What is Founders Day?

Each spring, VHBG honors the Richmonders who in 1846 were not willing to stand idly by while children lived in terrible conditions on the street, without homes or families. At a community meeting at a church on 5th Street on the evening of March 30, they took decisive action and founded a brand new organization--ours--that would care for these young neighbors in need by providing a home, food, clothing, and the love and structure needed for them to grow into self-reliant adults.

180 years later, we are not the same organization. We are better – because of you. With a determination to always do right by kids, we provide a safe, stable, temporary home for young people to find their footing after a period of homelessness or family crisis, and have been constantly evolving since 1846. Today, we help young people transition back to a permanent home as soon as possible, ideally to live with kin, an adopted family, or to move into their own apartment. Remaining nimble enough to respond to the changing needs of our community is VHBG’s superpower, and it’s thanks to your support.

Since 1846 we have been advocates for young people, believing we all have a role to play in bringing along the next generation. Ours is work that cannot be done in a vacuum. VHBG’s founders relied on community support when they first opened our doors, and we continue to leverage our partnerships across the Commonwealth to effect real, lasting change in Virginia’s child welfare spaces. VHBG’s reputation for excellence means our leadership staff are consistently invited to the table to make sure Virginia enacts policies that do right by our kids and strengthen our families.

On Founders Day, we celebrate a legacy that has been there for thousands of young people when they needed help the most, for 180 years. Together, we have made our community stronger. And there is always more to be done. Here is your opportunity to take action -- join us!

Founders Day 2026

By Virginia Home for Boys and Girls

Founders Day 2026

Celebrate Founders Day on March 30

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