 to Feb. 8 (5 weeks)
Session 2: Feb. 29 to March 28 (5 weeks)
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.
-Rob Snow – CEO and Creator
https://www.theimprovaneermethod.com/

Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/64904-improvaneer-method

Painting Class at The Art Factory (Homeschoolers to adults)
2024-01-12 12:30 - 13:30
Painting Class at The Art Factory
Creative Canvas at the Art Factory exclusive adaptive painting class for individuals with disabilities and Virginia Down Syndrome Association. This class is opening to individuals with Down syndrome or other disabilities.
Once a month on Fridays: Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 and May 10.
For homeschoolers and Fun4Life ages 21+
$15 per class at The Art Factory. 4810 Market Square Lane, Midlothian VA 23112.
A VDSA staff member will be there. Parents and caregivers are welcome to either stay in the class, enjoy the Art Factory’s coffee area or drop off and pick up.
Seasonal canvas painting for each class.
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65181-painting-class-at-the-art-factory

Parent Night Respite Event
2024-01-12 18:00 - 20:00
Self-Care Time for Caregivers!
We all love our kids, and we all need some adult time too. Enjoy some time away while VDSA and Treehouse Therapy keep your children ages 5+ safe and occupied! This event is open to families of individuals with Down syndrome. For our first Parent Night, we are accepting participants ages 5 and older. Email Sherry to join the waitlist for this event if registration is closed: sklauer@virginiadsa.org.

The VDSA Parents Night Respite Event will take place on Friday, January 12th from 6 pm- 8 pm at Treehouse Pediatric Therapy (12201 Gayton Rd. Henrico, VA 23238). Individuals with Down syndrome (5+) and their siblings (5+) are welcome at this event. Games and activities will be provided for the attendees. Please bring a labeled bagged dinner (something that does not need to be heated) and a water bottle as well as any other supplies your children may need during their time with us.
When you register, please add tickets for all of the children that will attend. You will also receive an email requesting additional information about your children that will assist us as we care for them on 1/12. We must receive all of the information back before Monday 1/8 to ensure your family’s participation.
VDSA staff along with volunteers (who have all passed criminal background checks) will be on sight to supervise the attendees. The max attendance for this event is 15 participants so the event will book up quickly! We plan to make these events more regular and offer sessions where we will welcome babies and children under 5 in the future. Stay tuned!
email Sherry with questions sklauer@virginiadsa.org
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65003-parent-night-respite-event

Kindermusick
2024-01-14 15:00 - 16:00
Join us!

Kindermusik, Sunday, Jan. 14 3:00 – 4:00 pm $5 per child Siblings welcome at Virginia Down Syndrome Associations’ Activity Room 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Richmond, VA 23229

A Party Playhouse, Sunday, Feb. 25 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at 7478 Lee-Davis Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23111
Kindermusik, Saturday, March 23 from 3:00 – 4:00 pm $5 per child Siblings welcome at Little Sunshine Music Studio, 12010 Southshore Pointe Dr Midlothian, VA 23112
$5 per child. Siblings welcome.

Kindermusik led by Little Sunshine Music Studio

Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65201-baby-to-8-years-old-music-and-play

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Office Closed
2024-01-15

Developmental Disabilities Rally - Richmond
2024-01-17 10:30 - 11:30
Join the Developmental Disabilities Rally on January 17 @ 10:30 – 11:30am at the Bell Tower on the Capitol Grounds in Richmond.
For more information:
https://www.thearcofva.org/action-center

Movie Night - ages 18+
2024-01-19 19:00 - 21:00
Join your friends for a movie night!!
Movie choices will be sent when you RSVP.
Ages 18+
Popcorn, drinks and snacks will be served.
7-9 pm at Virginia Down Syndrome Association: 1504 Santa Rosa Road, 124 Richmond, VA 23229
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65217-movie-night-ages-18

River City Inclusive Gym - Ages 2 to 8
2024-01-20 15:00 - 15:45
River City Inclusive Gym

3:00 – 3:45 pm – Ages 2 to 8
4:00 – 4:45 pm – Ages 9 to Adult (Adventurers age 6 to 12) FunQuest (ages 13 to 20) and Fun4Life 21+
$10 per class
Age groups will be separated as appropriate
Sign up for each individually. Choose the dates that work in your schedule.
Parents of children ages 2 & 3 are required to be the 1:1 with your child
Location is 3 miles from Hwy 288 & Patterson Ave.

