VDSA Event: T21 Golf Tournament
2025-11-14 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Sycamore Creek Golf Course, 1991 Manakin Rd, Manakin-Sabot, VA, 23103, United States
Tee up for a great cause at the T21 Golf Tournament supporting the Virginia Down Syndrome Association. Enjoy a day of fun, friendly competition, and community — all while helping empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Your swing can make a difference!

ASCV Event: Fantasy and Board Games Night (Ages 15-25)
2025-11-14 18:00 - 20:00 | Grace and Holy Trinity Church, 8 N Laurel St., Richmond, VA, 23220, United States
Teens and Young Adults, ages 15–25, are invited to join us for an evening of adventure, strategy, and fun at Fantasy and Board Game Nights!
Whether you’re rolling dice, moving pieces, or tapping lands in Magic: The Gathering, there’s something for everyone.
Bring your favorite fantasy-themed board games or Magic decks to play with friends or meet new opponents. Whether you’re new to Magic: The Gathering or a seasoned planeswalker, you’re welcome at the table!
Adventure, strategy, and fun await—don’t miss it! This month we will introduce Dungeons and Dragons as well as Magic the Gatheri

VDSA Event: Indoor Rock Climbing
2025-11-15 10:30 - 12:00 | Peak Experiences Richmond, 1375 Overbrook Rd, Richmond, Virginia, 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!

VDSA Event: Richmond – Indoor Rock Climbing
2025-11-15 10:30 - 12:00 | Peak Experiences Richmond, 1375 Overbrook Rd, Richmond, Virginia, 23220

ASCV Event: Sensory-Friendly LEGO Robotics Meet-Up with Maggie Walker Governor's School
2025-11-16 13:30 - 16:00 | Maggie Walker Governor’s School, 1000 N Lombardy St, Richmond, VA, 23220, United States
On Sunday, November 16th, the Mech Tech Dragons of Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School will be hosting a First LEGO League (FLL) Robotics Tournament. As part of this exciting event, the Autism Society of Central Virginia is offering a sensory-friendly meet-up exclusively for ASCV members ages 8–16.
Participants will have the chance to:

Learn more about First LEGO League and robotics
Watch a live FLL team demonstration
Take part in a fun, hands-on building challenge

Friendship Circle - November Birthday Circle
2025-11-16 14:00 - 15:30 | Friendship Circle of Virginia, 212 N Gaskins Rd, Richmond, VA, 23238, United States
For the first time, our Birthday Circle will feature a separate activity just for teens!
Children Ages 5-12 will use colorful, sparkly crystals & a bit of hands-on chemistry with Mad Science to transform raw materials into their very own bouncy balls!
Teens will get hands-on with Studio Two Three’s mobile screen-printing workshop! They’ll choose from two templates and print their design on a shirt provided, or bring their own to personalize!
Light refreshments and additional activities will be provided.
Parents and siblings are welcome!
If you have multiple children that span the age ranges, pick that activity the best fits your family!
ALL SLOTS ARE FULL! Please check our upcoming events page to see what we have planned in the coming months.

PEATC Event: Turning 18 in Virginia: What Individuals with Disabilities Need to Consider
2025-11-17 16:00 - 17:30 | Virtual
Turning 18 is a big deal. An 18-year-old is legally considered an adult in Virginia and can make their own legal, financial, medical, and educational decisions. For some individuals with disabilities, this will not be an issue. Others may need support. This workshop will share basic information about things that need to be considered as your loved one turns 18.

Science Museum of Virginia Event- Minds of All Kinds
2025-11-21 16:00 - 20:00 | Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA, 23220
Enjoy a less crowded environment as you get hands-on with activities designed to pique curiosity and inspire discovery. The event features accommodations for sensitivities to lights and sounds.

Navigate through our Speed and Boost exhibitions at your own pace.
Get hands on with a special challenge in The Forge.
Meet spiders, cockroaches and more critters in the Animal Lab.
Stop by the Eco Lab and learn more about our STEM Garden. How many different plant varieties can you identify?
Embark on an epic journey through the cosmos, or travel to an elusive place on Earth. Whether you see an astronomy show or giant screen film in The Dome, we can guarantee the ultimate “you are there” experience.
… and so much more!

