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Richmond, VA — As Richmond continues its work to advance the goals of RVAgreen 2050, the city's climate equity action plan, expanding pathways for youth leadership in climate action has become a growing priority for residents and city leaders alike.
To support this work, the City of Richmond has been selected as one of 300 local governments worldwide to receive a $50,000 grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies' Youth Climate Action Fund, administered by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Center for Government Excellence. The funding will support an open innovation competition inviting young Richmonders ages 15 to 24 to design, develop, and implement projects that advance the city's climate goals. Selected projects will receive microgrants between $1,000 and $5,000.
“Richmond’s young people are some of our most creative problem‑solvers, and this investment empowers them to shape the future of their own neighborhoods. The Youth Climate Action Fund will help us cultivate new ideas, elevate youth leadership, and accelerate progress toward a more resilient and equitable Richmond,” said Mayor Danny Avula. "Bringing together the power of young people and real solutions around some of our most pressing challenges is absolutely a win in my book. I'm so thrilled to be part of this effort."
Led by the Office of Sustainability, the Youth Climate Action Fund will be administered in partnership with the Office of the Mayor, the Office of Community Wealth Building, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, and the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. An independent review committee will evaluate proposals and select microgrant recipients, ensuring that funding decisions reflect the priorities of the community.
The Youth Climate Action Fund directly advances two pillars of the City's strategic plan, Thriving and Inclusive Communities and a Thriving and Sustainable Built Environment, while reinforcing Richmond's broader commitments to youth engagement and climate equity. Projects funded through the program will reflect the priorities young people identify for their own neighborhoods, from energy and food access to green space, transportation, and community resilience. Details on eligibility, timelines, and how to apply will be shared through the City's communications channels and at community events in the weeks ahead.
For more information about the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund, visit bloombergcities.jhu.edu/program/youth-climate-action-fund.
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