RCRG Blog

Richmond's Own Magic School Bus

It's white and orange and operated by the Richmond Pentecostal Church Child Care Society. This school bus, though, also has a special connection to the Christmas Fund.

An Irreplaceable Profession

On International Volunteer Managers Day, Jocelyn Wong, RCRG's Executive Director, reflects on the value and worth of the dedicated professionals who lead volunteers.

A New Way to Access the Richmond Christmas Fund

This year, the Christmas Fund is offering registration by appointment. An online booking system is now available for residents who need a helping hand this holiday season.

Learning to Listen: My Co-op Experience Supporting Seniors

As Michelle Wang concludes her summer co-op term at RCRG, she looks back on it as a "season of growth," where she learned to embrace the unpredictability of community work.

RCRG Office Re-Opens After Flood

While not yet at full capacity, the RCRG office has re-opened following a major flooding incident. In-person services are once again available Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm.

Emergency Office Closure

The RCRG office is temporarily closed due to a flooding incident at the Richmond Caring Place. We hope to open again soon and will share more information once it's available.

Meet Our Newest Senior Peer Counsellors!

Recently, after completing a 44-hour training course, 11 new volunteers became Senior Peer Counsellors, a role in which they'll provide emotional support to fellow older adults.

Read Our 2024-25 Annual Report

RCRG spent the past year Making Waves in Our Community. Our 2024-25 Annual Report takes a deep dive into our latest accomplishments and their reverberating impact.

Celebrating Waves of Community Impact

On June 18, at our 53rd Annual General Meeting, we looked back on another successful year, with RCRG once again creating waves of positive change throughout the community.

Grow Your Volunteer Program with Tailor-Made Training

At RCRG, we offer custom volunteer management training for local community organizations like Urban Bounty, helping them build volunteer programs that meet their specific needs.

Fostering Family Connections

Together Talks, a free playgroup hosted by our Child Care Resource & Referral Centre, is nearing the end of its spring season. If you hurry, though, there's still time to participate!

Finding Strength in Caregiving

As we continue celebrating Family Caregivers Month, we're pleased to share a blog post from Sara Mak on what she's learned and how she's grown while caring for her mother.

Celebrating Family Caregivers

In BC, May is Family Caregivers Month, an opportunity to recognize the tireless and remarkable efforts of those who provide unpaid care to a family member, friend, or neighbour.

Lessons in Empathy

In January, Gordon Low, a co-op student, joined our Seniors Community Support Services team. As his term comes to an end, he reflects on a "profoundly impactful experience."

Senior Peer Counselling Program Thrives with Funding Boost

A new $10,000 donation from Gilmore and Courtyard Gardens will help broaden the impact of our Senior Peer Counselling program, which provides emotional support to older adults.

Shopping and Socializing with Richmond Seniors

In addition to providing seniors with groceries, our Shopping program creates opportunities for social interaction, where clients can connect over group meals and other activities.

Custom Volunteer Management Training

Does your organization need help building or fine-tuning a volunteer program? If so, consider booking a custom volunteer management training session with RCRG!

Apply for a Richmond Community Foundation Scholarship

As you take the next steps on your educational journey, a Richmond Community Foundation scholarship can open doors along the way. Applications are due March 14!

Work with RCRG This Summer!

We're accepting summer job applications from youth between the ages of 15 and 30! Two openings are available, both offering a unique experience in community-based work.

RCRG Prepares for Leadership Transition

Jocelyn Wong, our longtime General Manager, is set to become RCRG's new Executive Director. She'll succeed Ed Gavsie, who is officially retiring at the end of March.

A Window Into Richmond's Generosity

In 2024, the Richmond Auto Mall's Windows of Hope campaign marked its 21st year by raising $37,000 for the Christmas Fund, adding to a total that now exceeds $475,000.

Christmas Fund Beneficiary Experiences Full-Circle Moment

In her former role as a settlement worker, Jane Malificiar would often help clients access the Christmas Fund. This past holiday season, however, she was the one in need of support.