Minds of All Kinds admission is free. Registration is required.
Thanks to our partners at Virginia Voice, SOAR365, Autism Society of Central Virginia, Friendship Circle of Virginia, Down Syndrome Association of Greater Richmond and the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired for collaborating on this event.

Children's Museum of Richmond Event: SENSORY-FRIENDLY NIGHTS – Downtown
2025-11-21 17:00 - 19:00 | Children’s Museum of Richmond – Downtown, 2626 W Broad St, Richmond, VA, 23220
The Children’s Museum is excited to host a FREE night for families with children with disabilities on the third Friday of each month from 5:00-7:00 pm.
Families can register in advance via the link below or can register in-person upon arrival.
A cool down room will be available and sensory supports provided. We can’t wait to play with you!

Senior Schmooze- A Native American Experience
2025-11-25 14:00 - 16:00 | Congregation Or Atid, 10625 Patterson Ave., Richmond, VA, 23238, United States
Immerse yourself in a vibrant, colorful, cultural experience!
Meet the Wolf Creek Cherokee Tribe of Virginia
*Live pow-wow drum circle
*Traditional dancer
*Artifacts and stories shared by Chief Grey Bird (Terry Price) and tribal members
Open to all ages-everyone is welcome!
In partnership with:
Congregation Or Atid Senior Club
Friendship Circle of Virginia
Jewish Family Services
Jewish Community Federation of Richmond

VDSA and FCVA Event: Teen Movie Night: Zootopia 2
2025-11-30 00:00 | Regal Cinemas: West Tower, 8998 W Broad St., Richmond, VA, 23294, United States
Save the Date!
Details and time to come!

Henrico County Public Library Event: Adaptive Storytime
2025-12-01 15:30 - 16:00 | Tuckahoe Area Library, 1901 Starling Dr, Henrico, Virginia, 23229
Best for ages 1-12 and all abilities with an adult. Designed to be welcoming for neurodivergent children, this inclusive storytime incorporates movement, music, stories, sensory activities, and play. Activities presented generally fall within a preschool interest level. Siblings and therapists are welcome.
Registration is required for all attendees (including parents/caregivers) and opens one week before the storytime. Please call the Tuckahoe Library at (804) 501-1910 if you need help with registration.

PEATC Event: Empowering Parents: Unlocking the Power of the Right Questions
2025-12-02 06:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
Are you ready to feel more confident in meetings and everyday conversations with your child’s school?
Join us for an empowering webinar designed for families navigating special education services. You’ll gain practical tools and strategies to help you:

Ask the right questions
Advocate effectively for your child’s unique needs
Build strong, collaborative relationships with teachers and school staff

Become a key partner in your child’s education and walk away with confidence to help your child get the support they need to thrive!
Free and open to all families – Register Now!

Henrico County Public Library Event: Adaptive Storytime
2025-12-02 10:30 - 11:00 | Varina Area Library, 1875 New Market Rd, Henrico, Virginia, 23231
Best for ages 1-12 and all abilities with an adult. Designed to be welcoming for neurodivergent children, this inclusive storytime incorporates movement, music, stories, sensory activities, and play. Activities presented generally fall within a preschool interest level. Siblings and therapists are welcome.
Registration is required for all attendees (including parents/caregivers) and opens one week before the storytime. Please call the Varina Library at (804) 501-1980 if you need help with registration.

ASCV Event: Youth Meetup at Lewis Ginter Gardenfest of Lights
2025-12-02 16:00 - 16:30 | lewis ginter, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA, 23228
Preschool and elementary-age youth and their families are invited to join us for a meetup at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s GardenFest of Lights. Celebrate the start of the winter season with a peaceful stroll around acres of beautiful gardens illuminated with millions of lights!

ASCV Event: Indoor Rock Climbing with Beyond Boundaries (Ages 5-12)
2025-12-04 17:30 - 19:00 | Peak Experiences Midlothian, 11421 Polo Cir, Midlothian, 23113, United States
Autistic youth (ages 5-12) are invited to join the ASCV and Beyond Boundaries for indoor rock climbing!

