Richmondmom.com is giving back to the Richmond organizations who give so much to others this season.
Please read the nominations of Richmond residents below and vote for your favorite. 1st place: $150, 2nd place: $100, 3rd place: $75.
All receive our undying appreciation for what they do for others in Richmond every day!
Arthritis Foundation, Mid-Atlantic Vote Here
I was diagnosed with Arthritis when I was 8 years old.When I moved to Richmond Virginia 6 years ago, I was happy to learn the Arthritis Foundation had a local office here. I finally met people who knew what I Was going through. They have events, and support groups, Without them I wouldn’t have meet some great people who inspire me to keep going every day. The also help with research for new medications and procedures that I couldn’t live without. They also host fun events like the Jingle Bell Run on 12/4/10. This organization is near and dear to my heart because I have been living with Arthritis most of my life. Please consider supporting them.—Erica Stotler Mid-Atlantic Arthritis Foundation
CHIP of Greater Richmond makes a huge difference in the lives of families in our area by working with mothers of new children on parenting and health issues. They provide support and encouragement where there often isn’t any.Rather than being a hand out, they offer a hand up, helping these families improve their lives and break the cycle of poverty. Thanks to CHIP, hundreds of children will enter school better prepared to learn, while their parents work toward true economic stability. I am constantly impressed by the strong bond CHIP forms with their clients, by the ways CHIP uses resources that already exist to help the families, and most importantly, by the huge successes we see in these families.
CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation (2 nominations) Vote Here
We started this organization to, A) help us deal with the loss of our daughter Charlotte Jennie in January to a brain tumor, and, B) honor her memory and our support network by providing financial assistance to families with children facing similar circumstances; to, in effect, “pay it forward.” By the end of this year, we will have distributed over $12,000 and plan to easily match, if not beat, that amount next year. We appreciate every cent we receive from our supporters and endeavor to use it wisely. On behalf of the Reynolds family, the Board, and the families we serve, Thank you.—submitted by Roger Reynolds
This non-profit organization was founded by the parents of beautiful, four year old Charlotte Reynolds. Charlotte lost her battle with cancer and her parents founded this organization to help other families who have children who are suffering from life threatening illnesses. It provides meals, help with medical bills, and much more to families who have children who are often in the hospital for very exteneded periods of time. As if having a sick child was not overhwhelming enough, CJSTUF tries to at least provide some comfort to these families by bringing them hot meals or helping them in other areas that they should not have to worry about during this devastating time.—submitted by Heather Garnett
This is a great program that is a part of ConnectNetwork that works to strengthen communities by connecting people to ideas, information and each other.—submitted by Eleanor Ross
The parent company for the Central Virginia Foodbank, Central Virginia Meals on Wheels and the Central Virginia Community Kitchen FeedMore has various missions to feed kids, families and the elderly all over Central VA — thousands of folks benefit from FeedMore’s efforts every week!—submitted by Mark Smith
Full Circle Grief Center Vote Here
Full Circle has touched my life after a recent visit to the center. The love and caring that goes into the non-profit organization that helps children and families who have lost loved ones to death is incredibly overwhelming. The center focuses on life and recovery from otherwise unbearable loss. A story from Bentley Mescall says it all. She lost her cousin and very best friend at the age of 7 years old. Bentley was only 6 and after a brief and unexplained illness, her best friend was gone in the blink of an eye. For weeks, Bentley wouldn’t talk and for almost 3 years she suffered her loss inwardly. But thanks to Full Circle Grief Center, she has now learned to better cope with her loss. She has opened up and her shell is being cast away. But most of all, she has written letters and raised almost $2,000 alone for the center in appreciation for their work. Bentley and Full Circle are touching lives every day and helping children and families learn to grieve and move forward.—submitted by Rhonda Day
Gallery5 is a community oriented, socially motivated art gallery and performing art center in Richmond’s Historic Jackson Ward. The gallery opened its doors on April 15, 2005 in an effort to save the life of a National Historic Landmark known as Steamer Company No. 5. Built in 1849, Steamer Company No. 5, is Virginia’s oldest firehouse and Richmond’s oldest police station and jailhouse. This landmark has survived threats of demolition by the City of Richmond for over 3 decades. Without the dedication of volunteers over the past 35 years, an important piece of our city’s history would have been lost. Gallery5 is proud of its contribution to the revitalization of the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood, and to the many artists and arts organizations that call the area home. G5 is paving the way for positive community change through numerous campaigns, free monthly events & workshops and endless collaborations.—submitted by Amanda Robinson
Greater Richmond SCAN (2 nominations) Vote Here
I had a childhood friend that was abused by his parents. It was hidden well, and it took a brave child to come forward and tell adults what was happening. Unfortunately, not all people are willing to step forward and help out a child in need. Education is the best prevention, and I deeply appreciate everything that SCAN does to help promote happy, healthy families.—Thea Brown
I thought deeply for a long time before actually deciding to write this. From the age of about 5 through the age of 7, I was molested by my step-father. I was so traumatized and threatened by my step-father that I was afraid to tell anyone what was happening. My mother didn’t even find out until I was about 10 years of age. When I finally told her, she cried a bit, but that was as far as it went. I was told that she went to the authorities, and was told that “because it had happened so many years before she came to them, that there was nothing they could do.”
