UPCOMING EVENTS

Workshop: Employment Tips for Job Seekers with Disabilities
Effective Job Search & Interview Tips for Job Seekers with Disabilities
Join us for a comprehensive workshop designed to provide job seekers with disabilities the tools, confidence, and strategies to succeed in the competitive job market. Whether you’re creating your first resume, navigating job boards, or preparing for your next interview, this workshop will offer practical support and personalized advice to help you achieve your career goals. You’ll leave the event with not only new skills but also the confidence to advocate for your abilities and needs in the workplace.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/workshop-employment-tips-for-job-seekers-with-disabilities-tickets-1130695764469?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

TOP Soccer
Come to our first meeting of TOP Soccer for this Spring season! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

TOP Soccer
Join us for TOP Soccer this Spring season! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.


Lucky & Blessed "Invasive" Fishing Tournament
Learn more here:
https://givebutter.com/0wRiML

TOP Soccer
Come get some kicks in at the TOP Soccer Spring season! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

So Kids SOAR Baseball 2025
WHAT: So Kids SOAR will be bringing together youth with physical and developmental disabilities, their families, and volunteers for a morning on the baseball field.
WHO: This event is open to youth and young adults from ages 4-30 with disabilities of any type. Everyone can participate, regardless of ability.
Participants- This clinic is open to youth with physical and developmental disabilities - their siblings are welcome too! No previous experience is required. Instructors and equipment will be provided for all participants. Just show up- So Kids SOAR and The Miracle League will take care of the rest!
Volunteers- Must be at least age 15 or over and have been a previous So Kids SOAR volunteer; those who register who are not first-time volunteers must email glenda@sokidssoar.org first. Volunteers - please note that there will be no area for your belongings, please keep your important items with you at all times or leave them locked in the car. We are not liable for lost, stolen, or missing items.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/so-kids-soar-baseball-2025-tickets-1211461527039?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

TOP Soccer
Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

TOP Soccer
Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

TOP Soccer
Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

So Kids SOAR Prom
For individuals ages 13-30, and their siblings or cousins.
So Kids SOAR is organizing a prom for young adults with physical and developmental disabilities. We are excited to bring back this annual event where our participants and volunteers can let loose, dance to great music, and celebrate with each other! Our past themes have been: Galactic Space Adventure, Adventure Awaits, Under The Sea, Under The Big Top, A Starry Night, A Magical Kingdom, Superheroes and A Wizarding World. This year, we encourage all of our guests to dress up like they're in a western or going to their favorite rodeo! Think cowboys, cowgirls, cowpeople and farming friends!
So Kids SOAR está organizando un baile de graduación para adultos jóvenes con discapacidades físicas y de desarrollo. ¡Estamos emocionados de traer de vuelta este evento anual donde nuestros participantes y voluntarios pueden soltarse, bailar con buena música y celebrar entre ellos! Nuestros temas anteriores han sido: Aventura espacial galáctica, Aventura espera, Bajo el mar, Bajo la gran carpa, Una noche estrellada, un reino mágico, Superhéroes y Un Mundo Mágico. ¡Este año, animamos a todos nuestros invitados a vestirse como si estuvieran en un western o yendo a su rodeo favorito! ¡Piensa en vaqueros, vaqueras, vaqueros y amigos granjeros!


TOP Soccer
Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

TOP Soccer - LAST SESSION
Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.
· Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).
· There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.
· Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys.
· As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.
· Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.
· Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name.
· Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
· Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

Dine Out for Disabilities
Once again our wonderful partners at The Original Pancake House in Falls Church will host Dine Out for People with Disabilities. We love THIS pancake house for the good food and commitment to community service you’ve come to know and appreciate.
15% of proceeds for the entire day will be donated to The Arc of Northern Virginia! So take your family out for breakfast, invite your friends and coworkers to lunch, or order online and take out a great meal. Any way you choose, you’ll get good food and support our mission all at the same time.
Online orders must be through the restaurant’s website and not a third-party platform.

Trust Talk Tuesday, hosted by the ARC of NOVA
These small group discussions will focus on Special Needs Trusts and futures planning. We will walk you through the importance of planning for the future of your loved one with a disability, why trusts are important, and other critical services and programs and benefits that you should consider.
Questions pertaining to general disability issues in regards to future financial planning are welcome.

Transition Parents Support Group
The Arc of Northern Virginia’s Transition Support group meets every other month in person at our offices at 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax, VA 22031. Meetings are a forum to share resources, ask questions, and be surrounded and supported by families who understand the thrills and challenges of navigating life after leaving school. There are occasional guest speakers who provide information about topics of interest. The group is led by Rob Hudson, Communications Associate and Frank Trippett Advocacy and Outreach Fellow. If you have questions, contact him at rob.hudson@thearcofnova.org.
https://thearcofnova.org/event/transition-parents-support-group-4/

