Virginia Down Syndrome Association

Fredericksburg Dads' Night Out
2025-08-22 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Hacienda El Patron, 2805 Plank Rd, Frederickburg, VA, 2401
Let’s Meet Up for Dads’ Night Out

Please join fellow Fredericksburg dads a for a night out. Come and connect with other dads, share stories, and enjoy a relaxing evening. It’s a chance to support each other and create some fun!

Register Here: https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/88622-fredericksburg-moms-and-dads-night-out

CHARLOTTESVILLE MEETUP + WALK
2025-08-23 08:30 - 10:30 | CHS High School track, 1400 Melbourne Rd, Charlottesville, VA, 22901
Charlottesville All-Ages Social Meetup + Walk
– to train for the Special Olympics 10K/2-mile

Date: 8/23 & 9/6 from 8:30-10:30am
CHS High School track, 1400 Melbourne Rd, Charlottesville VA 22901
**Four laps around the track equal one mile.**
After the walk, we’ll head to Kindness Café/YMCA outdoor playground for some fun and connection!
Register Here:

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

Hanover-Guiding Your Child's Leap into Early Learning (Ages 0-5yrs)
2025-08-26 15:00 - 16:30 | Atlee Library, 9212 Rutlandshire Dr, Mechanicsville, 23116, United States
Guiding Your Child’s Leap into Early Learning (Ages 0-5): Family Lifeline, in partnership with VDSA, presents a session to prepare families for transitioning children into early learning environments (daycare, preschool, kindergarten). Resources and support will be provided, with a focus on information relevant to children with disabilities. VDSA caregivers are welcome. See specific locations and dates for this presentation below.
8.12 Petersburg- Petersburg library at 10:15 am
8.14 Henrico – Deep Run park (shelter 4) at 10:00 am
8.26 Hanover – Atlee Library at 3:00 pm
Register Here! https://virginiadsa.networkforgood.com/events/89550-guiding-your-child-s-leap-into-early-learning-ages-0-5yrs

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

Tri-cities Crewe Railroad Museum
2025-08-30 10:00 - 13:00 | Crewe Railroad Museum, 125 Carolina Ave., Crewe, 23930, United States
​We will meet at Crewe Railroad Museum on August 30,2025 from 10-1. We will meet there and have a sack lunch following. If you have any questions, please contact me at 217-892-2932.
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 | 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

Charlottesville - Family Meet Up at the Gazpacho in the Garden
2025-09-06 17:00 - 20:00 | Morven Sustainability Lab, 661 Morven Drive, Charlottesville, VA, 22902
Hey VDSA families from Charlottesville and nearby areas!
Let’s get together at a beautiful event hosted by Morven UVA—their students have planned a fun, family-friendly day, and honestly… who can resist fresh tomato gazpacho? 🍅
🎟️ Tickets are $10 per person, and there are also raffle tickets available for purchase.
If you’d like to join us:
Buy your event tickets here:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-14th-annual-morven-gazpacho-in-the-garden-tickets-1203521658679
Then register on our sign-up sheet so we know who’s coming and can coordinate a shared spot.
👉 LINK
🧺 Don’t forget to bring your own picnic blanket, chairs—or both!
We hope to see many of you there for a great time outdoors!

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

F'burg Picnic in the Park
2025-09-07 16:00 - 18:00 | Kenmore park, 1401 Kenmore Park, Fredericksburg, 22401, United States
Picnic in the Park
Get ready for a fun-filled family evening at Kenmore Park! Join us at Sunday, Sept. 7th, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, for playtime and a picnic! Please bring a picnic food to share and don’t forget your picnic blanket!
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 | 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.

Step UP for Down Syndrome in the Valley
2025-09-13 10:00 - 13:00
Saturday, September 13th from 10am – 1pm
Hillandale Park: 801 Hillandale Ave. Harrisonburg, VA
Join us for a 1K, Family Festival, and Community Resource Fair, kids’ zone, music, exhibitors, food, Silent Auction, and more! Registration opening soon!

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

Fredericksburg - Into the Woods: Nature Walk
2025-09-14 14:00 - 15:30
Join us for an easy nature walk and scavenger hunt at Motts Run! We will also explore the nature center.
This is designed for the “Bigs” (11+), but we’d love for your whole family to attend!
Register here!

Friendship Club+ Adult Edition
2025-09-14 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-09-21 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

Pizza Party in the Park
2025-09-19 18:00 - 20:00
Pizza in the Park

We will meet at White Bank Park and share a pizza dinner and play. Please bring a side dish to share.
We will bring the pizza and the drinks.

Register here: Pizza in the Park

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