New and experienced climbers alike are invited to join! No prior experience is necessary
All equipment including harness and shoes are provided, though you may wear your own closed-toe shoes if you like.
A caregiver must remain on-site with their participant for the duration of the program (you do not need to register the caregiver)

ASCV Event- Youth Class at River City Inclusive Gym (Ages 2-8)
2025-12-06 15:00 - 15:45 | River City Inclusive Gym, 11248 Patterson Ave, Richmond, VA, 23238
The ASCV is excited to partner with River City Inclusive Gym (RCIG) to offer monthly youth exercise classes! These inclusive gym classes engage each athlete physically and mentally, helping to facilitate coordination, strength, endurance, communication, and social skills. Adaptations are made on the spot in order to meet the individual needs of each athlete.

With the help of their caregivers and RCIG’s skilled coaches, athletes will rotate through four different obstacles courses during the class. As they go through the course, every obstacle or piece of equipment is adapted to meet individual needs if necessary.

NOTE
Caregivers must remain on-site for the duration of the program.

ASCV Event-Youth Class at River City Inclusive Gym (Ages 5-13)
2025-12-06 16:00 - 16:45 | River City Inclusive Gym, 11248 Patterson Ave, Richmond, VA, 23238

PEATC Event: Anatomy of an IEP
2025-12-11 18:00 - 19:30 | OB Gates Elementary School, 10001 Courthouse Rd., Chesterfield, VA, 23832, United States
Feeling overwhelmed by the IEP process? You’re not alone.
This parent-friendly presentation breaks down each part of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) in clear, simple terms. You’ll learn what each section means, why it matters, and how it all works together to support your child’s learning and growth.
Walk away with practical tips and insights to help you confidently participate in the IEP process and advocate for your child’s right to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
*IN-PERSON WORKSHOP*

Chanukah on Ice
2025-12-14 17:30 - 19:30 | SkateNation Plus, 4350 Pouncey Tract Rd, Glen Allen, VA, 23060
Friendship Circle Families & Teen Friends are invited to our special December Birthday Circle. Come skate, play, and celebrate together!
You do NOT have to be Jewish to attend!
When: Sunday, December 14, 5:30–7:30pmWhere: Skate Nation Plus
Children can choose either free skating or free laser tag (FCVA will cover one activity per child), enjoy our sensory room, and make winter-themed crafts.
Light refreshments and cupcakes will be provided.
Skate assists will be available.
Attendance Requirement:This event is open to families and teen friends who have completed the Join Our Circle form (it’s free!) or who have attended at least one Friendship Circle event prior to November 2025. Any families who have attended our events but have not yet “joined our circle” are encouraged to do so. There is no membership fee.
***Any families who sign up after 12/10 will not be guaranteed a teen friend to be paired with your child with disabilities.***
This event is sponsored by QTS Data Centers and the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.
RSVP: https://friendshipcircleva.org/chanukahonice/

Children's Museum of Richmond Event: Sensory Friendly Nights: Chesterfield
2025-12-19 17:00 - 19:00 | Children’s Museum of Richmond – Chesterfield, 6629 Lake Harbour Dr, Midlothian, VA, 23220

VDSA Event: Richmond Respite Event
2025-12-20 14:00 - 17:00 | Virginia Down Syndrome Association, 1504 Santa Rosa Rd, Richmond, VA, 23229
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!

Va Museum of History and Culture Event- Sensory Friendly Morning
2025-12-30 09:00 - 11:00 | Virginia Museum of History and Culture, 428 Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, Va, 23220, United States
Visitors are invited to enjoy a sensory friendly morning at the museum from 9:00am-11:00am with modified sounds, lights, and hands-on experiences that focus on the VMHC’s signature temporary exhibit Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation. This exhibition will close on January 4th, 2026, making this one of the last chances to experience this unique anniversary show.
Our education team will be on hand to facilitate learning with replica Revolutionary War artifacts, mystery objects, and a create your own tri-corn hat craft.

