Virginia Down Syndrome Association

Adventure Club - Richmond
2024-10-24 16:30 - 17:30, 2024-10-30 16:30 - 17:30, 2024-11-07 16:30 - 17:30 (America/New_York)
Adventure Club
Day: THURSDAYS 4:30-5:30 PM
NEW FALL DATES
Dates: 10/3/24, 10/10/24, 10/17/24, 10/24/24, 10/31/24*** Halloween, maybe move it to Wednesday of that week, 11/7/24 – Indoor rock climbing.
Location: Bryan Park, 4308 Hermitage Rd, Richmond
Join us for hiking, fishing and outdoor fun!
Led by Beyond Boundaries and co-hosted with Jacob’s Chance
Ages 13-20 (FunQuest) & 21+ (Fun4Life)
Register here

Virtual - Improvaneer - Fall Session 2
2024-10-24 19:00 - 20:00, 2024-10-31 19:00 - 20:00, 2024-11-07 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for this fulfilled virtual hour!
Thursdays: 7:00-8:00 pm
Session 2: Oct. 10 to Nov. 7
Ages teen to adult
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74445-virtual-improvaneer-method-class
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association is excited to start the virtual Improvaneer Method 5 week class again!!

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/

Solo Support Squad Meeting October 2024
2024-10-24 20:00 - 21:00
Join us for this group of single parents of individuals with Down syndrome as we connect and share the joys and challenges of parenthood! This group is peer-led and meets virtually via Zoom on the last Thursday of each month (Oct-Dec 2024 will be alternate days due to holidays). Please register for the Zoom link. https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/77383-virtual-solo-support-squad-october-2024

Richmond - Parent Night Respite Event October 2024
2024-10-25 18:00 - 20:00
The VDSA Parents’ Night Respite Event will take place on Friday, October 25th 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.

register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76026-richmond-parent-night-respite-event-october-2024

Williamsburg - Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat
2024-10-26 09:00 - 12:00
Trick or Treat – Williamsburg
Disability Awareness Trick or Treat – Visit the VDSA Table among other organizations!

Come by and join in the fun. On Sat. 10/26 from 9 to noon. Sponsored by James City County Parks and Rec.

Sensory Friendly Event
Trackless Train rides
Treats for Everyone
Costumes welcome
Sensory Room Available
Meet local organizations!

October 26, 2024 @ 9:00AM — 12:00PM

Abram Frink, Jr Community Center 8901 Pocahontas Trl
Williamsburg, VA 23185

Richmond - Trunk or Treat
2024-10-26 13:30 - 16:30
NEW LOCATION AND TIME FOR TRUNK OR TREAT
VDSA is excited again to participate in Trunk or Treat
C.A.T.S. and The Whole Family Foundation present Hallowheels, a Halloween trunk-or-treat themed celebration and Children’s Disabilities Resource Fair on Saturday, October 26th. This event is an all-inclusive and accessible Halloween trunk-or-treat themed Disability Resource fair which will be hosted at MobilityWorks of Richmond. This will be a rain or shine event. If it rains, we will move indoors.

Still Saturday, Oct. 26
Time: 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm
Location: Mobility Works, 7450 Midlothian Turnpike N Chesterfield VA 23225
VDSA will have a trunk along with organizations and businesses.
This is an outdoor, welcoming, sensory-friendly, intimate, and supportive event
Each year we have at least 100 happy faces, young and old, visit our event.

Dress up and stop by for some candy!! Register so we know to look for you!
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75154-richmond-trunk-or-treat-oct-2024

Park Meet Up - Taylor Farm Park, Sandston (RVA)
2024-10-27 14:00 - 16:00
Join families for Fun Park Meet ups
October 27 – Taylor Farm Park, Sandston, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Nov. 17 – R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks, Chester – 2:00 – 4:00 pm
All ages welcome
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/78196-park-meet-ups-tricities-2024

Fall Horseback Riding- Morning - Williamsburg
2024-10-29 10:00 - 11:00
Two – six week sessions – 9/24 to 10/29 and 11/12 to 12/19 at 10 am or 5 pm for an hour each Tuesday
Location: Dream Catchers Riding Center 10120 Fire Tower Rd, Toano, VA 23168
Scholarships are available
Register by emailing smclain@virginiadsa.org

