RVA Light
At RVA Light in Richmond, Virginia, workers and volunteers practice a “touch to teach” model as they strive to end ‘relational poverty’ by giving neighbors who are disconnected, homeless, and destabilized a place where they can belong. Their mission is to connect local neighbors with one another, with community resources, and with Jesus. Community plays a pivotal role in people's lives and contributes to overall health and well-being. However, when we look around us we see so many people who lack the loving support of a healthy community. Many neighbors are struggling with mental and physical illness, addiction, homelessness, unemployment, and food insecurity. There are many social service organizations in Richmond that offer aid to help those dealing with these issues, but finding and accessing these organizations can be difficult and frustrating. When possible, RVA Light works to connect these neighbors in need with organizations that can help them find a way out of hardship, as they come alongside them, offering ongoing social and spiritual support.
RVA Light is a leveling ground where people can be met “where they’re at,” by offering a welcoming environment with access to much-needed resources like phones and computers. They also host a variety of groups and classes designed to empower neighbors to meet their own personal goals and to find stability and hope in their lives. Classes offered include: Daily Bible Study, Faith and Finances, Jobs for Life, Job Search workshops. Special Activities occurring monthly include therapeutic arts & crafts and cooking. RVA Light is Christ-centered, Bible-based, and active in love.
The majority of employees and volunteers are Christadelphians, and one neighbor is now a baptized member of the local Richmond Chapel ecclesia. More information can be found at www.rvalight.org.