Cardinal Elementary School Partnership
Supporting Local Students and Families Through Our School Partnership
At First Unitarian Universalist RVA, we believe that caring for our community means investing deeply in the well-being of the next generation. Our ongoing partnership with Cardinal Elementary School allows our congregation to put our values into action by supporting local students, teachers, and staff throughout the school year. From volunteering as mentors and classroom helpers to organizing essential school supply drives and winter clothing collections, our collective efforts help create a more equitable and supportive environment for young learners. Join us in strengthening this vital neighborhood connection and making a tangible, positive impact in the lives of Richmond families.
Cardinal Elementary School is filled with children who love to hear a story. Reading to them promotes their English language skills and love of reading. We welcome new volunteers to read to K-2 classes for about 20 minutes once a week or every other week beginning in the Fall. Also, some volunteers work with small groups of 2nd graders who need more support. In order to volunteer, you must do a one hour orientation sponsored by Communities In Schools during which you will agree to a criminal background check. The next orientation session is in mid-July and there are multiple orientation sessions available throughout the summer and Fall.
CDS for DONATIONS FOR CHOIR PROGRAM AT CARDINAL
Located on Richmond’s Southside, the student population at Cardinal Elementary School is mostly African American and Latinx American, with the fastest growing Latinx population of any school in Richmond; more than 90 percent of the students are living at or below poverty level.
First UU’s partnership with Cardinal is part of Richmond city’s Micah Initiative. Everyone engaging with Cardinal is a member of our “Cardinal Team.” During our meetings, we reflect on what we are doing; deepen our understanding of cultural differences; explore issues of marginalization and privilege; and live the deeper truth that EVERY child is OUR child. We coordinate our activities and contributions through the Communities In Schools (CIS) Coordinator assigned to the school by CIS.
As the “Cardinal Team” we contribute to the school in the following ways:
Backpack Snacks with food provided by Feed More for families who are not able to provide adequate food on the weekends when the children are not having breakfast and lunch at school,
Winter coats, sweaters, and other clothing items donated by members of the church as needed,
Mentoring by becoming an adult friend to a child selected by the CIS coordinator at a time convenient to you once a week,
Weekly visits of 20 -30 minutes to read to a kindergarten or first grade class,
Contributing to teacher appreciation day, perfect attendance day, and other special days throughout the school year.