Richmond - Jr. Range After School Club Pocahontas St. Park
2024-10-29 16:00 - 17:00, 2024-11-05 16:00 - 17:00
Jr. Ranger After School Club

includes snack time at end at the indoor Nature Center
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Pocahontas State Park, Chesterfield 10301 State Park Rdm Chesterfield, VA 23832

All participants will earn a Junior Ranger Badge!!
Siblings of all age welcome.
All ages welcome!
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75190-richmond-jr-ranger-club-at-pocahontas-state-park-oct-nov-2024

Fall Horseback Riding - afternoon sessions - Williamsburg
2024-10-29 17:00 - 18:00

Virtual - School Inclusion Support Group
2024-10-30 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for the monthly school-inclusion focused VDSA caregiver support group. This group is peer-led by parents of school-aged children with Down syndrome. Come ask your questions and share your knowledge and experience with others on a similar journey!
register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/77088-virtual-school-inclusion-group-oct-2024

21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series!
2024-10-30 20:00 - 21:00, 2024-11-06 20:00 - 21:00
21 Shades Fall Virtual Meeting Series!
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.
October 2, 2024 — November 6, 2024 – 8:00 – 9:00PM
Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 and Nov. 6
Any questions please email mail jsamuel@virginiadsa.org
Register: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76989-21-shades-fall-meeting-series

Williamsburg Parent Night Respite Event
2024-11-01 18:00 - 20:00
Calling all Williamsburg families! We love our kids, AND we can use a break sometimes. Bring the kids for fun and games while you get time for self-care at the VDSA Parent Night Respite Event. Individuals with Down syndrome and their siblings are welcome. Learn more and register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76969-williamsburg-parent-night-respite-event

Charlottesville Moms' Night Out
2024-11-01 18:30 - 20:30
Charlottesville Moms’ Night Out
Fall 2024
All Friday nights at 6:30 pm
Sept. 27 – La Zeez, Modern Indian Fair, 401 E. Main St., Charlottesville
Oct. 18 – Burton’s Grill and Bar, 3530 W. Cary St.
Nov. 1 – Fardowners, 5773 The Square, Crozet
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74979-charlottesville-moms-night-outs-aug-nov-2024

Richmond - Moms' Night Out, Short Pump
2024-11-01 18:30 - 20:30
Join other Moms for a Dinner out for good food and conversation. Everyone pays for their own meal.
All start at 6:30 pm.
Friday, August 9 – Midlothian – Charred – 13451 Hull Street Rd N, Midlothian, VA 23112
Friday, Sept. 27 – Forest Hill – Maldini’s Ristorante Pizzeria, 4811 Forest Hill Ave, Richmond, VA 23225
Friday, October 18 – Richmond, Brambly Park, 708 Belleville St, Richmond, VA 23230
Friday, November 1 – Short Pump – West Coast Provisions, 301 Maltby Blvd, Henrico, VA 23233
Friday, November 22 – Midlothian – Yamato Japanese Steakhouse, 13607 Hull Street Rd, Midlothian, VA 23112
Hope you can join us!
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71054-moms-night-out-greater-richmond-2024

Fredericksburg Family Program at Steadfast Trail Farm
2024-11-02 10:00 - 12:00
Fredericksburg Family Program at Steadfast Trail Farm
November 2, 2024 @ 10:00AM — 12:00PM

Steadfast Trail Farm 6830 Hickory Ridge Rd
Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551
Join Fredericksburg area families for a morning at Steadfast Trail Farm!
Steadfast Trail farm is a non-profit organization founded to utilize horses in therapy for special needs and youth!
We will be grooming the horses, petting the goats and playing games!
Register:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76201-fredericksburg-fall-family-program-2024

Richmond Family Hike - Pocahontas State Park
2024-11-02 14:00 - 15:30
Join VDSA for family friendly nature hikes!

Nov. 2 at Pocahontas State Park led by a Park Ranger

Will finish and have snack in their nature center activity room

Nov. 10 at Deep Run Park in Henrico County led by Beyond Boundaries.

Will end with snacks and drinks.

All ages and siblings welcome!

