Overcoming Obstacles, Encouraging Abilities

The Developmental Disabilities Association maximizes the potential of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through lifelong programs, supports, and advocacy. Over 2,400 individuals and families in the Vancouver and Richmond area are served by the Developmental Disabilities Association every year.

DDA’s public awareness campaign has launched. 

This campaign is not about the DDA. It’s about people. People who are too often unheard. So, what do they have to say? Watch and find out, you might be surprised.

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

Carmen Farrell – Proof that Advocacy Makes a Difference

In this episode, we connect with North Vancouver mom, author, and advocate Carmen G. Farrell. From driving change in her son’s school to continuing to champion advocacy, it’s proof that inclusion doesn’t just create allies, it creates bonds that stand the test of time.

Max Brault – Helping Shape the Future of Accessibility

Max Brault was instrumental in helping create the Accessibility Canada Act. While he admits we might not hit the lofty goal of a completely accessible Canada by 2040, the future for people with disabilities remains bright. We caught up with him to talk about his book, “The Race to the Starting Line.”

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

DDA Annual Report 2025/2026

Building on the momentum of last year, DDA is driving forward with pride, purpose, and perseverance. Driving Change – Evolution in Real Time reflects our commitment to adapting and responding to a changing environment while staying grounded in what matters most: supporting people with developmental disabilities to live meaningful lives as valued members of their …

The DDA Star – Summer 2026 Edition

Welcome to the newest edition of our Star Magazine! Wow, what a difference 3 months makes. DDA and its clients have been busy! From launching a public service campaign to making the earth a better place, we continue to foster inclusion and fun.

DDA Launches New PSA

On March 30th, DDA launched a new public service announcement across CTV BC and DDA social channels.

DDA Careers

Community Support Worker | Permanent Full Time – #2213

Why do people select a particular job? Money, schedule, and fun? How about all of that? Developmental Disabilities Association needs a Community Support Worker (CSW) to assist clients with their physical, vocational, recreational, social, emotional, and daily life skill development. The CSW supports clients to achieve the greatest degree of independence and quality of life …

Community Support Worker | Permanent Full Time – #2212

Why do people select a particular job? Money, schedule, and fun? How about all of that? Developmental Disabilities Association needs a Community Support Worker (CSW) to assist clients with their physical, vocational, recreational, social, emotional, and daily life skill development. The CSW supports clients to achieve the greatest degree of independence and quality of life …

Community Support Worker | Permanent Part Time – #2210

Why do people select a particular job? Money, schedule, and fun? How about all of that? Developmental Disabilities Association needs a Community Support Worker (CSW) to assist clients with their physical, vocational, recreational, social, emotional, and daily life skill development. The CSW supports clients to achieve the greatest degree of independence and quality of life …