vol. 280 / Moments of JoyExploring and celebrating the place we all love to call home.
VOL. 280 / Moments of Joy
This week’s guest editor, Paige Wilson, is inspired by Joy. And it's her mission to encourage all of Richmond to become “Nabors.”
Based in the River City, Paige is the Founder and CEO of fast-growing Naborforce, a purpose-driven company that has sparked hundreds of thousands of joyful moments since its launch in 2018. Naborforce connects older adults to a trusted network of “Nabors,” thoroughly vetted and compassionate individuals who are available to lend a helping hand and provide peace of mind for families. This expanding network of Nabors promotes independent, joy-filled aging across Greater Richmond and beyond.
Paige was moved to create Naborforce after caring for her own mother, Joy, while navigating a demanding career in senior leadership roles in the investment banking industry. After her mother passed away, Paige set out to build a company that blended her professional expertise with her personal passion. She did so with the same warmth, optimism, and humor her mother embodied.
Built from love, Naborforce continues to attract a talented and deeply caring group of Nabors, all united by one mission: to support older adults and bring light into their daily lives.
This week, we are thrilled to welcome Paige as guest editor. She is sharing three tips for creating joyful moments for yourself, for others, and for the city we all love to call home.
Take it away, Paige …
Befriend Movement
Befriend believes in the limitless power of human connection to build a more compassionate and joyful world, and it all begins in our own communities. As an answer to the loneliness epidemic, Befriend creates opportunities for people to connect across generations and differences — especially with seniors who are often overlooked. At Befriend, everyone belongs. The organization hosts experiences that foster curiosity, understanding, and friendships that strengthen both individuals and communities. The ripple effects are lasting.
"When people show up with open hearts and curious minds, something magical happens – real connections form and lasting change begins," says Mollie Reinhart, the founder of Befriend.
Check out one of the nonprofit’s upcoming events, like the Befriend Sunset Walk happening on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. at the University of Richmond Eco-Corridor and Lake. Participants will meet at 6201 River Road, behind Starbucks. And don’t miss the Befriend Sunset Clean-up scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 28, from 7 to 8 p.m. at Jefferson Park, 1921 Princess Anne Ave.
One song at a time, Joyful Voices works to stimulate the mind, energize the body, and elevate the spirit. This community chorus was created for singers with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their caregivers. Rehearsals take place every Thursday morning from 10:00–11:30 a.m. at Salisbury Presbyterian Church. The ensemble offers a meaningful and joyful musical experience, performing two public concerts each year. Volunteers are always welcome to sing along, bring refreshments for social time and concerts, help with weekly setup and cleanup, or assist in preparing printed music for the chorus. Music is powerful, and there’s no better way to experience that power than with Joyful Voices.
Vitals:
Joyful Voices / The next Summer Sing Along is August 14, from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. / 13621 Salisbury Road, Midlothian / Volunteer here
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is more than just a meal, it's a chance to bring joy into someone's home. This vital program helps seniors and homebound neighbors in Richmond stay independent, safe, and happy at home. Each weekday, fresh, diet-specific meals are prepared with care in the Bayard Community Kitchen and delivered by friendly volunteers between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Flexible delivery options ensure every neighbor is supported in a way that fits their needs.
Meals on Wheels offers more than nourishment. Every visit includes a smile and a safety check, providing connection, reassurance, and peace of mind. Feed More prepares and delivers meals to nearly 1,000 individuals across 14 Central Virginia localities and is a proud member of Meals on Wheels America.
It only takes 60 seconds to find out if this program is right for you or a loved one. If you are in a position to lend a hand, there are many ways to get involved. Be part of Central Virginia’s hunger-fighting community and make a difference through one meal, one visit, and one neighbor at a time.
