Summer is coming to an end, but the nonprofit event season is only just ramping up. Keep reading to learn more about ways you can support nonprofits in your community, including win-win (fun for a good cause) annual events.
Back to School Drive in Richmond
Title 1 elementary kids need your help with basic school supplies. You can contribute to Hope for Learning’s annual Back to School Drive by dropping off backpacks, pens/pencils, notebooks, markers, glue sticks and the like at Hope for Learning’s office at 1422 Brook Road, Richmond, until Aug. 29.
Richmond teen and nonprofit founder honored
Like so many teens, fourteen-year-old Mila Henry struggled with mental health challenges, challenges that prompted her to found the nonprofit MH Boxes, which provides teenagers with curated self-care toolboxes that promote resilience and open conversations. Mila was recently honored with the 2025 Pete and Thomas Foundation Youth Humanitarian Award (and by the iconic Megan Thee Stallion). NBC 12 News has her inspirational story.
Virginia Beach’s creative hub
Artists Turley and Tessa Hall Duquette recently launched The Creative Wells Arts Foundation in Virginia Beach. Originally called Garage VB, the newly renamed nonprofit now offers five studios and a multi-use classroom to support local artists with affordable space, creative growth and community connection. Rooted in the ViBe Creative District, the foundation also hosts exhibitions. Read more about the creative duo in the Daily Press.
Mark your calendars
Nonprofit Open House, by Culture Encounters & Start1Spark
Culture Encounters and Start1Spark is sponsoring a Nonprofit Open House on Monday, August 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the University of Richmond. It’s a great way to discover impactful nonprofits and find ways to get involved in the Richmond community. For more info, email Amber at amber@start1spark.org.
Carnival for Cora’s Cause
Not quite 3-year-old Cora has been undergoing treatment for pediatric cancer for the past two years, and she is the inspiration for this special event designed to raise awareness about pediatric cancer while helping support other families. Join the Fairy Godmother Project at this year’s Carnival on September 7 from noon to 3 p.m. at Strangeways Brewing in Fredericksburg.
Virginia Down Syndrome Association’s Step UP
Join VDSA for its 4th Annual Step UP for Down Syndrome in the Valley on Saturday, September 13 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hillandale Park in Harrisonburg. The festivities include a fun 1K run, Family Festival, Community Resource Fair, kids’ zone, music, food, a silent auction and more. Learn more here.
Big Brothers Big Sisters big night out
BBBS’s annual gala – A Garden Soiree at Historic Mankin Mansion – has become a must-attend ticket. Help the mentoring organization reach its goal of $133,000 through its live and silent auction, and don’t forget your dancing shoes. September 19 from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets and more info here.