Dates: Jan. 20, Feb. 24, March 16, April 20,May 18, June 15

River City Inclusive Gym class is designed to engage each athlete physically and mentally. Each class is set in obstacle course format. This provides us optimum opportunity to instruct 1:1 while the whole group stays engaged. Upon entering the gym, the athletes begin their first course right away. As they go through the course, every obstacle or piece of equipment is adapted to meet individual needs if necessary. After 15 minutes the class takes a water break before beginning the next court.
River City Inclusive Gym, 11248 Patterson Ave, 23238
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65222-river-city-inclusive-gym

River City Inclusive Gym - 4:00-4:45 pm - Ages 9 to Adult
2024-01-20 16:00 - 16:45
4:00 – 4:45 pm – Ages 9 to Adult (Adventurers age 6 to 12) FunQuest (ages 13 to 20) and Fun4Life 21+
$10 per class
Age groups will be separated as appropriate
Sign up for each individually. Choose the dates that work in your schedule.
Location is 3 miles from Hwy 288 & Patterson Ave.

Dates: Jan. 20, Feb. 24, March 16, April 20,May 18, June 15

River City Inclusive Gym class is designed to engage each athlete physically and mentally. Each class is set in obstacle course format. This provides us optimum opportunity to instruct 1:1 while the whole group stays engaged. Upon entering the gym, the athletes begin their first course right away. As they go through the course, every obstacle or piece of equipment is adapted to meet individual needs if necessary. After 15 minutes the class takes a water break before beginning the next court.
River City Inclusive Gym, 11248 Patterson Ave, 23238
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65222-river-city-inclusive-gym

Shenandoah Valley New Years Potluck 2024
2024-01-20 16:30 - 18:30
January 4, 2024 @ 4:30PM — 6:30 pm

COVENANT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH- 546 Mosby Rd. 546 Mosby Rd
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65809-shenandoah-valley-new-years-potluck-2024

Science Museum of Virginia with Friendship Circle (All ages)
2024-01-21 14:00 - 15:30
VDSA is joining Friendship Circles’ January BIrthday Circle at the Science Museum of Virginia
January 21 from 2:00 to 3:30 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: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65226-science-museum-vdsa-and-friendship-circle

Diagnosis + Help Group January (Virtual)
2024-01-23 18:30 - 19:30
Connect with other caregivers and individuals with a dual diagnosis in a loosley faciltated discussion format. Virtual on Zoom.
Jan. 23 at 6:30 pm
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65358-diagnosis-help-group-january-virtual

VCU Basketball Game
2024-01-23 19:00 - 21:00
VCU Basketball Game
January 23, 2024 @ 7:00PM
Come out and see VCU play against the Loyola Ramblers.

20 tickets have been donated to VDSA from Synergy Technical
Everyone will be able to stay after the game and meet the VCU players
Meet and Greet with player will take place on Feb. 10th. More details on time and location soon.

Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65232-vcu-baskeball-game

Moms' Night Out - Mechanicsville, VA
2024-01-26 18:30 - 20:30
Join for good food and conversation. All at 6:30 pm

January 26, Kreggers Tap and Table, 9523 Kings Charter Dr, Ashland, VA 23005
February 23, Plaza Azteca, Short Pump, 12020 W Broad St, Henrico, VA 23233
March 22, Wong’s Taco,1106 Winterfield Crossing, Midlothian, VA 23113

All moms pay for their own meals.
Register:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65235-moms-night-out-richmond

Disability Planning Clinic
2024-01-31 10:00 - 14:00
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association has partnered with the Special Abilities Network for a Disability Planning Clinic

Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 10 am to 2 pm
In person or VIRTUAL. In person will be at the Virginia Down Syndrome Association, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Richmond
Sign up for you 30 minute slot starting at 10 am and last time slot at 1:30 pm

This is a FREE planning clinic which will address the planning needs of your family, answer your questions, and help you develop a strategy that addresses your needs now and in the future.
Planning Comprises:

Understanding the lifetime costs of care and how to obtain the needed funded resources
Identifying what legal documents you are your family may need
Creating a support plan and obtaining resources for every member of the family

If you have questions, please reach out to sklauer@virginiadsa.org
Register here: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ1IJzYfaiHubaGV_fVCPfk9ZdiPhpufXv3v6vB2L7cGs7jDudrdDgP2L7YWGu330tRPI3GMGv7P

VDSA Virginia General Assembly Advocacy DAY
2024-02-01 08:30 - 11:30
VDSA Virginia General Assembly Advocacy DAY
Elevate the voices of individuals with Down syndrome to the Virginia legislature! There are BIG stakes this year as we will speak to our representatives about the DD waiver system and why the GA should approve Governor Youngkin’s proposal to fund ALL priority one waiver slots. The event times are estimates and you can come and go when you need to. We will send more details as we get closer to the event on the timing and where to meet that morning.

