What if you could drive just 10 minutes from Downtown Richmond and enter a vast 30 acre organic farm and learning center just ready for the picking? That’s exactly what Sean Sheppard has thought about for years, and now his dream is coming true.
Sean and his business partners – Tim Adkins, Clark Lovelady and Erik Lohse – run Backyard Farmers as a local business for the good of the community and they are serious about making it grow. They all have years of experience in sustainable agriculture, carpentry, landscaping and general construction. They’ve even partnered with Fit4Kids as a service provider to educate kids in schools on growing their own food and creating healthy meals through their School Learning Projects. They have also participated in Jamie Oliver’s recent Food Revolution Day with Edible Education to promote healthier eating throughout our community.
The Backyard Farm is an organic production farm that is:
- Growing nutritious natural products for local grocers, restaurants and food banks
- Creating an accessible and engaging learning environment for people of all capabilities
- “Growing” more farmers!
Now this dynamic team is undertaking one of their most ambitious endeavors yet. They just need a little help from Richmond moms and dads for their Kickstarter Campaign to kick things into high gear.
Kickstarter Campaign
What’s the Kickstarter Campaign all about?
According to Backyard Farmers, “It’s about creating a way to educate more people and provide them with the training and information they need to create their own backyard gardens”.
Financial backers (and that can be for as little as $10) can help with:
- Orchard establishment
- Perennial Garden establishment
- ADA compliant pathways for market and demonstration gardens
- ADA compliant production infrastructure
- ADA compliant restroom facilities
Sean explains, “With all of these features in place, we will be able to host educational tours and workshops for the entire region, offering a unique, hands on experience for all participants.”
“…with your contribution our farm can start on the long path towards productive fulfillment; our fruit trees and perennials will take several years to reach maximum productivity and with the success of this campaign, we will be able to plant over 50% of the anticipated plant materials in 1 year instead of several years. This will help bring the farm to profitability much sooner, meaning we will be able to make more jobs for Richmonders and offer more learning opportunities for everyone!” ~ Backyard Farmers – Sean Sheppard, Tim Adkins, Clark Lovelady and Erik Lohse.
How Richmond Families can Help
They have bought the farm and now they need Richmonders to help move this dream to reality. Pumpkins, basil, tomatoes, and many other vegetables are already planted and many are harvested. Lots of infrastructure work has been finalized for well and pump systems and electrical sources. Next on the list is establishing the irrigation pond and feature garden area.
What does this have to do with Richmond moms and dads? Plenty!
You can make a donation to help – and based on the donation amount, you reap rewards too. You can get tools, cutting boards, mortar pestle, or even a year’s supply of seeds!
Thinking bigger? How about a professional assessment of your property to help you get started with your own garden including a supply of tomato cages, trellises and growing structures of all kinds. Even fruit trees and fruit bearing shrubs are an option!
All items given away to donors are handmade in their local woodworking shop right in the heart of Richmond. Regionally harvested lumber is used and money goes back into the community where it stays and promotes a healthier economy.
But more importantly, think about visiting the farm and learning center to teach your kids about sustainable agriculture, healthier living, and healthier nutrition. A real hands-on experience will provide them with valuable learning that stays with them for the rest of their lives – and yours!
Learn More
There’s just too much to explore than we can tell you here – so visit the Kickstarter Campaign website to see the great things happening at Backyard Farmers.
Click here to learn more – and consider a contribution from $10 to $10,000 (they’ll even take more!) to support this community project for a healthier life right here in Richmond!
All photos compliments and with permission of Backyard Farmers.
The last week of September is here and we’ve got a mega-list of events and activities for preschoolers and school age kids. Check them out. And get ready for the Virginia State Fair. Visit our Fall Festival and Fun Events posting for plenty of festivals in addition to this week’s events.
Remember that September is ADHD Awareness Month and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Get outside and have fun!
Ongoing
Romp n’ Roll BabyPalooza – Free classes for toddlers! Class times vary by location, so check out the schedules via the links below and call or fill out the online form to reserve your space in a class today. September 24-30.
State Fair of Virginia at the Meadow Event Park next to Kings Dominion. Animals, agriculture, rides, food, music, fine arts, crafts, competitions, and more. The State Fair is ON September 28 – October 2.
The Hound of the Baskervilles – Now through November 4, 2012. Part of Virginia Rep’s Barksdale Season at Hanover Tavern – Three actors take on more than twenty roles including Holmes, Dr. Watson, and themselves as they hilariously retell the story of the classic thriller with the killer dog! This highly theatrical comedy will have you howling with laughter. A fast-paced spoof for the entire family!
Click here for some ongoing events at the Science Museum of Virginia and more.
Gallery First UU at First Unitarian Universalist Church will host its 47th annual juried fine arts and crafts show and sale. It opens at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 26 and continues through 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 30. Over 180 local and regional artists and craftspeople will exhibit their works. Prices range from twenty dollars to several thousand dollars. There is no admission charge.
Monday, September 24
Free Classes at Romp n’ Roll. Class times vary by location, so check out the schedules via the links below and call or fill out our online form to reserve your space in a class today.
