There's something to be said about people who give their time, energy, hard-work, thanks and even fiscal support for the benefit of a greater good. There's also something to be said about the just how community organizations and programs are available to us who are lucky enough to live in Richmond.
I don't know about you, but it seems to me that there's always some event, some benefit, gala, volunteer opportunity, award nominations and ceremonies – quite simply put – hundreds of chances to give back to the city that has given us so much.
Judging from the over-pour of community focus emails we receive every day, Richmond.com has seen the need to let you know, what we know.
This week we introduce our newest column "Community Spotlight." It's the place for Richmond citizens and nonprofit groups to connect and acquire information, making it easier for you to become aware of what's going on around you and what you can do to help out.
Animal Adoption and Rescue Foundation "Paws in the Park"
AARF will celebrate its 15th anniversary with the annual "Paws in the Park" event to be held on June 14 at the Innsbrook picnic area, located on Cox Road in Glen Allen.
"Paws in the Park" is an outdoor blast for people and their pets and will feature a sponsored dog walk, vendors, adoption stand, blessing of the animals, music, food, contests and prizes.
Hosted by Kat Simons and Mike Goldberg, the event draws hundreds of animal lovers each year to the Innsbrook picnic area where there is something for everyone.
The sponsored dog walk is a trek around Innsbrook Lake with prizes awarded for the most sponsorships.
Animal entrants to our contests are awarded certificates for best kisser, funniest ears, biggest beggar and stupidest pet trick, among others.
To register as a sponsor or vendor, contact call 804-262-4065 or visit aarf.org.
Greater Richmond ARC changes program name
The Greater Richmond ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens) has come up with a new name for one of its longstanding, most important programs.
The previously named Civitan Vocational Services will now be known as ARC Industrial Services, a program that provides opportunities for individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities to work in a variety of capacities at either ARC's production facility on Westwood Avenue, or on-site at various businesses throughout the area.
ARC provides employment for almost 200 individuals with disabilities, allowing them to earn their own paycheck and give their caregivers the opportunity to hold a job as well.
Statistics show that providing employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities allows their caregivers to earn $1.5 million over the course of a 45-year work life. In addition, gainful employment for individuals with disabilities saves more than $7,000 a year in government subsidies, according to the Social Security Administration.
For more information, visit richmondarc.org.
Nicole Megaloudis Foundation 5K Run/Walk
This Sunday marks the fourth annual Nicole Megaloudis Foundation "Make It Happen" 5K Run/Walk to be held at noon at Byrd Park.
Nicole was a student athlete at Virginia Commonwealth University who was killed in an auto accident while driving on Interstate 64 on Feb. 9, 2004. Nicole's friends and family created the foundation to honor her memory and provide students with scholarships who plan to continue their collegiate endeavors and yet are in some from of financial need.
Registration is at 11 a.m. with participation donations of $5 for students and $25 for non-students.
For more information, visit remembernicole.org.
Special Olympics Virginia "R" Word Campaign
If you're a fan of Special Olympics, you're no fan of the "R" word. Special Olympics Virginia is asking for your help to change local mindsets and vocabularies by pledging to eliminate the use of "retarded."
Initiatives for the campaign began back in March with the Glory Days "R" Word Photo Contest, which runs through June and will continue through the month of August with events including the Kroger "R" Word Coin Collection Campaign, the Hokies vs. Hoos Online "R" Word Challenge and Special Olympics Virginia Brunch in Celebration of Youth Services Day.
The Hokies vs. Hoos Online "R" Word Challenge began on April 15 as an initiative to increase community awareness and volunteerism. UVA and Virginia Tech alumni, friends and fans are encouraged to donate online on behalf of their favorite team through June 10.
For every $1,000 each team raises, they'll earn one letter toward building the "R" Word RIVAL and along the way, help Special Olympics Virginia eliminate the other hurtful "R" word.