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.
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 new Executive Director Denise Helland, expanded activities are underway including two fundraising events: the annual wine/beer tasting and silent auction on Friday, April 21, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and the annual golf tournament on Monday, Aug. 14, in the afternoon.
Both events will take place at the Blacksburg Country Club in Ellett Valley. The IDA is seeking auction items for the silent auction as well as tee sponsors and prizes for the golf tournament.
Earl Brown, President of the IDA’s 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,” Brown said. “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.”
In the upcoming weeks, IDA members will be contacting business owners and individuals regarding donations for the two fundraisers.
Anyone interested in assisting, donating, or attending these events should contact executive director Denise Helland at denise@idanrv.org. or by text/phone 540-381-0310.
Submitted by The Intellectual Disabilities Agency of the New River Valley
