Overcoming Obstacles, Encouraging Abilities

The Developmental Disabilities Association maximizes the potential of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through life-long programs, supports, and advocacy. Over 1,800 individuals and families in the Vancouver and Richmond area are served by the Developmental Disabilities Association every year.

Programs

Infant Development Program

The Infant Development Program (IDP) is a family-centered, home-based, consultative program that serves children from birth to three years of age who have developmental disabilities or are at risk of developmental delays.

Children & Youth

Our quality programs support children and their families to develop understanding, acceptance, and respect for diversity. We provide a range of services including inclusive childcare and school-age programs, youth, leisure, and social programs, and children’s respite.

Adult Services

Adult Services supports adults with developmental disabilities as well as their families in Vancouver and Richmond. From day programs to respite services to 24/7 assisted living, our programs are designed to increase individuals’ involvement and contribution to the communities they live in.

Family Support Services

Family Support Services is designed to provide information and guidance to families of those with developmental disabilities.

Recent Podcasts

CURIKO – Filling the Spaces in Between

Community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities is and always will be a driving force for DDA. However, here in 2024, some new players and organizations are emerging to fill the spaces in between to help broaden horizons and cultivate relationships for people of all abilities. Say hello to CURIKO.

The Life That’s Chosen Me – From Russia with Love

Making personal sacrifices for your partner’s career is one thing, creating a home in several countries while at the same time caring for a severely disabled child is another. We caught up with Rachelle Rosolofo-Czerwinski to talk about her new memoir, The Life That’s Chosen Me – From Russia With Love.

DDA Documentary

Inspired by the birth of a boy with Down syndrome, one mother’s bold choice not to institutionalize her child and challenge the status quo led to the formation of an organization that would impact the lives of thousands, inspire generations to fight for human rights and significantly change Canada’s legal and social landscape for people with developmental disabilities. This is our story.

Recent News

April: Celebrating Autistic Acceptance Month

As April unfolds the cherry blossoms in the Lower Mainland, it also heralds the arrival of Autism Acceptance Month.

Universal Design – Accessibility for Literally Everyone

The City of Richmond, along with the government of BC, announced a new affordable housing development at 5491 No. 2 Road as part of the Homes for People Action Plan. Certainly, this is good news for the city, for the most part.

International Women’s Day and the Role of Caregivers

March is Women’s History Month, which coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8th. DDA has a rich history involving women. The association was started by a young woman in 1952 and many of the innovations the association brought to the mainstream were started by, you guessed It, women.

DDA Careers

#1869 – Awake Night Staff | Permanent Part Time

If you have health care education and experience working with people with developmental disabilities, then we might have the perfect position for you. The Developmental Disabilities Association is seeking Awake Night Staff (AWNS) for a position in our Vancouver and Richmond based group homes to help support B.C.’s most vulnerable population. The AWNS provides a …

Summer Program Worker – Residential Care Worker | Temporary Full time – #1868

Are you looking to initiate your career in a field where you help others? Then, this position is for you. Summer community service workers will assist in the enrichment of the Residential programs and services. Since 1952, Developmental Disabilities Association has been helping thousands of people in BC with developmental disabilities reach their full potential …

Summer Program Worker – Residential Care Worker | Temporary Full time – #1867

Are you looking to initiate your career in a field where you help others? Then, this position is for you. Summer community service workers will assist in the enrichment of the Residential programs and services. Since 1952, Developmental Disabilities Association has been helping thousands of people in BC with developmental disabilities reach their full potential …