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
Adelle Purdham – I Don’t do Disability and Other Lies I’ve Told Myself
Receiving the news that your unborn child has Down syndrome can be a shock to parents. In this Encouraging Abilities podcast, we chat with author Adelle Purdham and her emotionally driven book about what it’s like as a parent raising a child with the condition, and how most issues are created largely within ourselves.
The Future is Bright – Students Developing Apps to Aid Disabilities
Not your typical high school students. Jora Singh Nahal and Inbal Tzafrir are motivated and atruistic. The pair of award-winning students are developing applications to benefit the disability community.
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
The DDA Star – Summer 2025 Edition
Welcome to the Summer 2025 edition of our Star Magazine! The last few months have been busy, and it’s been a nice warm spring – let’s hope that means a nice hot summer full of fun!
The Importance of People with Disabilities Voting in Canada’s Federal Election
In Canada, voting is a fundamental right, and it’s crucial that people with disabilities of any kind fully participate in federal elections. With nearly 6.2 million Canadians identifying as having a disability, their voices represent a significant portion of the population.
Arlington 55C and 99CD Staff and Clients Remember the Victims of the Lapu Lapu Tragedy
On Saturday, April 26th, the unthinkable happened. A man drove an SUV into a crowd of people during the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver, killing 11 people and injuring many more.
DDA Careers
Early Childhood Educator | Permanent Part Time – #2022
Developmental Disabilities Association has an immediate opening for an Early Childhood Educator in our Early Learning 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 …
Community Support Worker | Permanent Full Time – #2021
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 …
Early Childhood Educator | Permanent Part Time – #1991
Developmental Disabilities Association has an immediate opening for an Early Childhood Educator in our Early Learning 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 …
