Kidz R Cookin’ has once again partnered with the City of Richmond and Nextup RVA. We are honored to have been chosen as one of the program providers for the 24/25 school year (PYD)Positive Youth and Development Programs and Events. (All information stated below is extracted directly from NextupRVA.org)

The PYD Fund is a critical component of the City of Richmond’s Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention (GVPI) Framework, a comprehensive and inclusive approach to reducing gun violence while strengthening community and individuals across Richmond. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts with community-based organizations across the city, NextUp advances evidence-based approaches to influence the risk and protective factors for youth violence as identified by the Centers for Disease Control.   

Mayor Levar Stoney states, “The programs target youth aged 12-19 and provide opportunities to learn, grow, and develop in a safe and supportive environment. These initiatives aim to nurture supportive family environments, bolster youth skills, facilitate connections with caring adults and engaging activities, and cultivate protective community settings while implementing preventive measures to drive positive youth development in the City of Richmond. “ 

NextUp’s President and CEO, Dr. Traymanesha Lamy, believes, “Quality out-of-school-time programs are a critical preventative measure in combatting gun violence in Richmond. NextUp is committed to investing in our young people and working closely with youth, families and program providers to ensure out-of-school-time opportunities are both safe and accessible.”