Richmond Christmas Fund Returns to Its Roots

Even operating on a smaller scale, the 2024 Christmas Fund had a profound community impact, brightening the holidays for over 1,300 of our neighbours in need.

Happy Holidays from RCRG!

As we close out another fantastic year, our hearts are filled with gratitude. After a short holiday break, we'll be back January 6, recharged and ready to serve our community.

Helping High School Students Start Their Volunteer Journey

We recently participated in Steveston-London Secondary School's Career & Volunteer Fair, where we highlighted the many ways that students can get involved in their community.

New Scholarship Honours the Life and Legacy of Hans Havas

Hans Havas, who passed away earlier this year, had a profound and lasting impact on the Richmond community. Now, he's being remembered through a new scholarship fund.

10th Annual Richmond RCMP Toy Drive Creates Holiday Magic

Held November 23, at Lansdowne Centre, this year's hockey-themed event was a resounding success, and served as an inspiring showcase for Richmond's giving spirit.

Richmond Christmas Fund Ready for Festive, Fun-Filled Week

From the Richmond RCMP Toy Drive to the Christmas Fund's Online Auction, the week of November 18 offers many ways to help brighten the holidays for your neighbours in need.

Get Your Copy of the 2024-25 Richmond Seniors Directory

We're excited to unveil the latest edition of this free resource for older adults, now available at local community centres, libraries, medical clinics, and the RCRG office!

Fall Funding Cycle Opens for Neighbourhood Small Grants

You could receive up to $500 to organize an educational workshop, art exhibition, cultural celebration, or another project that helps strengthen community connections.

Riding the Rollercoaster: A Summer at RCRG

Workshops, field trips, and many, many grocery orders: Viann Fung reflects on her summer co-op term with our Seniors Community Support Services.

Remembering Hans Havas

At the beginning of July, Richmond lost one of its most well-known and well-loved volunteers. Hans Havas held many roles, but at RCRG, we'll remember him best as Santa.

A Blank Canvas for Your Art

We're on the lookout for a volunteer artist who can add a little colour and creativity to our office. If you have a passion for painting, we have the perfect place to display your work!

Summer Fun at South Arm

On June 20, for the first time, RCRG participated in the South Arm Neighbourhood Block Party. It was an awesome way to connect with our community and kick off the summer season!

Food, Drinks, and Fundraising

Kudos to the caring companies and kind-hearted folks behind McHappy Day and Steveston Wine Fest, two recent food-related fundraisers that supported RCRG.

Meet Our 2024 Summer Co-Op Students!

We're excited to welcome Louise Cham and Viann Fung to the RCRG team! In the months ahead, we look forward to providing them with a memorable summer work experience!

For Seniors, Pamela Lui Has All the Time in the World

Pamela Lui both works and volunteers at RCRG. The hours, though, blend together, because they're all spent creating a more caring community for older adults.

We're Hiring a Seniors Community Connector!

In this new, full-time position, you'll collaborate with healthcare professionals and service providers, helping to link older adults to community-based programs and supports.

Celebrating National Volunteer Week

For National Volunteer Week, happening April 14 - 20, we've created a public art project to map the inspiring volunteer moments that take place daily throughout Richmond.

It's a New Year of Neighbourhood Small Grants

Share your skills, highlight your hobbies, convey your culture: with a Neighbourhood Small Grant, you can build community in a personal way! Apply online by April 18.

One Last Christmas Fund Celebration

On February 29, at O'Hare's GastroPub, we held our annual Richmond Christmas Fund donor appreciation event, bringing to a close the program's record-breaking 91st season.

Rearranging the Stars

This year, the Volunteers Are Stars Awards are taking a break, as we look at ways of making the event more inclusive, and more representative of Richmond's expansive volunteer spirit.

It's Scholarship Season!

Taking the next step on your educational journey? Get a financial boost with a Richmond Community Foundation scholarship! Applications are open until March 15.

Spend Your Summer With RCRG!

We're hiring two Program Assistants! Ideal for students, these temporary, full-time positions start May 6 and offer a unique opportunity to learn and grow in a non-profit setting.