From Inclusion to Belonging Conference
Whether you are considering the transition from early intervention and a family service plan to school and an IEP, or the transition from school to a meaningful adult life, you will find resources to help you. We know that caregivers can often feel overwhelmed, stressed and isolated by the process, so we are offering a full day of learning and fellowship that will give you the tools you need to plan for the future.
Speakers include:
Majo Flores, Frank Trippett Spanish Advocacy & Outreach Fellow
Diane Monnig, Director of Programs
Ashley Africa-Osborne, Tech for Independent Living Program Manager
Register here: https://www.portocharities.org/2025conference

FCPS Parent Webinar: Understanding Executive Function for Middle School
FCPS Parent Webinar series continues with a presentation on Understanding Executive Function for Children in Middle School – Milestones, Challenges, & Effective Strategies to Implement at Home.
In this session, on March 14, 2025, you will discover how to support your child’s executive function skills. Gain information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school.
Pre-registration required: https://tinyurl.com/2rvf37ff

Transition Lunch N Learn (the ARC of NoVA)
Live, online virtual meeting on Zoom!
Transition Lunch and Learn is held on the second Thursday of the month, facilitated by Diane Monnig, Director of Programs. These sessions are not recorded. Planning to transition from school to adult services can be overwhelming. Once your child exits the school system, adult services are based on eligibility criteria and funding availability.
https://thearcofnova.org/events/

Super, Awesome, & Amazing Parent’s Night Out @ The St. James
Parents, give yourself a well-deserved night off while the kids have an unforgettable evening of fun at The St. James!
Designed for children ages 6-12, Parent’s Night Out provides a safe, engaging, and structured experience filled with games, dinner, and a movie—all under the supervision of The St. James’ expert team.
While your little ones are having a blast on December 6 & 20, 2024, you can relax, recharge, enjoy a night out, or do some holiday shopping knowing your little helpers are in great hands.
Pre-registration required;https://tinyurl.com/4pkxpxrt.

A Charlie Brown Christmas
A neuro-diverse cast presents this Holiday classic in Leesburg.
Performance schedule:
• Dec 6, 2024 @ 7 pm
• Dec 7, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
• Dec 8, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
• Dec 13, 2024 @ 7 pm
• Dec 14, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
• Dec 15, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
Tickets to the show are $10 for seating and $5 for children-only carpet seating.

Super, Awesome, & Amazing Parent’s Night Out @ The St. James
Parents, give yourself a well-deserved night off while the kids have an unforgettable evening of fun at The St. James!
Designed for children ages 6-12, Parent’s Night Out provides a safe, engaging, and structured experience filled with games, dinner, and a movie—all under the supervision of The St. James’ expert team.
While your little ones are having a blast on December 6 & 20, 2024, you can relax, recharge, enjoy a night out, or do some holiday shopping knowing your little helpers are in great hands.
Pre-registration required;https://tinyurl.com/4pkxpxrt.

A Charlie Brown Christmas
A neuro-diverse cast presents this Holiday classic.in Leesburg.
Performance schedule:
• Dec 6, 2024 @ 7 pm
• Dec 7, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
• Dec 8, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
• Dec 13, 2024 @ 7 pm
• Dec 14, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
• Dec 15, 2024 @ 2 pm & 4 pm
Tickets to the show are $10 for seating and $5 for children-only carpet seating.

Kids C.A.R.E. Club Holiday Pawty @ Animal Welfare League of Arlington
Join the Animal Welfare League of Arlington on December 6, 2024, for a Kids CARE Club (Creating a Responsible Environment) Holiday Paw-ty.
Children ages 4-10 years old (along with a caregiver) will decorate “cookies” for the shelter dogs, create a festive craft, and discover how foster families give pets a warm and loving home—during the holidays and all year long!
While this program is free, donations to the Humane Education Fund are greatly appreciated. Pre-register: https://tinyurl.com/mr2atcsa.

Transitions Lunch and Learn (the ARC of NOVA)
Recurring live, online meeting via ZOOM, on the first Wednesday of each month:
Planning to transition from school to adult services can be overwhelming. Once your child exits the school system, adult services are based on eligibility criteria and funding availability. These small group sessions are an opportunity to begin creating a plan for the future. Learn what employment and meaningful day support services are available, how to explore post-secondary options, what transportation supports exist, how to help your child make decisions and advocate, when to apply for SSI and manage benefits, and what recreation activities are available. This informal opportunity is to ask questions and discuss with the facilitator and other participants.

Sensory Friendly Craft Time (Oct.)
This event if for all crafters, of all ages, who might like a less stimulating environment.
https://tinyurl.com/3dc76zr5

TOP Soccer
Come kick it with us! Wear comfortable clothes, bring water, and let’s run around and have fun.

TOP Soccer
Come kick it with us! Wear comfortable clothes, bring water, and let’s run around and have fun.
Sensory Friendly Mt. Vernon
Mount Vernon invites families with children of all ages on the autism spectrum to enjoy a sensory-friendly morning and tour on September 21, 2024.
Before your visit, you will receive materials to prepare your family for a visit, and upon arrival, you will receive a sensory bag (while supplies last.) Look for the Discovery Cart with a hands-on lesson about the production of textiles at Mount Vernon, explore the historic area and mansion at your own pace, and relax in the take-a-break room.
Registration required: https://tinyurl.com/28pzhjax

Sensory Friendly Craft Time
This event if for all crafters, of all ages, who might like a less stimulating environment.
https://tinyurl.com/3dc76zr5

TOP Soccer
Come kick it with us! Wear comfortable clothes, bring water, and let’s run around and have fun.

