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
Rising from the Ashes – One Man’s Life Turns to Advocacy
Mike Shoreman was a regular guy running a paddle-boarding business in Ontario until Ramsay Hunt syndrome struck him down and forced him to re-evaluate his life. Since then he has become a staunch advocate for the disability and mental health communities, showing how overcoming adversity is in all of us.
BC Artist/Author Creates Kids’ Books that Focus on Diversity
Roz Maclean is a wonderful artist who hails from the Comox Valley. She has turned her passion and vision into a successful line of children’s books that teach inclusion and diversity. www.rozmaclean.com
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 Welcomes Mark Zuberbuhler as its New Executive Director
With the retirement of Alanna Hendren, DDA’s long-serving Executive Director, the DDA Board of Directors conducted a nation-wide search for her replacement. We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Zuberbuhler as DDA’s new Executive Director.
A 2025 New Year’s Resolution: Building a World for Everyone
As we step into the New Year, many of us are making resolutions to improve ourselves or our lives. New Year, New Me, as they say. But this year, let’s challenge ourselves to think beyond personal goals. What if we focused on making the world a better place for others, especially those whose voices are often unheard? This year, resolve to create a more inclusive, accessible, and diverse world.
Manitoba: Closing the Last Institution
In a momentous step towards inclusion and equity, Manitoba has announced the closure of its last remaining institution for people with developmental disabilities. On Human Rights Day (Dec. 10th), the Manitoba Development Centre closed its doors for the last time.
DDA Careers
Residential Care Worker | Permanent Full Time – #1958
The Developmental Disabilities Association (DDA) has been a leader for advocacy and inclusion in BC for families with special needs since 1952, and now we need you. We have an opening in one of our group homes in Vancouver for a Residential Care Worker (RCW) to assist with residents’ physical, emotional, social, and recreational needs. …
Community Support Worker | Temporary Full Time – #1955
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 – #1953
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 …