Red Shoe Rendezvous to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Richmond. Have a wonderful evening at the Red Shoe Rendezvous, the largest annual fundraiser for Richmond’s Ronald McDonald House Charities. Event includes a variety of cuisine presented by many well-known local restaurateurs and caterers. Each ticket includes unlimited food and open bar. A silent and live auction will include sports memorabilia, vacation packages, restaurant certificates to some of Richmond’s best locations, and more! All proceeds directly benefit RMHC of Richmond.
Tuesday, September 25
Be the Match and Save Lives – learn more here.
Tuesday September 25th! Staff will be onsite from 10 am to 6 pm giving kids free jump ropes and helping bag groceries. 5% of all sales will go to support Fit4Kids and learning gardens.
Wednesday, September 26
Lunch Break Science noon – 1 p.m. at Science Museum of Virginia. Rabies in Virginia: Epidemiology and Exposure Response presented by Virginia Department of Health Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Julia Murphy.
Girls on the Run of Greater Richmond at 7:oo p.m. – information meeting at Cafe Caturra at Libbie and Grove. 10% of all sales will go to Girls on the Run – just tell them you are with Girls on the Run. If you are interested in learning more about this new nonprofit that teaches girls self-esteem through running and physical fitness please come by and get something to eat and drink. We look forward to seeing you there!
Women’s Health and Fitness Day –It’s Women’s Health and Fitness Day on Wednesday, September 26th from 10am-12pm. Doors open at 9:30am for registration and a continental breakfast. The event is free, but space is limited! Come out for Tai Chi Classes and Demonstrations for all levels of experinces, Henrico Doctors Hospital Health Fair, South River Compounding Pharmacy, Personal Chef To Go, Door Prizes and More! Call 804-741-8624 by September 19th to reserve your place today!
Nobody Told Me – 9:30 am – 11 pm – If you love being a mom (or want to be a mom) but had no idea how hard it would be, join in for honest conversation and realistic ideas for making it easier. Register: 804-545-1272. Commonwealth Parenting.
Mood Management at Scents of Serenity. Come out to Scents of Serenity Organic Spa and learn about managing your moods through these powerful and amazing oils. Free seminar is Wednesday night 7-8:30pm at Scents of Serenity Organic Spa, 3016 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, located upstairs in a historic farmhouse. Seating is limited and classes fill up fast, so call Melanie at (804)277-4988 to reserve your spot!
Thursday, September 27
The Fresh Beat Band centers on four best friends – Kiki, Shout, Marina and Twist – in a band who love to sing and dance. In each episode, preschoolers sing and dance along as they help The Fresh Beat Band solve everyday challenges. Preschoolers learn the fundamentals of music such as melody, rhythm, tempo and performance styles and the importance of friendship, working together, and respecting each others differences.Center Stage/Carpenter Theatre.
Friday, September 28
Threads Fall Consignment: September 28-October 7. Great bargains!
Science Museum of Virginia Girls in Science Camp In – Middle school girls join forces with professional women scientists to confront challenges and find solutions to common problems faced by scientists and engineers. Girls in Science Camp In is sponsored by DuPont and the Society of Women Engineers. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register call 804.864.1400. One adult chaperone is required for every four girls. $10 per person.
Fourth Fridays with Frank at CMoR at 11 am.
Life at the Plantation – Magnolia Grange – Homeschool program that includes a tour, period games, and a craft project Register: 804-748-1623.
Call Federal Credit Union has partnered with Enterprise Car Sales to offer a member-only Used Auto Sales Event with special finance incentives at our Hanover Branch. Get pre-approved! Call our Loan Consultants at (804) 274-1200 or apply online.
Adult Fun Friday at Spirited Art – Get into the Halloween spirit with “Boo!”, the 1st Adult Fun Friday class. It will be painted on a 10×20″ on September 28th at 11:00 am. Bring your own lunch or snack, and enjoy some fun with friends. There will also be a raffle for a free Spirited Art painting at this class.
Family Weekend Concert at Modlin Center for the Arts – Always a popular event, Richmond’s Family Weekend Concert will offer performances by the Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Schola Cantorum, Women’s Chorale, Jazz Ensemble, and more. DATE: Friday, September 28 . TIME: 7:15 p.m. UR Taiko Ensemble – outside, front entry of Booker Hall (weather permitting) 7:30 p.m. Concert – WHERE: University of Richmond – Camp Concert Hall, Booker Hall of Music – COST: FREE; no ticket required.
Family Art Night at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts – 5-7 pm. Enjoy a modern approach to the ancient Chinese art of painting silk using professional dyes and line techniques on silk garments. Register: 804-340-1405.
Jump-n-Jam Tween Night – 8-12 pm – Pump it Up Hanover or Midlothian locations, tweens (age 10 and up) can race through obstacle courses; shoot hoops, or just dance. Includes pizza and a drink. Call to confirm location and time and to register: 804-550-7867.
Saturday, September 29
VisionWalk 5K and Family Fun Event: Join the Virginia Eye Institute and Foundation Fighting Blindness as they walk to fight blindness caused by degenerative retinal diseases. The 5K Family and Pet Friendly Walk is Saturday, September 29, 2012 at Innsbrook – North Shore Commons. It starts at 9:00 a.m.