Daniel Tiger Grr-iffic Exhibit
New exhibit opens on September 15 and runs until January 5th, 2025. The museum is open from 9:30am-4:30pm daily!

Camp Arc2Independence
In-person Camps:
Dates: July 8-12 (Loudoun); July 29-August 2 and August 12-16 (Fairfax, VA)
Time: 10:00-12:30 PM each day
$35 Registration Fee
Location: The Arc of Northern Virginia Office
Participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities must be 14 years and up.
Mandatory – A dedicated caregiver (18 and over) who commits to full participation for the entire week.
A tablet or smartphone is required for the in-person camp.

Autism Social Club August
This event is from 12:00-1:00p.m. (always on the first Saturday of every month) please RSVP to Dr. Nicci Dowd at autismsoclub@gmail.com.
The Autism Social Club is for high school students through young adults. Hosted by Judah & Adajo Dowd.

Camp Arc2Independence
In-person Camps:
Dates: July 8-12 (Loudoun); July 29-August 2 and August 12-16 (Fairfax, VA)
Time: 10:00-12:30 PM each day
$35 Registration Fee
Location: The Arc of Northern Virginia Office
Participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities must be 14 years and up.
Mandatory – A dedicated caregiver (18 and over) who commits to full participation for the entire week.
A tablet or smartphone is required for the in-person camp.
Summerbration Movie Series
Don’t miss Reston Station’s free outdoor movies on Saturday nights this summer! Plus, select nights feature special activities, like Bubbleologist, pet adoptions, and a car show!
Bring family and friends, as well as lawn chairs and blankets, and get ready to enjoy a movie outside on the big screen.
July 27, 2024
The Sandlot + Event
TOP Sailing
Sailing Details
Primary Sailing Location: Washington Sailing Marina (WSM), 1 Marina Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314
Top Sailing Coordinator: Michael O’Bryan
Phone: (571) 331-6463
Email: obryanm@gmail.com
Sailing Dates: Saturdays, July-Aug
Sailing Times: 7-10am
Secondary Sailing Location: Belle Haven Marina, George Washington Memorial Parkway, Alexandria, VA 22307
Sailing schedule: First hour preparing personnel and materials. Second hour sailing. Third hour cleanup and stowing of materials.
Summerbration Movie Series
Don’t miss Reston Station’s free outdoor movies on Saturday nights this summer! Plus, select nights feature special activities, like Bubbleologist, pet adoptions, and a car show!
Bring family and friends, as well as lawn chairs and blankets, and get ready to enjoy a movie outside on the big screen.
July 20, 2024
Kicking & Screaming + Event
TOP Sailing
Sailing Details
Primary Sailing Location: Washington Sailing Marina (WSM), 1 Marina Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314
Top Sailing Coordinator: Michael O’Bryan
Phone: (571) 331-6463
Email: obryanm@gmail.com
Sailing Dates: Saturdays, July-Aug
Sailing Times: 7-10am
Secondary Sailing Location: Belle Haven Marina, George Washington Memorial Parkway, Alexandria, VA 22307
Sailing schedule: First hour preparing personnel and materials. Second hour sailing. Third hour cleanup and stowing of materials.
Summerbration Movie Series
Don’t miss Reston Station’s free outdoor movies on Saturday nights this summer! Plus, select nights feature special activities, like Bubbleologist, pet adoptions, and a car show!
Bring family and friends, as well as lawn chairs and blankets, and get ready to enjoy a movie outside on the big screen.
July 13, 2024
Bring It On + Event

14th Annual So Kids SOAR adaptive aquatic event
Get your free tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/14th-annual-so-kids-soar-adaptive-water-sports-clinic-tickets-898928899537
**ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST HAVE A PARENT/REGISTER ON-SITE AT ALL TIMES, ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST REGISTER WITH A PARENT/REGISTER**
TOP Sailing
Sailing Details
Primary Sailing Location: Washington Sailing Marina (WSM), 1 Marina Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314
Top Sailing Coordinator: Michael O’Bryan
Phone: (571) 331-6463
Email: obryanm@gmail.com
Sailing Dates: Saturdays, July-Aug
Sailing Times: 7-10am
Secondary Sailing Location: Belle Haven Marina, George Washington Memorial Parkway, Alexandria, VA 22307
Sailing schedule: First hour preparing personnel and materials. Second hour sailing. Third hour cleanup and stowing of materials.

Camp Arc2Independence
In-person Camps:
Dates: July 8-12 (Loudoun); July 29-August 2 and August 12-16 (Fairfax, VA)
Time: 10:00-12:30 PM each day
$35 Registration Fee
Location: The Arc of Northern Virginia Office
Participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities must be 14 years and up.
Mandatory – A dedicated caregiver (18 and over) who commits to full participation for the entire week.
A tablet or smartphone is required for the in-person camp.