Dear Friends in Service,

When the City of Richmond launched its impact volunteering program in February 2013, no one could have imagined that we would partner with more than 1,500 volunteers to address one of our most pressing urban challenges: neighborhood revitalization. I am proud to know that this dedication to community service continues to thrive in our neighborhoods through the countless volunteers that tirelessly commit their time and energy to improve communities across our city.

Neighborhood revitalization has been one of my top priorities throughout my 20 years of public service in Richmond – first as a City Councilmember and now as Mayor. I have particularly enjoyed partnering with community members to plant trees and community gardens, rebuilding local parks in a single day, and visiting local schools to encourage reading and STEM education.

Perhaps my favorite service activity is the annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Along with hundreds of neighbors and local organizations, I have enjoyed supporting the numerous planting projects and beautification efforts along the Richmond Greenway. This former abandoned railway is now a three-mile-long pedestrian and bicycle path that provides healthy regional active transportation networks for Richmond residents.

Working in partnership with community members to transform vacant lots into community gardens, rebuilding parks and playgrounds, and installing public art projects are some of my top priorities. Love Your Block - Richmond and their partnership with Cities of Service helps provide key strategic support and essential resources that help uplift the efforts of community members as they improve their neighborhoods.

I want to thank the City of Richmond staff, community members, organizations, and companies who contributed to the development of this service plan.   Take a look and I am confident that you’ll be inspired to further the work of neighborhood improvement and service projects.

Sincerely,