Vision

The southside center for rest & healing

Virginia Community Voice (VACV) is spearheading the transformation of an unused school property at 2001 Ruffin Road into the Southside Center for Rest & Healing, a dynamic community hub on Richmond’s Southside.

The Center (aka “healing hub”) is more than just a building; it is a community-driven response to the pressing needs of the Southside residents to heal from historical trauma, environmental harms, and the stressors of modern life. 

Why this matters

This project is envisioned as a groundbreaking approach to holistic community healing, designed in response to the direct feedback from over 300 local residents who expressed a deep need for a space that supports both physical and mental health in a safe, inclusive environment.

Key features of the center will include walking paths, community gardens, an orchard, and a food co-op, alongside affordable co-housing options, making it a comprehensive facility for health and wellness. The project's planning has been guided by extensive community input, ensuring that the services offered are culturally relevant and accessible.

The Southside Center for Well-Being is envisioned as a holistic sanctuary designed to promote health, well-being, and community cohesion. This initiative will not only transform a once underused property into a vibrant communal space but also serve as a beacon of innovation in community-led health and wellness efforts.

Join us on June 6th, 2024 for a community conversation about the healing hub!