Earth Day Launch Party

Written By Sarah Wilkinson

On Earth Day (April 22, 2025), we launched our collaborative Cool the City campaign to address the impacts of extreme heat and flooding in Richmond’s neighborhoods that need it most. Campaign partners gathered with over 200 community members to share the joy of great food, music, and activities, plant trees at Broad Rock Sports Complex, and highlight the critical work we’re doing to enhance the health and quality of life for families in Richmond.

A city employee moves a tree while two others stand nearby as they prepare to plant the tree at Broad Rock Sports Complex
A group of Cool the City partners work together to prepare a potted tree for planting at Broad Rock Sports Complex.
Community members make their own fresh flower bouquets at the Richmond Flower Truck station.
Two city employees work together to dump mulch around a newly planted tree at Broad Rock Sports Complex.
A young boy savors an ice cream treat while standing in front of Southside ReLeaf’s tabling booth.
Cool the City partners gather with fun props to take a photo with the photo booth.
Southside ReLeaf staff members gather with fun props and a Cool the City tote bag to take a photo with the photo booth.
A Cool the City tote bag that was just screen-printed by Studio Two Three's mobile screen-printing station.
Mayor Avula speaks at a lectern featuring the City of Richmond and Cool the City logos. Other City officials stand behind him along with Jeremy Hoffman of Groundwork USA.
A woman applies face paint to Glenn Allen of Virginia Interfaith Power & Light during the event.
Monica Esparza prepares a fresh fruit display at the I Kale Life food station.
Councilwoman Nicole Jones speaks behind a lectern featuring the City of Richmond logo. Other city officials and Jeremy Hoffman of Groundwork USA stand behind her.
Sheri of Southside ReLeaf stands in front of a news camera while Kami and two news crew stand behind the camera.
Cool the City partners gather with fun props to take a photo with the photo booth.
Cool the City partners gather with fun props to take a photo with the photo booth.
Sarah Wilkinson
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In the News: Richmond kicks off Cool the City campaign