Worldwide Day of Play at CMoR – 10 am – 4 pm – On Worldwide Day of Play, children are encouraged to turn off their screens and do what they do best: PLAY! CMoR celebrates at all three locations with hula hoops, balls, guest visitors and all of the museum’s usual ways to play. CMoR Central unveils the new Healthy For Life messages and game throughout the exhibits. FREE with admission. At all three CMoR locations!
Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, Richmond Virginia – Have expired prescriptions or documents that need to be destroyed? West Creek Emergency Center is an official National Drug Take-back Day collection site on 9/29 from 10 am – 2 pm. Drive thru. Drop off.
Festival of India – Free admission. Enjoy a taste of Indian Culture in RVA. For Virginians, the Festival of India has become an eagerly anticipated annual event, since it began in 1981. People from all over Virginia flock to the Greater Richmond Convention Center for two fun-filled days of music, dance, food, and culture. The Festival offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and explore India’s diverse culture and traditions, including authentic regional food, arts, crafts, and entertainment.
Festival of Grapes and Hops at 10 am – Gather your friends and bring them to charming Old Towne Petersburg for a day of sipping, swirling and fun. Petersburg’s Chamber Festival of Grapes & Hops. Enjoy Virginia wines and beers the way they were meant to be tasted…with friends, music and great food!
Bark in the Park – Our annual Bark in the Park event is for the entire family. We encourage anyone who enjoys animals, activities, music and even a little exercise to join in the fun,” said Courtney Morano, Henrico Humane Society president. “The proceeds from this event help us find permanent, loving homes for animals that have been abandoned, abused or surrendered.” A 2k Dog walk starts at 10:30 a.m. and there is a $25 registration fee for this event or $10 for children. Walkers can register online at www.henricohumane.org , or in person on the day of the event. Participants are encouraged to collect pledges to help raise money. Prizes will be awarded to the individuals and teams that raise the most funds.
Boathouse Oktoberfest – 11 am – 5 pm – Join us at the Boathouse at Sunday Park for a lakeside Oktoberfest! Traditional German menu including bratwurst, smoked pork loin, spatzle, Schupfnudeln, Kaiserschmarren, and strudel. Beer tasting and featured beers from Franziskaner, Heavy Seas, Krambacher, Legend, Spaten, Starr Hill, Victory and Weyerbacher sold separately. Live music by the Acca Temple Sauerkrauts. Call The Boathouse at Sunday Park to make your reservation (must be secured with a credit card).
Free Entrance Day at James River National Wildlife Refuge – Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included unless stated otherwise.
National Trimathlon at Mathnasium of Midlothian. A fun-filled competition where kids in grades 3 – 6 compete in three challenging math events. Call 877-601-MATH for the nearest location and for registration information.
On A Roll is a wheel-a-thon/run-a-thon to benefit the National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA). The event will take place at the Dinwiddie Generals Football Field. Course options include a timed road course through Historic Dinwiddie County, plus an oval track race, along with an obstacle course for those not wheelchair-bound to see how life is like for those that are.
SPC Fall Fest – 10 am – 3 pm – Come join us on Sept 29th for a day filled with festival foods, live mission work (Stop Hunger Now and Birthing Kits for Haiti), kids’ games, music and more
Walk Now for Autism Speaks is a fun-filled, family friendly event and is our signature fundraising event to fund vital Autism research and to spread Autism awareness. Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disorder in the U.S. – we need more volunteers to join our fight. Whether this is your first walk or the 10th, take the first step and register today. You will not only raise funds, but you will become a part of a fun and supportive family-focused community.
Everything for Kids Sale – Organized by RAMOM – Chickahominy Middle School, 9450 Atlee Station, MEchanicsville, VA. The sale will be from 8am – 11am, rain or shine. Cash Only. No strollers will be admitted into the sales area. Go to www.RAMOM.org to contact us for more information or to get on our yard sale mail/e-mail list.RAMOM – Everything for Kids Sale!
Sunday, September 30
Carytown and the Byrd Theatre, Revisited – 2-4 p.m. From buffalo trail to streetcar suburb, Carytown’s fascinating story is the focus of this tour as you explore this “mile of style”. Includes Cary Court Shopping Center, restored to its 1930’s art deco splendor, and a “behind the scenes” tour of the Byrd Theatre (1928), one of the few active movie palaces in the country. Meet at Premiere Costumes, 3339 W. Cary Street.
Festival of India – Free admission. Enjoy a taste of Indian Culture in RVA. For Virginians, the Festival of India has become an eagerly anticipated annual event, since it began in 1981. People from all over Virginia flock to the Greater Richmond Convention Center for two fun-filled days of music, dance, food, and culture. The Festival offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and explore India’s diverse culture and traditions, including authentic regional food, arts, crafts, and entertainment.
2012 Short Pump Mile and Express Run – Over 1,000 runners are getting ready for September 30 at the 2012 C&F Bank/Lite98 Short Pump Mile and Express Fun Run Event.
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