Growing Up and Giving Back

Ava Koldenhof made her first donation to the Christmas Fund when she was in Grade 4. Nine years later, with graduation on the horizon, she's as committed as ever to giving back.

Three Cheers for Our Volunteers!

Over 80 volunteers supported this year's Richmond Christmas Fund program. Their contributions were a gift to us, and to the nearly 4,000 community members we helped.

Bid in the Richmond Christmas Fund's Online Auction

Move over, Amazon, because this year's can't-miss holiday shopping experience comes courtesy of the Christmas Fund's online auction! Bidding is open until December 7!

Richmond RCMP Toy Drive Returns November 18

One of the Richmond Christmas Fund's most popular events is back for a ninth year! Join the RCMP and Santa for a day of festive family fun, community spirit, and mini-donuts!

Volunteer with the Richmond Christmas Fund

Santa has posted his 'Elves Wanted' sign, and just like that, volunteer recruitment has begun for the 2023 Richmond Christmas Fund! Find out how you can get involved!

Applications Open for Community Accelerator

Be part of a new program that gives Richmond youth an opportunity to become social entrepreneurs! The first cohort launches in September, and there's still time to apply!

Richmond Christmas Fund Receives an Early Gift from Sage

It's the middle of summer, but Sage is already making holiday wishes come true! At its recent staff carnival, the company raised over $3,100 for the Richmond Christmas Fund.

Seniors Community Connections Expands Its Reach

To make it easier for older adults to access community services and supports, we're preparing to host a series of Mobile Information & Referral Clinics throughout Richmond.

Building Community with Bubbles

This summer, a creative Neighbourhood Small Grant project is helping to break down social, cultural, and language barriers - one big, beautiful, magical bubble at a time!

Steveston Beer & Wine Fest Makes a Triumphant Return

Presented by O'Hare's GastroPub & Liquor Store, the sold-out event took place June 17, at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, and helped raise over $2,000 for the Richmond Christmas Fund.

A Shining Light for Seniors

RCRG has joined the SHINE program, a province-wide initiative created to help seniors navigate housing services and access community supports.

RCRG Hosts 51st Annual General Meeting

Held June 21, RCRG's 2023 AGM was a chance to recognize our volunteers, thank our partners, and highlight the difference we make by Showing Up for Our Community.

Ba Da Ba Ba Bah, We're Lovin' It!

On May 10, as part of McHappy Day, RCRG received partial proceeds from sales at six local McDonald's locations, owned by Bill and Yolanda Chao. The total donation came to $10,000!

A Night to Celebrate Richmond's Star Volunteers

On April 19, the Volunteers Are Stars Awards made a dazzling in-person return. It was a remarkable evening, and we have a full recap - photos and video included!

Apply for a 2023 Neighbourhood Small Grant

Cooking classes! Cultural celebrations! Urban gardens! Neighbourhood Small Grants provide up to $500 to bring community projects to life. Yes, including yours!

The Volunteers Are Stars Awards Return April 19

Help recognize our community's most dedicated, passionate, and inspiring volunteers! Submit your nominations for the 2023 Volunteers Are Stars Awards by March 13.

One Last Word on the 2022 Richmond Christmas Fund

It's with much gratitude that we share our annual Christmas Fund Year in Review. This one's special, of course, because it caps off the program's 90th holiday season.

Become a Senior Peer Counsellor

Are you an older adult seeking a new volunteer opportunity? As a Senior Peer Counsellor, you can improve the lives of fellow seniors by providing one-on-one emotional support.

Community Services Recovery Fund

In January, new funding will be available to help local charities and non-profit organizations adapt to the long-term impacts of the pandemic.

Let the Bidding Begin!

The Richmond Christmas Fund's 2022 online auction is now open! Bid on over 300 items - from appliances to restaurant gift cards - with all proceeds benefitting families in need!

An Avalanche of Toys and a Mountain of Donuts

The Richmond RCMP Toy Drive returns to Lansdowne Centre on November 19! If you're a fan of festive family fun, community spirit, and mini-donuts, you don't want to miss it!

