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
MakeGood – Using the Latest Tech to Create an Accessible World
Noam Platt is the founder of MakeGood, an organization in Louisiana specializing in designing and building devices for people with disabilities. We caught up with him about how new technologies are making it easier and cheaper to build an accessible world.
Accessibility on Vancouver Island
He moved to Canada from the UK about 20 years ago and never left. We chat with accessibility consultant Ramesh Lad who aims to make Vancouver Island accessible to all.
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
September is FASD Awareness Month
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) represent a range of conditions that can lead to a variety of physical, behavioral, and cognitive challenges that affect individuals throughout their lives.
Celebrating Disability Employment Month: Why Recognition Matters
September is Disability Employment Month in British Columbia, a time dedicated to highlighting the significance of inclusive employment practices and advocating for the full participation of people with disabilities in the workforce.
New School Year – Inclusion Benefits All
Schools that are inclusive of students with developmental disabilities represent a significant step toward creating a more equitable, compassionate, and understanding society. Here in BC, DDA’s founders were innovators in this concept. It started with a special needs school in Oakridge in 1961 and by the 80s, schools in BC were fully inclusive.
DDA Careers
Child and Youth Worker | Permanent Part Time – #1921
Is shaping the minds of the next generation part of your life’s calling? The Developmental Disabilities Association has an immediate opening for a Child and Youth Worker position. This role ensures the provision of an enriched leisure program by providing opportunities for learning and skill development. The Child and Youth Worker ensures that the activities …
Child and Youth Worker | Permanent Part Time – #1920
Is shaping the minds of the next generation part of your life’s calling? The Developmental Disabilities Association has an immediate opening for a Child and Youth Worker position. Since 1952, Developmental Disabilities Association has been helping thousands of people in BC with developmental disabilities reach their full potential through support and advocacy. We create extended …
Early Childhood Educator | Permanent Full Time – #1917
Developmental Disabilities Association has an opening for Early Childhood Educator for our Child and Youth Services programs. You bring a great attitude backed up with completed ECE certification and at least one year experience in the field. We encourage professional development, provide on-the-job training, and foster an inclusive work environment. Our Child Development Centers are …