February 1, 2024 @ 8:30AM — 11:30AM

General Assembly Building : 201 N 9th St Richmond, VA 23219
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65399-vdsa-ga-lobby-day

The Learning Program
2024-02-03 09:00 - 11:00
The Learning Program
Starts October 7 – 9:00 – 11:00 am
-8 monthly sessions held on Saturdays between October 2023 and June 2024.
-All sessions will have an in-person and virtual option (June is all virtual).
-Shady Grove YMCA – 11255 Nuckols Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059
-Cost: The cost of the program is $260 (in person), $160 (virtual) (Scholarships Available).

The Learning Program is an educational program developed by the Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County (DSFOC). It serves as a platform for sharing literacy and math instructional strategies, resources and activities to improve academic outcomes for students with Down syndrome, equipping families with the knowledge and tools to work effectively at home and at school.

Virtual option for parents living outside of Richmond
LP Level 1 (recommended ages PreK-1st grade or emerging readers)
LP Level 2 (recommended ages 2nd-3rd grade)
Parent classes are taught by a local parent of a young adult with Down syndrome using the Learning Program curriculum.

During each session, parents will receive instruction in a separate parent only class. Children will receive hands-on learning in a student class with centers that focus on literacy and math led by qualified teachers and an occupational therapist.
Questions, email sklauer@virginiadsa.org
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/61132-the-learning-program

Rock Climbing - Richmond (Ages 6 to adult)
2024-02-03 12:30 - 14:00
Join us for Indoor Rock Climbing led by Beyond Boundaries! No experience necessary
Feb. 3 -Peak Experiences. Richmond located in SCOR Sports Center of Richmond,1375 Overbrook Rd, Richmond, VA 23220
March 3 -11421 Polo Cir, Midlothian, VA 23113
12:30 pm -2:00 pm.
All ages.
Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65239-rock-climbing

Managing Your Money: Session 1, What Is Money?
2024-02-07 17:30 - 18:30
For self-advocates and caregivers.

Learn practical tools and strategies to talk to your self-advocate about money. This is a three-part series and you can attend 1, 2, or all of the sessions (please register separately for each event you plan to attend)!
Feb. 7: What is Money?
February 21: Budgeting & Bank Accounts
March 6: Spending & Borrowing
Dinner will be provided by C&F Bank.
January 24, 2024 @ 5:30PM — 6:30PM
VDSA Office 1504 Santa Rosa Rd
Richmond, Virginia 23229

Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65087-managing-your-money-session-1-what-is-money

21 Shades (Black Family Support Group) - Virtual
2024-02-07 20:00 - 21:00
21 Shades (Black Family Support Group)
Please join the Virginia Down Syndrome Associations monthly 21 Shades of Virginial Black Family Support Group.
The group, 21 shades of Virginia, is a support group created after an expressed need in support of families expecting or raising a Black/interracial child with Down Syndrome.
The purpose of this group is to create a safe space for the Black Community to network, collaborate, create and share information while building meaningful connections.
Upon registration you will be sent a link to Zoom.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Jasmine Samuel at jsamuel@virginiadsa.org
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/57994-21-shades-monthly-virtual-meeting

Painting Class at The Art Factory (Homeschoolers and adults)
2024-02-09 12:30 - 13:30
Painting Class at The Art Factory
Creative Canvas at the Art Factory exclusive adaptive painting class for individuals with disabilities and Virginia Down Syndrome Association. This class is opening to individuals with Down syndrome or other disabilities.
Once a month on Fridays: Feb. 9, March 8, April 12 and May 10.
For homeschoolers and Fun4Life ages 21+
$15 per class at The Art Factory. 4810 Market Square Lane, Midlothian VA 23112.
A VDSA staff member will be there. Parents and caregivers are welcome to either stay in the class, enjoy the Art Factory’s coffee area or drop off and pick up.
Seasonal canvas painting for each class.
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/65181-painting-class-at-the-art-factory

I'm Determined Self-Advocacy Training
2024-02-10 09:30 - 13:00
I’m Determined Self-Advocacy Training
February 10, 2024 @ 9:30AM — 1:00PM

VDSA Office 1504 Santa Rosa Rd
Richmond, Virginia 23229
Practice Self-Determination Skills for School, Work, and Life!
Self-Determination for Self-advocates and caregivers

Join us for the Virginia Department of Education’s I’m Determined self-advocacy program at VDSA. Self-advocates will attend the workshop from 9:30-1 pm and caregivers are welcome for their own special session from 9:45-10:45 am. A pizza lunch will be provided for all! Contact sklauer@virginiadsa.org for more information. Individuals with Down syndrome ages 13+ are welcome. This program is in-person at the VDSA Richmond office but families from all Virginia localities are welcome.
Register here.