A Local Version of Google

Following a major update this summer, there's never been a better time to browse - and bookmark - our Community Services Directory, which features over 530 listings!

Richmond Community Foundation Opens Grant Applications

Registered charities operating in or serving the Richmond community can request funding to explore collaborative initiatives, expand current services, or launch new projects.

The Power of Listening

Are you an older adult looking to take on a new challenge? As a Senior Peer Counsellor, you'll learn new skills and make a meaningful difference in the lives of fellow seniors.

Not A Moment Wasted

This summer, RCRG co-op student Latisha Wong has learned a lot - and contributed even more! - as a member of our Seniors Community Support Services team.

Supporter Spotlight: TD Bank Group

TD Bank Group and its employees have been supporting RCRG since 2016. Most recently, the company contributed $26,000 towards the Christmas Fund and our Caregiver Hub.

Join Us for a Conversation on Indigenous Cultural Safety

On August 18, Brodie Douglas, a Citizen of the Métis Nation, will discuss steps your organization can take to honour Indigenous culture and further the goals of reconciliation.

Supporter Spotlight: Sage

This summer, the team at Sage is running a fundraising campaign in support of the Richmond Christmas Fund. For the past decade, we've benefitted from the company's generosity.

Updates from Our Members

Summer is here, and there's a lot happening in our community, especially among RCRG's member organizations. New websites, new events, new art exhibitions - let's go!

Special Delivery

The Volunteers Are Stars Awards happened virtually, back in April. This month, we finally got to deliver the awards to the recipients - and thank them again for their contributions.

RCRG Hosts 50th Annual General Meeting

For the first time in three years, we held our Annual General Meeting in person. If that wasn't exciting enough, we were also celebrating RCRG's 50th anniversary!

Leadership Richmond - Youth Now Program Comes to a Close

For 17 years, our Youth Now program helped train Richmond's next generation of community leaders. In May, the program held its final graduation ceremony.

Every Story Matters

Our Youth Now blog series concludes with a post from Sadaf Sediqi, who believes that a community grows stronger when it makes room for unique perspectives and diverse stories.

The Potential for Something Great

Casey Skuce wanted to learn more about Richmond's non-profit sector, and how community organizations operate. In our Youth Now program, she's getting a firsthand look.

What's Your Story?

Brandon Kato, who's participating in our Youth Now program, discusses his leadership journey, which has been marked self-reflection and perseverance.

Join Us in Recognizing Richmond's Star Volunteers

The Volunteers Are Stars Awards are back! We look forward to celebrating Richmond's volunteer spirit on April 27, but first, we're seeking as many nominations as possible.

Kick Start Your Education

After high school, where will your education take you? No matter the destination, the Richmond Community Foundation can help you get there. Apply today for a 2022 scholarship!

Winter Workshops at the Caregiver Hub

During the gloomy winter months, the Richmond Family & Friend Caregiver Hub will keep you active and engaged, with virtual workshops on finger knitting, mental wellness, and more!

Learn to Draw Insects with Bea Martin

Science illustrator extraordinaire Bea Martin is back with a new Neighbourhood Small Grant project! This time, she's turned her attention to the insect world, creating a series of creepy crawly nature journaling activities.

Thank You, Richmond, and Happy Holidays!

This year, the Richmond Christmas Fund helped brighten the holidays for over 2,300 of our neighbours in need. We're beyond grateful to everyone who made it possible.

Christmas Fund Auction Sets Fundraising Record

More than 200 community members participated in this year's Christmas Fund auction. Together, they placed over 1,000 bids, helping to raise nearly $47,000 for families in need.

The Christmas Fund Drive-Thru Event Is Back

On December 7, join us at Brighouse Fire Hall No. 1 for the Christmas Fund Drive-Thru Event! Drop off a toy and get a McDonald's coupon - the perfect way to start your morning!

Cops, Donuts, and Holiday Cheer

On November 20, the Richmond RCMP will host their annual Christmas Fund Toy Drive at Lansdowne Centre. Make a donation, and get a bag of mini-donuts in return!