I didn’t receive counseling, and we never really talked about it again. I didn’t realize what kind of negative impact the abuse I had endured would have on the rest of my life. I can’t go into any more detail as this post is limited to a certain number of characters 
It is extremely important for child abuse (of any kind) to be prevented. If it is not prevented, it at least needs to be addressed immediately!—submitted by Leila Bailey
Hugs & Kisses program of Theatre IV Vote Here
Jack & Abby Neonatal Foundation Vote Here
The Jack & Abby Neonatal Foundation directly supports local Richmond parents at a time when they are most vulnerable – when their tiny newborn children are placed in the caring hands of our local NICUs. The Jack & Abby Foundation understands the trials these parents face and wants to help them in meaningful ways. The foundation recently procured costly materials for a sheepskin blanket for a NICU baby with a rare skin disorder – a NICU nurse volunteered to knit it for the family. They are working with local NICUs to provide funding for hotel stays of families, and other costly related expenses. As a lucky mom of a healthy child since her birth, the Foundation has directly educated me on resources to aid my friends and family who are in mourning; when Hallmark doesn’t have the words, I now know who does. In short, this Foundation has turned one families grief into hope for their fellow Richmond neighbors and for that reason alone is deserving of your consideration.—submitted by Carrie Monger
Mended Little Hearts of Central Virginia Vote Here
Mended Little Hearts of Central Virginia is an organization that lends support to families of children diagnosed with Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs). CHDs are the number one birth defect in America. There are over 40 types of CHD. 10-20% of babies diagnosed each year do not live to see their first birthday. This year, my baby was diagnosed with two CHDs. MLH of CVA has been there to offer me support and advice. When I began a chapter of The Children’s Heart Foundation, they jumped on board to help. MLH makes goodie bags for families with children in the hospital, holds events to bring awareness for CHD, plans fun outings for members of the CHD community and raises money for research. This organization is truly deserving of this gift. Too often the fight against CHD goes unnoticed. Let’s bless them this holiday season, the way they bless so many families touched by Congenital Heart Defects.—submitted by Lisa McGhan
Pregnancy Resource Center of Metro Richmond Vote Here
I was blessed in so many ways when I stepped into motherhood. My husband has a great job and good health insurance. Our family was very supportive and helpful. Sadly, there are many women who face the prospect of motherhood alone and with limited financial means. The Pregnancy Resource Center helps moms-to-be and new moms in the Richmond area who are especially in need. They really do care about moms and babies. They offer free services such as pregnancy testing, counseling, ultrasounds, and parenting classes. What a great way to pay it forward!—Amy Pascale
The Renew Crew, part of Elder Homes Vote Here
I know how much hard work goes on behind the scenes to make a positive impact on peoples’ lives ! I became involved with Elderhomes through volunteering with the Public Service Committee of the Richmond Chapter of the PRSA. Assisting with their Rockin’ with Renew Crew event, getting to know people in the organization and talking with people they have helped, made me realize the good work and important service they provide. Elderhomes has hardworking, dedicated staff and volunteers and is so deserving of this award. The mission of Elderhomes is to improve the housing and living conditions of elderly, disabled, and low-income persons in Richmond and surrounding areas. The Renew Crew is the volunteer division of the organization. Their work allows at-risk individuals to remain in their homes and live independently, safely and affordably. The Renew Crew team has more than 1,000 volunteers. Each year the Renew Crew completes more than 290 housing projects, but the wait list continues to grow. Currently more than 164 disabled people are on the waiting list for a wheelchair ramp.—submitted by Carol Kyber
I have adopted all my pets from the Richmond SPCA. My pets are my family and I love them dearly. If it wasn’t for the Richmond SPCA, I wouldn’t have the best cats and dog in the world <3—submitted by Cassandra Wilder
Ronald McDonald House of Richmond Vote Here
I have been on the board of the Ronald McDonald House of Richmond for 6 years now. It is a home away from home for parents of sick children being served in area hospitals and out patient facilities. Aside from the house we also offer grants to community organizations that work with children’s health and education as well as over 20 scholarships to area high schoolers. Your donation would allow RMHC of Richmond to continue to serve the youth of Richmond and parents who are going through quite a stressful time. –submitted by Linda Webb
School of Richmond Ballet Vote Here
The School of Richmond Ballet has been a blessing in my son’s life. He has been studying there for several years but over the last two years, he has been there on scholarship. This is due to the fact that I lost my job and our income has diminished! They were extremely understanding and it has been a wonderful opportunity for Andrew. SRB is truly deserving of this donation. Thank you for the opportunity.—submitted by Michelle Schappacher
St. Michael’s Catholic Church Glen Allen, VA Vote Here
St. Michael’s does so much for the community. From caritas (sheltering & feeding the homeless)to helping those who have lost their job or women who are re-entering the work force learn interview skills and re-vamp their resume. They could reach so many more people with your help.—-submitted by Karen Griffin
The Faces of HOPE (Healthy Options for Personal Empowerment) Vote Here
Fighting and Preventing Childhood Obesity. The Faces of HOPE is Virginia’s 1st in-home childhood obesity prevention organization. I came across the organization on a visit to my son’s pediatrician when I was searching for a new job. As an employee, I can truly say that this organization is working to improve the health of all of Richmond’s children by providing families of all means the tools and resources to become healthier families. Additionally, this is a mom run organization and families come first for the employees, volunteers, and participants. HOPE’s pilot program was launched in 2008 and the enrollment has quadrupled in the last year, but there are many more children we would love to serve and donations, like one from Richmondmom.com, would go a long way to making this possible. For more information, visit us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, or check out www.thefacesofhope.org.—submitted by Jenni Thompson
The Richmond Boys Choir The Richmond Boys Choir has touched my life through my son. My son auditioned for and was accepted into the Richmond Boys Choir this past summer (2010). In the short months that has followed he has gained so much self-esteem and self-pride. Last school year I had some problems with his behavior in school. This school year, he has improved his grades and behavior. he knows that if his grades are low or if he is suspended from school, he will be suspended from the Richmond Boys Choir, which is something he does not want to happen.—submitted by Tionya Wilson
ROSMY provides a place for young people to feel safe as glbt kids.—submitted by Bart Lacks
About Kate Hall