VCU Basketball Meet & Greet
2024-02-10 14:00 - 15:30
Basketball Meet and Greet with VCU Men’s Basketball Players
Bounce the ball, shoot hoops and have fun!
Saturday, Feb. 10 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm
Magnolia Academy
7300 Magnolia Market Ave,
Moseley, VA 23120
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/66070-vcu-basketball-players-meet-greet

Building Communication Skills - Adults
2024-02-12 16:00 - 16:30
Classes are each Monday (Feb 12-Mar25th) from 4-4:30 pm on Zoom. There is no class on Monday 3/4 due to Longwood spring break.
Feb. 12, 19, 26 and March 11, 18, 25.
Longwood University speech therapy students will guide you each week with new conversations on fun and rewarding topics. In this low-pressure, conversational style program you’ll learn just by connecting with friends and having a great time!
This program is best for self-advocates aged 19+. If you are interested in the program for teens, contact sklauer@virginiadsa.org for the link.
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/66694-building-communication-skills-for-adults

Building Communication Skills - Teens
2024-02-12 16:30 - 17:00, 2024-02-19 16:30 - 17:00
Build communication skills for work, school, and life!
Classes are each Monday (Feb 12-Mar25th) from 4:30 -5:00 pm on Zoom. There is no class on Monday 3/4 due to Longwood spring break.
Feb. 12, 19, 26 and March 11, 18, 25.

Longwood University speech therapy students will guide you each week with new conversations on fun and rewarding topics. In this low-pressure, conversational style program you’ll learn just by connecting with friends and having a great time! This section is for teens 13-18. Older self-advocates can register for our adult session which will be from 4-4:30. Contact sklauer@virginiadsa.org if you’d like the link for that class.
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/66688-building-communication-skills-for-teens

Building Communication Skills - Adults
2024-02-19 16:00 - 16:30
Classes are each Monday (Feb 12-Mar25th) from 4:00 -4:30 pm on Zoom. There is no class on Monday 3/4 due to Longwood spring break.
Feb. 12, 19, 26 and March 11, 18, 25.
Longwood University speech therapy students will guide you each week with new conversations on fun and rewarding topics. In this low-pressure, conversational style program you’ll learn just by connecting with friends and having a great time!
This program is best for self-advocates aged 19+. If you are interested in the program for teens, contact sklauer@virginiadsa.org for the link.
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/66694-building-communication-skills-for-adults

Virtual Speaker Series - Full Life: Setting our Kids Up to Thrive as Adults
2024-02-20 18:30 - 19:45
Dismantling Ableism: Empowering Individuals with Down Syndrome to Thrive
4-night Virtual Speaker Series designed to empower, educate, connect, and inspire. *Spanish and ASL interpretation provided

Connect with other caregivers and allies of individuals with Down syndrome during this 4-night virtual speaker series. There will be two thought-provoking topics each evening – pick the ones that interest you most or attend them all. The ticket price covers all 8 sessions! We will engage with self-advocates, parents, disability advocates, and experts in the field.
*Scholarships available, email sklauer@virginiadsa.org for more information
Cost: $30 before Dec. 31 and $40 after Jan. 1. Registration includes all recordings.
Tuesday, February 20
6:30-7:45
Full Life: Setting our Kids Up to Thrive as Adults
Amy Julia Becker, mother of an individual with Down syndrome
7:45-8:30
More Alike Than Different
David Egan, self-advocate with Down syndrome
Thursday, February 22
6:30-7:30
Empowering Emotional Regulation and Prosocial Behaviors
Sarah Schmitt, Behavioral & Educational Consultant
7:30-8:30
Fostering Independence
Dana Halle, Co-Founder & Executive Director of the Down Syndrome Foundation of Orange County California
Tuesday, February, 27
6:30-7:30
Assistive Technology: Supporting Independence
Dr. Anya Evmenova, George Mason University
7:30-8:30
Competence, Autonomy & Relatedness
Kendal Swartzentruber, Brandon Stees, self-advocate with Down syndrome
Thursday, February 29
6:30-7:30
The Critical Time of Transition
Lisa Coates, EducateforAll
7:30-8:30 pm
Just Human: The Quest for Disability Wisdom, Respect, and Inclusion
Arielle Silverman, Disabled activist, Social scientist, and Author
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/62968-the-virginia-virtual-down-syndrome-speaker-series

Virtual Speaker Series - More Alike Than Different
2024-02-20 19:45 - 20:30