Hope for the Holidays

Is it too earlier to be thinking about the holiday season? Not at RCRG! We're in full Christmas Fund mode, and when you're ready, there are many ways you can help make holiday wishes come true!

Fall Brings Fresh Batch of Caregiver Workshops

From exercise classes to chair yoga sessions, family and friend caregivers have plenty of options for staying active and healthy during the coming months.

A Rewarding Summer

This summer, countless seniors got to know Daniel Chan, who spent his co-op term with our Seniors Community Support Services, helping clients stay safe and healthy during the pandemic.

Introducing GiveShop

Like a more caring version of Kijiji, GiveShop allows you to turn your gently used items into cash donations for local charities, including RCRG. It's a new way to give back to your community - and clean out your garage!

#WearTheBear for Half the Price

Our #WearTheBear face masks are now 50% off, but 100% of proceeds still support RCRG's programs and services! Get yours for just $10 while supplies last!

Another Chance to #WearTheBear

We've partnered with our friends at Herbaland for the second edition of our #WearTheBear campaign. Purchase a face mask - featuring a pair of lovable bears - and help support RCRG's programs and services.

Our Volunteer Management Training Series Goes Virtual

Our popular Volunteer Management Training Series returns this May, as engaging as ever in a re-imagined virtual format. Don't miss this opportunity to kickstart a rewarding career in the non-profit sector.

In Someone Else's Shoes

David Yang is a young, passionate community leader, whose vision for Richmond is based in empathy. He knows our community will thrive only if everyone's voice is heard.

When Opportunity Knocks

Damanpreet Garcha has run with every opportunity she's been given, both personal and professional. That includes taking full advantage of her time in the Leadership Richmond - Youth Now program.

What Volunteering Means to Me

When Li Qing Wang enrolled in medical school, she had less time to volunteer. She's since rekindled her passion for community service in our Youth Now program, using what she's learned to grow as a person and future physician.

Ready for the Future, Whatever It Brings

There was a time when Alyssa Chen couldn't imagine herself as a community leader. Today, it's a role she's fully embracing, as a participant in the Leadership Richmond - Youth Now program.

An Impeccable Resume Gets Stronger

Bilan Hassan joined the Leadership Richmond - Youth Now program with a background in non-profit studies. Her time in the program has made her a more well-rounded community leader.

Always Learning, Always Growing

Mina Pavlovic kicks off this year's Leadership Richmond - Youth Now blog series, reflecting on her experience serving as a board member with the Richmond Addiction Services Society.

Seafair's No. 1 eLves Deliver Holiday Cheer

Applications are now open for the 2021 Neighbourhood Small Grants program, giving Richmond residents a chance to carry out their own community projects. If you need a little inspiration, look no further than Seafair's No. 1 eLves.

Are You a Caregiver?

People often take on the responsibilities of a caregiver before seeing themselves as one. Identifying with the role is important, however, because it's the first step to receiving support.

Volunteers Are Stars Goes Virtual

In the past year, when the world stopped, volunteers stepped up like never before. Help celebrate their contributions by submitting a nomination for the Volunteers Are Stars Awards.

Letting Students Forge Their Own Path

Through its diverse scholarship program, the Richmond Community Foundation empowers students to pursue their educational goals, wherever they may lead.

Celebrate a New Year with New Volunteer Role

Since the pandemic began, we've filled nearly 4,500 grocery orders for Richmond seniors. Help us keep this important service running by volunteering as a Shopping Assistant or Delivery Driver.

A Year to Forget, A Holiday Season to Remember

In 2020, during a global pandemic, the community came together to brighten the holidays for nearly 3,000 of our neighbours in need. It was an inspiring example of Richmond's giving spirit.

Holiday Heroes

Richmond Christmas Fund volunteers have always been awesome. This year, though, they can rightfully be called heroes.

Learning Objectives

Timothy Lai just completed his co-op term at RCRG. It's a summer he won't soon forget.

Change of Plans

What happens when your community leadership program is interrupted by a global pandemic? This year's Youth Now participants found a way to adapt.

An Unforgettable Experience

Youth Now participant Hailey Wang reflects on how the pandemic helped create a closer bond among this year's youth leaders.