Naborforce offers flexible, neighborly support for older adults — whether it's help around the house, running errands, or simply providing companionship. Friendly, vetted Nabors are available to lend a hand, offering a reliable backup solution for busy families and bringing peace of mind to loved ones. Whether you need occasional help or consistent support, this Richmond-based business makes it easy to connect with someone right in our community. Nabors are often empty nesters, retirees, or others who enjoy spending time with seniors and want to give back while earning flexible income. If you need a Nabor or are interested in creating moments of joy by becoming a Nabor, reach out to learn more.
vol. 279 / Earth FolkExploring and celebrating the place we all love to call home.
VOL. 279 / Earth Folk
Meet this week's guest editors, Laney Sullivan and Jameson Price of Høly River. This musical duo is known for their ethereal pop soundscapes, transcendent melodies, and environmental activism. Rooted in themes of nature, spirituality, and human connection, their music weaves together elements of folk, world, and ambient genres. Their performances create an immersive experience that goes beyond a traditional concert, offering audiences moments of reflection, introspection, and inspiration.
In addition to their music, Laney and Jameson are passionate advocates for environmental stewardship and community building. They are the founders of Fonticello Food Forest, a thriving community garden and resource hub in Southside Richmond. The food forest is dedicated to nature connection, education, and expanding access to fresh food through a weekly free farmstand.
They also co-founded the Earth Folk Collective, an organization focused on fostering creativity, connection, and ecological awareness through music, art, and co-housing. Earth Folk hosts a monthly old-time music jam and other gatherings that bring people together around shared values.
These are just a few of the many ways the two demonstrate their deep commitment to living in harmony with the earth and inspiring others to do the same.
Take it away, Laney and Jameson ...
804 Day
Richmond’s epic free block party is happening Saturday, August 2, in Shockoe Bottom beside the beautiful Main Street Station. 804 Day is a citywide celebration featuring local artists from a wide range of genres, showcasing the rich creativity of our community.
Catch our set on the WNRN Stage at 1:30 p.m. Expect a full day of live music across multiple stages, plus food, drinks, art, local makers, and the kind of community energy that makes the 804 thrive. This event is presented by Shockoe Records and the City of Richmond, and made possible by a host of volunteers and sponsors.
Vitals:
804 Day / Saturday, August 2 / 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. / Free / 17th Street Market, 100 North 17th Street
Warriors in Bloom
Also on Saturday, August 2, don’t miss Warriors in Bloom at Agecroft Hall and Gardens. This unconventional, Ren Faire–inspired experience features live music, theater, demonstrations, and vendors, all set against the backdrop of a dreamy historic venue overlooking the James River.
Virago Alley, the nonprofit behind the Richmond Renfaire, is hosting Warriors in Bloom to celebrate bold figures who dared to defy convention and changed history in the process. The immersive event will spotlight legendary figures such as Joan of Arc, Tomyris, Rani Durgavati, and Grace O'Malley through performances, lectures, storytelling, crafting activities, and an open-air artisan market.
Enjoy local vendors, historically inspired fare, and a variety of family-friendly activities in a setting that beautifully blends past and present.
Don’t miss this community wellness party hosted by Taou Studios at Celeste Farm. Monday evenings this summer, Celeste Farm opens its gates to the public for yoga, sauna, cold plunge sessions, farm-to-table picnics, and refreshing mocktails.
Haven’t been out to Celeste Farm in Varina yet? It’s just five minutes from downtown, and it’s an incredible vision brought to life by Goatocado owner Ian Newell. This flower-filled outdoor venue features a field spa where you can truly start your week off on the right foot.
Vitals:
Gather at Celeste Farm / Monday, Aug 4 / 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. / Tickets: $20 per individual, $40 per carpool group ($5 off for members) / Celeste Farm, 7001 Osborne Turnpike
More about Laney and Jameson.
Laney and Jameson of Høly River recently added “children’s book author” to the long list of reasons Richmond cheers them on. Their new children’s book, The Loon, is a lyrical lullaby adapted from one of the band’s own songs and brought to life through intricate papercut illustrations by Baltimore-based artist and activist Valeska Populoh. Thoughtfully made, the 5”x5” book is printed with soy-based inks on 100% recycled paper at a climate-neutral facility. You can order the first edition through Shockoe Records. Each copy comes signed and includes a digital version of The Loon lullaby. A beautiful gift. A beautiful message. A beautiful hometown story.
vol. 278 / ALEXANDER MACKExploring and celebrating the place we all love to call home.
