Spring is nearly here, and with it, our first 2026 edition of Phil-Ins! We’ve curated a packed round-up of Virginia nonprofit news, must-attend events and volunteer opportunities. Thanks to these local leaders and organizations, our community is in full bloom.
Local nonprofit leaders honored as ‘Women Who Drive Richmond’
The Richmond Times-Dispatch and Richmond Raceway celebrated its fourth annual Women Who Drive Richmond awards on March 6, and the nonprofit sector was well represented. Each year, the program honors local women who demonstrate exemplary leadership, professional achievement and a steadfast commitment to improving the community. Congratulations to:
- Sherrie Armstrong – CEO, Community Foundation for a greater Richmond
- Kristen Cavallo – executive director, The Branch Museum of Design
- Jeannine Panzera – executive director, Henrico CASA
- Angela Patton – CEO, Girls For A Change
- Sarah Scarbrough – founder, REAL LIFE
- Shelesha Taylor – senior disability rights advocate, disAbility Law Center of Virginia
Innovation in motion: Moving Art Three
Experience the thrill of rapid-fire creativity as Richmond Ballet presents Moving Art Three: New Works at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. This festival challenges four choreographers — Natasha Adorlee, David Morse, Price Suddarth and Serkan Usta — to conceive and polish original 10-minute ballets in just 25 hours. Making its VMFA debut, the showcase offers a rare, intimate look at the evolution of dance from a blank floor to a dynamic performance. Catch a show on select dates between March 19 and March 29. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased here.
Generosity takes flight at SAVOR 2026
Experience an evening of culinary excellence at SAVOR 2026, the premier gala supporting The Doorways, a hospitality house for patients and families traveling to Richmond for life-saving medical care. In its 17th year, the event will take place at the HeloAir hangar at the Richmond International Airport on Saturday, March 28. Guests will enjoy a gourmet dining experience featuring acclaimed chefs, along with live music and exclusive silent and live auctions. Proceeds directly fund critical lodging and support services. Learn more and secure your spot here.
Design for recovery
Journey House Foundation is accepting original artwork submissions to design the official t-shirt for its annual Larry Roberts Golf for Recovery Tournament on Friday, June 5. The contest seeks a one-color design that reflects themes of hope and resilience, matching the tournament’s goal of raising awareness and funds for accessible substance use disorder recovery services in the Richmond region. The winner receives a prize package valued at $500. Submit your design by April 15.
Second annual Pretty in Pink Breast Cancer Walk
Show your support and get moving at the Second Annual Pretty in Pink Breast Cancer Walk on Saturday, April 11, at Sandy Bottom Nature Park in Hampton. Hosted by Pretty in Pink Women’s Empowerment Organization, Inc., the event raises funds to support its mission to educate and uplift women through essential self-care and prevention initiatives. Beyond the walk, you can shop local vendors and access breast cancer resources from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration costs $35, which includes a t-shirt and a swag bag. Registerhere.
Initiatives for environmental impact
Put your recycling habits to the test during the Tab Top Recycling Competition from April 6-10 at the Ronald McDonald House in Roanoke. This unique event turns aluminum tabs into community support, with prizes awarded to top collectors across categories like schools, businesses and local groups. Watch your contributions hit the scale and fill up a commercial dumpster, showcasing the enormous “weight” of collective giving. Learn more here.
Or, looking to get your hands dirty? Join the University of Richmond Office for Sustainability at one of its regular events to help protect the Richmond area’s flora and fauna, starting with a Westhampton Lake Cleanup on March 20 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Volunteers will work to remove trash and hazardous fishing lines around the lake, with all the necessary gear included — gloves, grabbers and snacks to keep you fueled. Registration is required for all events. Find a date that works for you here.