Henrico County Public Library Event: Adaptive Storytime
2026-01-08 10:00 - 10:30 | Fairfield Area Library, 1401 N Laburnum Ave, Richmond, VA, 23223
Best for ages 1-12 and all abilities with an adult. Designed to be welcoming for neurodivergent children, this inclusive storytime incorporates movement, music, stories, sensory activities, and play. Activities presented generally fall within a preschool interest level. Siblings and therapists are welcome.
Registration is required for all attendees (including parents/caregivers) and opens one week before the storytime. Please call the Fairfield Library at (804) 501-1930 if you need help with registration.

Henrico County Public Library Event: Adaptive Storytime
2026-01-12 15:30 - 16:00 | Tuckahoe Area Library, 1901 Starling Dr, Henrico, Virginia, 23229
Best for ages 1-12 and all abilities with an adult. Designed to be welcoming for neurodivergent children, this inclusive storytime incorporates movement, music, stories, sensory activities, and play. Activities presented generally fall within a preschool interest level. Siblings and therapists are welcome.
Registration is required for all attendees (including parents/caregivers) and opens one week before the storytime. Please call the Tuckahoe Library at (804) 501-1910 if you need help with registration.

Date:

Northstar Event: Post-Secondary Programs: Life After Graduation
2026-01-13 17:00 - 18:30 | Virtual
Northstar Career Center presents: “Post-Secondary Programs: Life After Graduation.”

Join us!
Northstar Career Center presents:
Post-Secondary Programs: Life After Graduation
Learn about:

IDEA versus ADA: How accommodations work after high school graduation
Degree programs versus non-degree programs
Ways to individualize your timeline beyond the four year mentality

Keynote speakers:

Kelly Magee – Courage to Succeed
Sarah Thompson – Commonwealth Autism

For more information about Northstar, visit: NorthstarVA.org

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

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!

This Moms’ Night is hosted by Virginia Down Syndrome Association in partnership with All Needs Planning, Carroll Compass Consulting, Friendship Circle of Virginia, and Jacob’s Chance.
Register here! https://friendshipcircleva.org/momsnight/

PEATC Event: Cracking the Code: 504s and IEPs
2026-01-15 18:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
Confused about the difference between a 504 Plan and an Individualized Education Program (IEP)? You’re not alone!

Join us for a webinar that decodes these school supports. We’ll break down what each option is designed to do, who qualifies, the services and accommodations they offer, and how each one helps unlock success for students with disabilities.
Uncover clues to help you determine which option might be the best match for your child’s learning needs and walk away with key information to make confident decisions and to advocate for your child.
Ready to crack the code?

Children's Museum of Richmond Event: Sensory Friendly Nights – Chesterfield
2026-01-16 17:00 - 19:00 | Children’s Museum of Richmond – Chesterfield, 6629 Lake Harbour Dr, Midlothian, VA, 23220
The Children’s Museum is excited to host a FREE night for families with children with disabilities on the third Friday of each month from 5:00-7:00 pm.
Families can check-in at the front desk upon arrival.
A cool down room will be available and sensory supports provided. We can’t wait to play with you!

3rd Annual Disability Expo
2026-01-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Dewey Gottwald Center, 301 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA, 23220
Friendship Circle of Virginia is proud to present the 3rd Annual Disability Expo, generously sponsored by QTS Data Centers and teh Jewish Community Federation of Richmond!
Join us at the Dewey Gottwald Center for this powerful, community-wide event that brings together nonprofits, service providers, and businesses offering vital resources and support for individuals with disabilities, from infants to seniors, and their families.
Whether you’re seeking services and program, looking to connect, or just want to learn more, there’s something for everyone.
“As a parent of a child with multiple disabilities who is transitioning to high school, the Friendship Circle Disability Expo helped me connect with so many resources in and around the Richmond area that I didn’t know existed for our family. I left feeling informed, empowered, and supported by my community.” – A Parent
“What an incredible event! So beneficial to gather all the resources in one space!” – A non-profit organization
All are welcome! Come explore, discover, and connect!