VOL. 278 / ALEXANDER MACK
Meet this week's guest editor, Alexander Mack. A Richmond-based singer, songwriter, and producer, Alexander is known for seamlessly fusing the vintage art of jazz, the energy of funk, and the versatility of hip-hop to create a smooth, groove-filled aesthetic.
A talented crooner as well as an emcee, Alexander channels his old soul through the head-nodding music he produces. With a rapidly growing international fanbase, he has a unique ability to capture new sounds with an old-school flair — earning him organic success around the world. Working across both music and fashion, Alexander has collaborated with brands such as Nike, Sperry, Rowing Blazers, and most recently TAFT Shoes.
Many people are unaware that Alexander has synesthesia, a perceptual condition in which he sees sounds as colors and shapes. It deeply influences the way he experiences the world, especially when creating or even listening to music. To Alexander, each instrument has its own color and shape. Another surprise to many — he is naturally a stutterer. Around age ten, Alexander realized that when he sang or rapped along with his favorite songs, he didn’t stutter. This taught him to speak with rhythm in conversation to help his mind maintain a certain pace, often using his hands while talking. By age nine, Alexander also discovered he could play music by ear and began learning his favorite songs. That skill became invaluable as a producer and songwriter, enabling him to create exactly what he hears in his head.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 9, when Alexander Mack takes the stage at the Richmond Jazz Festival alongside a phenomenal lineup of legends and rising stars — many of whom he grew up listening to. Until then, we’re honored to have him as this week’s guest editor to share his top recommendations for exploring and celebrating the place we all love to call home.
Take it away, Alexander …
SwapMeet RVA
SwapMeet RVA is one of my favorite events in the city — and a great way to surround yourself with Richmond’s creative community. The event features tons of curated thrift vendors, some of the city’s best DJs, and an unbeatable vibe. But SwapMeet is more than just a market. It’s a community hub where local entrepreneurs, artists, and vintage enthusiasts come together to celebrate creativity, diversity, and sustainability. Founded and organized by passionate locals, SwapMeet was created to provide a platform for small businesses, artisans, and food vendors to showcase their unique offerings in the heart of Richmond.
Latin music is one of my biggest inspirations, and Latin culture has played a meaningful role in my life. Havana ’59, a staple of Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom District since 1994, hosts a weekly Latin dance social every Thursday evening. Dancers aged 21+ are invited to enjoy a lively mix of salsa rhythms spun by a live DJ. The venue features an indoor dance floor and a popular rooftop bar. The event kicks off promptly at 8:00 p.m. and typically runs late into the evening.
My good friend Marcus “Tennishu” Tenney of the illustrious Butcher Brown will be playing with the Billy Williams Trio at the 1920s-inspired Goldwing cocktail bar. Goldwing is already one of my favorite spots in the city, but having one of the best sax and trumpet players to come out of Richmond, join a great band is the icing on the cake. Don’t miss their show on July 25 at this classic cocktail lounge in Scott’s Addition.
Vitals:
Friday, July 25 / 8 p.m. / Goldwing, 910 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
More about Alexander Mack and Richmond Jazz Festival.
The Richmond Jazz and Music Festival returns August 8–10, bringing three days of incredible live music, amazing food, and nonstop vibes. Alexander Mack's set is at 2 p.m., where he’ll be performing with a live band and one of his favorite DJs in the city, Infinite Peace. This year’s lineup also features T.I., Jodeci, Muni Long, Masego, CeeLo Green, Aloe Blacc, Charles Owens, and many more. Come experience the best of RVA — the best music, the best food, the best vibes — all at one of the East Coast’s premier music festivals.
Go
