Peer Mentors Corner:

Community Engagement

Dash & Scout strives to translate skills learned into real-life experiences that are meaningful for our participants and the communities in which they live. That's why we're sharing a little more about our participants and peer mentors beyond the doors of Dave's Place!

SARAH

This past month, peer mentor, Sarah, has been busy in our community! In addition to her job at Commonwealth Senior Living, she volunteered as the DJ at the Nest Academy RVA Prom and proudly displayed her original art at the Crossridge Art Show. Great job strengthening our community while showcasing your unique talents, Sarah!

Independent Living Programs Central: Welcome, DSANV VIP's!

On the last weekend in April, we kicked off a new kind of Dave's Place experience! We were thrilled to partner with the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV) to welcome four amazing DSANV VIP's. Executive Directors Terri Lancaster (D&S) and Alain Noriega (DSANV) celebrated this opportunity to work together.

Many thanks to our peer mentor, Ashley High, and our top-notch teachers, Jennie, Meg, and Gaby. Your time and talents brought to life this special weekend of independent-living-skill-building unique to Dave's Place. Meet our VIP's soon on Facebook and Instagram!

LEARN MORE ABOUT DAVE’S PLACE & APPLY

GET INFORMED BY GABY

In her May Note, our inspiring Program Director, Gaby Osborne Brooks, answers one of her most frequently asked questions: “Why should my loved one apply to Dave’s Place?”

“After we talk about routines at home, building independence, and preparing for new experiences, the next question is often, ‘Why should my loved one apply to Dave’s Place?’

Dave’s Place is more than just a weekend away. It is a starting point.

It is a place where participants get to practice independence in a real-life setting, with…” CONTINUE READING

Teacher Shout-Outs!

Our teachers are the backbone of Dash & Scout. We're especially proud of two of our top-notch teachers this month!

We're sending big congrats to Meg Blaum upon earning her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Virginia Commonwealth University!

We're also super proud of Liza Rennie. She was named a Finalist for Chesterfield County Public Schools' New Teacher of the Year! Liza is a special education teacher at Bettie Weaver Elementary.

We're so grateful to have both of you on our growing team! Your dedication, expertise, and compassion drive our mission and inspire us all!



Meet Our Board

We’re proud to begin to introduce our talented Board of Directors who have driven Dash and Scout’s overwhelming success over the last two and half years.

MEET SHERI

As the parent of a 20 year old daughter with Down syndrome, I always wonder what will happen if I’m no longer able to care for her. Will she be capable of living in the community? How do I help give her the skills necessary to be more independent? Dash and Scout is helping to address these concerns. Being on the board helps me to be at the forefront of developing the best.possible.. Continue reading about Sheri

MEET JILL

My "why" for serving on the Dash & Scout Board is my creative, kind, funny and inspiring 24-year-old daughter with Down syndrome, Hope, and the many wonderful people she's brought into our lives.  

I am the Creative Director and owner of Jill Taylor Creative, designing websites and brands for medium sized businesses. 

I enjoy all things... Continue reading about Jill

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39th Annual Down Syndrome Benefit Softball Tournament a Success!

Thanks to all the teams and supporters who came out for both weekends of the 39th Annual Down Syndrome Benefit Softball Tournament in March and April! The event raised over $63,000 and hosted over 60 teams! Check out all the fun in photos here!

It was also such fun to see our past and future participants and friends play in the Annual D&S Game! Special thanks to Special Olympics Area 31 for partnering with us and to Moody Middle school volunteers who manned the outfield. Watch our video here!

Special thanks to our many sponsors and donors throughout the state whose generosity will help fuel Dash & Scout's future! Check out our sponsors:

Truist Wealth, Estes Express Lines, Richmond East Moose Lodge, Dugout Bar & Grille, Dudley Softball Serious, Henrico Sports and Entertainment Authority, Play Chesterfield, and CP Dean!

Check back here soon for our 2027 Tournament dates!

Inaugural Dash Bash: Relive the Memories!

Enjoy a trip down memory lane as we celebrated Dash & Scout turning two earlier this year! Find your friends and family in our full catalog of photos from the evening!

Check back here soon for our 2nd Annual Dash Bash date!