Building Community Behind the Scenes

A first-year student at UBC's Sauder School of Business, Anthony Dy Ning explains how his experience in the Youth Now program has given him a new perspective on community.

A Different Approach

Vivien Wong, a Registered Nurse, describes how her experience in our Youth Now program has made her a more thoughtful, empathetic co-worker.

A Community Leader Takes the Next Step

For Rachel Ling, participating in the Leadership Richmond - Youth Now program has been a learning experience, and a stepping stone towards greater community involvement.

On The Road Again

RCRG has a new ride, thanks to the Rotary Club of Steveston. Find out how a generous donation helped us get back on the road again.

Building a Library

Checking in with our Child Care Resource & Referral Centre as it prepares to open the new Richmond Early Years Library.

Once In a Lifetime

It's been a decade since the 2010 Winter Olympics, and our memories remain as fond as ever.

On Blizzards, Real and Metaphorical

Jackson Kemmis, who's participating in this year's Youth Now program, compares it to a blizzard, in a good way.

Out of the Ordinary

More than making holiday wishes come true, Christmas Fund volunteers give meaning to the word "community."

Community Up Close

Shawn Badesha, an RCRG board member and participant in our 2019-20 Youth Now program, discusses his growing appreciation for the Richmond community.

Flipping the Page

A new year, a new decade, and a new chapter for RCRG.

When A Community Comes Together

A snapshot of the many supporters who make the Richmond Christmas Fund possible.

Wrapped To Perfection

On their busiest days, Christmas Fund gift wrap volunteers can wrap up to 80 presents. They could really use your help.

From Theory to Practice

Olivia Dong spent her summer co-op term with RCRG's Seniors Community Support Services, where she discovered that helping older adults first meant putting herself in their shoes.

A New Experience

Clara Tang, one of two co-op students to join our team this summer, gives an insightful account of her time at RCRG.

Half a World Away

Jasnique Gill-Nahal recently moved to Richmond from England, and found that volunteering was the perfect way to connect to her new community.

A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Alex Chau, a Gift Wrap volunteer with the Richmond Christmas Fund, explains how the role has helped build his confidence and his resume.

Senior Lives Through a Student's Eyes

Charlotte Choi, a co-op student from UBC, spent a memorable summer working with our Seniors Community Support Services.

Stepping Away from Old Age Stereotypes

Our Seniors Community Support Services department recently celebrated the completion of a yearlong project designed to combat ageism.

Hitting All the Right Notes... Child Care Style

Each May, the Richmond child care community pulls together to organize a huge celebratory event, the Child Care Gala Dinner. This year's theme was "Hitting All the Right Notes."

Road Trips and Friendships

A volunteer and a car. Put the two together, and they can change lives. Our Richmond Better at Home program is proof.

A Summer with Seniors

Crystal Man, our summer co-op student, worked in our Seniors Community Support Services department, arranging transportation for clients. Her contributions, though, didn't end there.

A Collection of Defining Moments

In this blog post, Mikaela Nuval, our summer co-op student, talks about her time at RCRG - her first professional experience and, by extension, her first foray into the non-profit field.

Now or Never: Taking the Leap with Youth Now

For young leaders, our Youth Now program perfectly encapsulates the old saying, "There's no better time than the present."

A Guide to Group Volunteering

Find out how you and your colleagues – or family members, teammates, friends, etc. – can volunteer, and make an impact, together.

On Kindness

Super Fun Groups and Friendship Soulmates

The Canadian Mental Health Association is Canada’s oldest mental health charity, making it a pioneer in the country’s diverse and vibrant non-profit sector.

Big Brothers, Bigger Impact

Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver was established in 1978, and Richmond is one of many communities the organization serves. To serve it better, however, Big Brothers needs more volunteers.

Her Own Path

Unexpected Friendships

Not ESL, But A Bookshelf

The Finish Line

An Eye-Opening Experience

A Summer of Firsts

Transforming Lives Through Martial Arts

Non-Profit Video Picks: May 2016

A Message from RCRG

It's been a long road between then and now.