Growing the Next Generation of Urban conservationists in Richmond, VA
GROUNDWORK RVA
Groundwork RVA programs work with youth to occupy a hands-on role in creating positive changes to enhance green spaces in Richmond communities.
In our afterschool and summer programs, we encourage youth to be leaders in creating more equitable and climate-resilient communities. Through hands-on projects, teens use their voices to drive change—expanding access to local and National Parks, transforming school campuses, and reclaiming blighted or contaminated sites as neighborhood assets. By tackling these challenges, young people develop the skills, confidence, and vision to shape a more sustainable and just future for all.
PROGRAMS
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 Community Bike Shop, located in Bellemeade Park, works in close collaboration with Oak Grove-Bellemeade Elementary School and Community Center to provide neighborhood children and families access to bikes, bike education, and access to bike paths.
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 is a post-high school workforce development program, centered on young people moving into adulthood. This program employs both full-time and seasonal participants, supporting them to develop and utilize a wide variety of skills in urban greening, carpentry, green infrastructure, stormwater management, and landscape design and installation. Across wide variety of projects and partnerships, the Green Workforce is an implementation partner that allow us to create and leave behind assets that enhance Richmond’s impacted communities.
HILLSIDE MINI FARM
Hillside Mini Farm, originally envisioned by former Green Team youth and resident of Hillside Court in 2021, is a thriving community space and a source of fresh, healthy produce in the middle of a food desert. Over the years, the farm has produced significant harvests and engaged local residents in its growth. This project has expanded to include infrastructure improvements and dynamic programming, fostering community resilience and pride. The farm continues to be a vital refuge and resource for the neighborhood.
GROUNDWORK RVA IN ACTION
For years, Groundwork RVA youth have been busy at work in the community changing places and changing lives.
Follow us @groundworkrva for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into our work in Richmond.
