The year 2020 has required us all to adapt and pivot to the challenges we’re facing as a community. One of the easiest ways to stay socially connected while keeping safe physical distance is by transforming common outdoor spaces into safe community places with seating, plants and natural habitats. 

As we head into 2021, the Richmond ToolBank is helping to activate more outdoor spaces in the age of physical distancing by building picnic tables, benches, garden beds, compost bins, free libraries/pantries, and bird nesting boxes!  These features will be donated to local parks, public schools, nonprofits, and other organizations supporting Richmond youth and families.

We’ve partnered with dozens of local nonprofits & community groups — like YMCA, Enrichmond Foundation, YWCA, Richmond Parks & Rec—  that need more outdoor seating and gathering infrastructure to safely continue offering their programs during COVID-10 and beyond. Your support can make the difference for so many in our community.

HOW IT WORKS:

Video of How It Works

Building Change is 50% remote volunteering, 50% charitable donation, and 100% fun. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose your build project: Select from the menu of 7 project options. All items will be donated to ToolBank partner organizations or a recipient of your choice. 
   
2. Pick up your project kit: Head to the ToolBank at your scheduled time to pick up everything you need to successfully complete your build project — including tools, materials & instructions— using the link in your confirmation email.
3. Build items using instructions: Use ToolBank's written & video recorded instructions to complete the project(s) at home in your own time.
   
4. Return built items to ToolBank & we will donates items: If you have the means to return the completed items to the ToolBank, that's great. If not, the ToolBank will come to pick up the completed items & tools as scheduled. They will then be donated to community groups in need. If you want your project items to go to an organization of your choosing we'll work with you to get them there!
   
5. Share on Social Media: Share photos of your hard work & good times on your favorite social media platform. Tag us @rvatoolbank and use  #BuildingChange, #BlueTools, #RVA.

Building Change is perfect for a corporate team building experience, a service project of a faith-based group, or a weekend projects with family & friends. This unique volunteering experience activates your mind & body while making a direct positive impact on thousands of your neighbors.

It’s really that simple and that fun! Go ahead, check out the project options and start choosing yours now!