Groundwork RVA's school-based and workforce programs engage and create opportunities for Richmond's youth in green infrastructure development, neighborhood climate resilience and healthier lifestyles.

Bellemeade Community Bike Shop

The Bellemeade Enterprise Center (also known as the Bike Shop) is the newest addition to the Groundwork RVA family, working as the Southside Hub of operations. The bike shop is located in Bellemeade Park where it works in close collaboration with Oak Grove-Bellemeade Elementary School and the Bellemeade Community Center to provide neighborhood children access to bikes, bike safety, and access to bike paths. Before the time of COVID we encouraged local youth to ride their bikes to school to increase attendance. Our walking school bus and bike trains gave the students an incentive to get to school on time, happy and ready to learn.

Green Team

The Green Team is a citywide program that partners with Richmond Public Schools, the James River Park System and other local organizations. Green Team members plan and implement revitalization projects that have an impact at a neighborhood level, and expand access to Richmond's natural and cultural resources. Green Team members learn about the effects of the Urban Heat Island Effect, Flooding, Food Insecurity, and experience the benefits of outdoor recreation. The Green Team helps their neighborhoods create a greener and more resilient future.

Green workforce

The Green Workforce program builds recent high school graduates capacity and develops work experience for Richmond’s at-risk recent graduates, while revitalizing green spaces in neighborhoods. Young adults work as seasonal employees with Groundwork RVA through community greening and landscape improvement. Along the way they learn about sustainable landscaping, project management, and entrepreneurship.