The Intellectual Disabilities Agency of the New River Valley (IDA), established in 1965, supports therapeutic, educational, social and recreational programs for persons with Intellectual Disabilities in the New River Valley.
Resources are provided to enable clients of all ages access to educational, recreational and developmental programs. These activities give them opportunities to participate more fully and actively in their community and provide some respite to their families. IDA is one of the few organization that offer events and activities for this population.
During Covid, IDA had to cancel all programing for its clients, as they were more vulnerable to the disease. The lack of outside activities negatively affected them physically and mentally as well. Funding for the programs was greatly restricted.
Under the new Executive Director, Denise Helland, expanded activities are underway.
These activities include art classes, stretchercize classes and Bingo. Previous activities will continue as well, including cooking classes, dances, the Fishing Rodeo and collaboration with Special Olympics for bowling, basketball, volleyball and other events.
To re-energize the agency’s efforts, the Board of Directors is arranging for two fundraising events: The Annual Wine/Beer Tasting and Silent Auction, Friday, April 21, 6 – 8:30 p.m., and The Annual Golf Tournament, Monday, August 14, in the afternoon.
Both events will take place at the Blacksburg Country Club in beautiful Ellett Valley. The IDA id seeking auction items for the silent auction, as well as tee sponsors and prizes for the golf tournament.
Earl Brown, President of the Board of Directors, says the IDA provides important quality of life benefits for its clients.
“The children and adults who participate with this agency will always need these services,” said Brown. “When children begin participating with IDA, they will most likely be accessing these activities for their lifetime. In fact, most adults have been participating with IDA since they were children. Participation has steadily grown over the years, which reflects the quality of the activities and programs.”
The Board would like to thank individuals and merchants for their generosity over the years supporting IDA to make its fundraising activities successful. In the upcoming weeks, members will be contacting business owners and individuals regarding donations for the two fundraisers.
If you are interested in assisting, donating or attending these events, please contact Denise Helland, Executive Director, at denise@idanrv.org. or by text/phone 540-381-0310.
We thank you in advance for your generous support.
Submitted by The Intellectual Disabilities Agency of the New River Valley