No charge
Register:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75160-richmond-nature-hikes-nov-2024

Richmond - Friendship Club - Gals
2024-11-03 13:00 - 14:30
VDSA is excited to announce the Friendship Club for Guys & Gals.
Ages teen to young adult.
Gals time: 1:00- 2:30 pm
Guys time: 3:00- 4:30 pm
Each month will have a new topic included with fun activities.

Friendship skills
Social skills
Build social connections
Learn about emotions
Deal with confrontation
How to cope when things don’t go your way
and more

Club meeting dates are all Sundays:

March 17, April 14, May 5, June 2, July 14, Aug. 25, Sept. 22, Oct. 6 and Nov. 3 (Club party)

It is important to be able to attend the majority of the dates. Teen and young adult volunteers will be part of the Club as well.
This program is sponsored by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services

Richmond - Friendship Club - Guys
2024-11-03 15:00 - 16:30
VDSA is excited to announce the Friendship Club for Guys & Gals.
Ages teen to young adult.
Guys time: 3:00- 4:30 pm
Each month will have a new topic included with fun activities.

Friendship skills
Social skills
Build social connections
Learn about emotions
Deal with confrontation
How to cope when things don’t go your way
and more

Club meeting dates are all Sundays:

March 17, April 14, May 5, June 2, July 14, Aug. 25, Sept. 22, Oct. 6 and Nov. 3 (Club party)

It is important to be able to attend the majority of the dates. Teen and young adult volunteers will be part of the Club as well.
This program is sponsored by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services

Richmond Grandparent Support Group - Nov 2024
2024-11-04 18:30 - 19:30
Connect with other grandparents of individuals with Down syndrome! This group is peer-led and will meet in-person at our Richmond office. Details in the registration:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/76776-hybrid-grandparent-support-group-november-2024

Richmond - T21 Golf Tournament 2024
2024-11-08 09:00 - 14:00
Join us for the 2024 T21 Golf Tournament!
Join us for the 2024 T21 Golf Tournament benefitting the Virginia Down Syndrome Association. Tee off at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, November 8th at the Sycamore Creek Golf Course. All greens fees, carts and lunch are included in the cost.

Any questions or to sponsor, contact Mike Baum, mbaum@virginiadsa.org
Questions? Contact Tournament Director, Billy Hamm: billhamm117@gmail.com
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74279-richmond-t21-golf-tournament-2024

Richmond - Painting Class
2024-11-08 12:30 - 13:30
Richmond – Painting Class in Midlothian

Fridays
12:30 to 1:30 pm
$15 per person
Open to All Friends with Disabilities
Sept. 13, Oct. 18, Nov. 8 & Dec. 13
Art Factory, 4810 Market Square Ln, Midlothian

Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/71081-richmond-painting-classes-at-the-art-factory-fall-2024

The Learning Program
2024-11-09 09:30 - 11:30
Register for The Learning Program 2024-2025!

-8 monthly sessions held on Saturdays between October 2024 and May 2025.
-All sessions will have an in-person and virtual option, except May which is entirely virtual.
-Location: Shady Grove YMCA – 11255 Nuckols Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059
-Cost: The cost of the program is $250 (in person), $205 (virtual) (Scholarships Available).
Dates: October 5, 2024, November 9, 2024, December 14, 2024. January 11, 2025. February 8, 2025. March 8, 2025, April 12, 2025 and May 10, 2025 (Virtual only
Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
-Link to apply for scholarship: https://virginiadsa.org/scholarships/
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)
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.
If you have any questions, please email Ame Branam, Education Director, at abranam@virginiadsa.org
Register here:
https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/75962-the-learning-program-2024-2025

Richmond - River City Inclusive Gym
2024-11-09 15:00 - 17:00
River City Inclusive Gym
Monthly on Saturdays
Dates: Nov. 9
Times and ages: 3:00-3:45 pm – Ages 2 to 8
Times and ages:4:00-4:45 pm – Ages 9 and up
(age groups will be separated))
Cost: $10 per session
Siblings welcome. Register in age group of sibling with Ds.
Location: 11248 Patterson Ave, Henrico, VA 23238
2 miles from Hwy 288
Register here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/74443-richmond-river-city-inclusive-gym
River City Inclusive Gym class is designed to engage every athlete physically and mentally. Each class is set in an 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 course. This pattern continues for the length of the class
