Education in greater Richmond
Children who participate in high-quality early childhood programs are more likely to graduate high school, retain employment and secure higher wages. However, local early childcare programs are inaccessible and unaffordable, leaving working families stranded. To meet the regional need, more than 13,000 infant and toddler and 3,000 pre-K slots need to be supplementally funded. Data also suggests that 43% of kids are not ready for kindergarten across the region. For many local low-income families, the challenges compound as a child continues into formal education, where many schools are underfunded and under-resourced. These education-related issues disproportionately impact minority populations, reinforcing poverty and inequity.
About Education in our Region
Educational attainment is a key predictor for future success. It leads to higher income, health and quality of life, less reliance on public assistance or criminal justice system involvement, an increase in civic engagement and more. This powerful catalyst for progress extends to future generations and benefits communities at large. Organizations across our region are supporting children, youth and their families through programs and initiatives in early childhood education and school readiness, supportive school environments and positive teacher interactions, and productive behavioral developments, to name a few.
Get Involved and Give Back
Wondering what you can do to help? Below are a few suggestions for ways you can make a difference.
Donate
Help Fund Grants for Education
Join with other members of the community to contribute to The Fund for Educational Success. Your gift is tax deductible and you'll be partnering with others across the region to help create funds to support students across the educational spectrum with what they need to succeed in school, contribute to their communities, and achieve success in their chosen field of endeavor.
Volunteer
Have an impact in Educational Success
It's easy to make an impact. Education initiatives exist all across our region. Nonprofits are working hard everyday to make quality educational success attainable for everyone. Education is the great equalizer. You can help by volunteering your time to a local nonprofit and making your own contribution! See all of the education volunteer opportunities on CFengage.
Stay Informed
Learn More About Education
It’s important to learn more about the causes that you care about. You can read related news and articles, research organizations making a difference, attend an educational event on the topic or discover ways to advocate for solutions.
Thrive Birth To Five
Thrive Birth to Five is a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing early childhood school readiness. TB5 works diligently to build a robust early childhood system in our region, acting as trusted steward of resources for families, providers, and the ecosystem that supports them.
NextUp RVA
NextUp RVA is a nonprofit organization powered by a network of providers and leaders with a common commitment to ensuring all RVA youth have access to quality learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
Voices for Virginia’s Children
Voices for Virginia’s Children champions public policies and legislation that achieve positive and equitable outcomes for young people. Find data, advocacy toolkits, resources and related policy updates on their website.
Connect With An Expert
We’re here to help you make an impact. Let’s connect and explore the possibilities.