Answering a Community Need: Training Youth Development Professionals with RichmondYDN
The Richmond Youth Development Network (RichmondYDN), housed at the Mary and Frances Youth Center in the VCU’s Division of Community Engagement, is committed to fostering high-quality youth programs by ensuring that youth development professionals receive the training, resources, and connections they need to succeed. As a direct response to a community need, RichmondYDN hosted it’s inaugural Professional Skill-Building Day, designed to equip youth development professionals with essential skills to lead, grow, and make an impact.
This dynamic event was developed for the first-ever VCU Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Management cohort but was open to professionals in caregiving, education, healthcare, and social services. Held at the Boys and Girls Club Metro Richmond Teen Center, the event brought together 50 attendees, including expert facilitators, for a day filled with hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, and skill-building sessions.
Meeting the Needs of the Community
RichmondYDN recognizes that youth development professionals play a vital role in shaping the future of young people. However, to provide the best possible programs and support, these professionals need access to ongoing, culturally responsive professional development. The Professional Skill-Building Day was a crucial step in fulfilling this need, aligning directly with RichmondYDN’s mission to strengthen youth programs through shared learning and collaboration.
Engaging Workshops and Valuable Takeaways
The event’s agenda was carefully crafted to address key areas of professional growth, offering attendees tools and strategies to elevate their work. Sessions included:
- Imagining and Designing for Humans – A session focused on human-centered design and problem-solving.
- Developing Your Personal Statement – Helping professionals craft compelling narratives for career advancement.
- Starting or Running a Nonprofit – Guidance on launching and sustaining impactful organizations.
- Grants and Grant Writing – Insights on securing funding and navigating the grant application process.
- Circle Sounds – Exploring the role of music and creative expression in youth development.
- The Advantages of AI – Leveraging artificial intelligence tools to enhance professional productivity.
In addition to these interactive workshops, participants had access to expert tips on maximizing social media, harnessing AI tools, and received free professional headshots to support their career growth.
One attendee shared their thoughts on the experience: “I really loved hearing what different people had to say. I like to gain new perspectives from people who are experienced. It is very valuable.”
A Strong Network of Partners and Facilitators
This event was made possible through the collaboration of dedicated partners and facilitators from VCU and the greater Richmond community who brought their expertise to the table:
Partners:
- Jeanine Turner & Sean Miller – Boys and Girls Club
- Shelly Schuetz & Katherine Coates – VCU Office of Continuing and Professional Education
- Breanne Armbrust – Neighborhood Resource Center
- Dwayne Spiller – Sam’s Club
Facilitators:
- Jose Alcaine – VCU Office of Research and Faculty Development
- Zoe Gittings & Joseph Simpson – VCU Writing Center
- Lyn Koonce – Circle Sounds
- Mason Miles – VCU daVinci Center
- Singeth Perera – VCU Department of Foundations of Education
- Charlie Schmidt – Richmond Public Library
A Hub for Youth Development at VCU
Vaughn Garland, Youth Education Manager at the Mary and Frances Youth Center who spearheads RichmondYDN, shared, “The RichmondYDN Professional Skill-Building Day came to VCU out of a request from our current VCU Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Management cohort members. Our goal in this event was to call on our VCU partners and departments to prepare professionals across Richmond Region youth programs, classrooms, and health services with the practical skills and meaningful connections to support their career journeys. I appreciate the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Richmond for being invaluable partners and collaborators on this program, providing a space to cultivate essential workforce skills and strengthen our collective impact on the community. I also thank the VCU Office of Continuing and Professional Education, The VCU Writing Center, VCU School of Education, the daVinci Center and our community partners and guest facilitators for their support.”
The Professional Skill-Building Day was a testament to the power of community collaboration, professional development, and the shared commitment to advancing the youth development sector. By responding to the needs of the Richmond community, RichmondYDN and its partners are paving the way for a stronger, more effective youth workforce—one that is equipped to inspire and uplift the next generation.
For more information about the Greater Richmond Youth Development Network and upcoming professional development opportunities, visit MFYC.VCU.EDU.
Interested in the Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Program?
The 2025-2026 cohort is gearing up to launch, and registration is opening soon! Join us for an informational session on Thursday, March 27th at 2:00 p.m. to learn more about the program.
Click here to attend the informational session.
Share Your Feedback!
If you attended the Professional Skill Building Day, we’d love to hear about your experience! Your insights help us improve future events and ensure we continue to meet the needs of youth development professionals.
Thank you for being a part of this empowering event!