Developmental Disabilities Association

09/01/2026

September is FASD Awareness Month.

Let's take the time to recognize the condition, improve prevention, and offer support to the people who need it.

The Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network (CanFASD) is a collaborative, interdisciplinary research network, with collaborators, researchers and partners across the nation. It is Canada’s first comprehensive national Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) research network. It star...

09/01/2026

🚨Child Care Announcement🚨

Families across B.C. will have more options for before- and after-school care, with 22 school districts receiving funding to create about 1,200 new child care spaces in existing schools over the next year.

Having child care right where kids go to school can make a big difference for families, helping make busy mornings and afternoons a little easier. Families who use these new spaces will also benefit from reduced fees through the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative.

Funding helps districts create, expand child care programs

08/31/2026

There is one week to go!🍎📖

Then it's waking up early, making lunches, and getting organized for school. It also means collecting school supplies. 📒🖊️📐

However, for some students, a different approach is necessary. Here are some suggestions for adaptive supplies and where to find them.

The big scramble is upon us! The scramble of parents running around and getting school supplies for the new school year. That usually means pencils, notebooks, scissors, and binders. But for some students, everyday school supplies can create barriers to learning and participation. Adaptive school su...

08/28/2026

Looking for a space for your 3–5-year-old? 🌿

River Run in Richmond currently has spaces available for children ages 3 to 5!

Our program provides a welcoming, inclusive environment where children can learn, play, build friendships, and develop important skills while being supported by our caring Early Childhood Educators.

If you’re looking for a place where your child can play, learn, and grow, we’d love to hear from you.

📍 River Run, 10277 River Drive, Richmond, BC
👧 Ages 3–5
📩 Contact us through the link or the QR code to learn more about available spaces and how to register.

https://www.develop.bc.ca/programs/children-and-youth/childcare-application-form/

08/27/2026

Whether on land or on the sea, it's important to take advantage of what BC has to offer when it comes to the beautiful outdoors!

A big thanks to the British Columbia Mobility Opportunities Society (BCMOS) for getting Kam and Carol out on False Creek and hitting the trail with adaptive hiking.

It’s great to see people getting active, trying new things, and enjoying everything our incredible province has to offer - in a very inclusive way!

08/25/2026

We don’t often post about the deaths of celebrities. But Dolly Parton is different.

Dolly has spent decades being an advocate, an ally, and a champion for people who are too often overlooked or underestimated.

What makes Dolly particularly remarkable is that inclusion was never just a talking point. She believed in giving people a chance, meeting people where they are, and creating opportunities for people to build better lives.

She showed us that you can be enormously successful without losing your generosity, your humility or your sense of responsibility to others.

In a world that feels increasingly divided, we could use a few more like her. Rest in peace.

Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80 years old.

Dolly is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years Carl Thomas Dean (1942 – 2025), her mother Avie Lee Caroline Owens (1923 – 2003), and father, Robert Lee Parton, Sr. (1921 – 2000).

A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.

At Dolly’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family. Dolly’s fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media by tagging or by leaving a message at www.dollyparton.com

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library at www.imaginationlibrary.com

08/24/2026

As we begin a new fiscal year, we’re pleased to welcome several new members to the Developmental Disabilities Association’s Board of Directors and to welcome Patricia Barnes as our new President.

Our new and returning directors bring a wealth of expertise, professional backgrounds, and, for some, a lived experience within the developmental disabilities community.

We’re grateful for the commitment and passion they bring to the table, and excited for the leadership they’ll provide as DDA continues to grow and strengthen the supports for the people we serve.

Please join us in welcoming our new directors and congratulating Patricia Barnes as she takes on the role of President. We look forward to the year ahead!

https://www.develop.bc.ca/about-us/the-dda-board-of-directors/

08/23/2026

DDA's art program is essential to the development of the clients who take part.

And it's fun too!

This past week, DDA had roughly 70 artists represented at a showing at the Unitarian Church in Vancouver. By the closing reception, 26 artists had sold pieces totaling $990 in art sales, with all proceeds going back to the artists.

Such a fantastic time for our wonderful art team and all our talented DDA artists!

08/21/2026

Sometimes the determinant of success is a little support.

At DDA, we offer several family support groups this fall in a few different languages, and they're FREE.

Check out the link in the comments for the latest information and how to register for our Family Support Groups.

08/21/2026

Worth a share, if for nothing else, the doggos. Also, stay protected from the sun!

Have a great weekend!