L.O.C.A.L. Adventures is a Richmond-based nonprofit that empowers youth to explore their inner and outer landscape through mindfulness, the arts, and outdoor adventures.
OUR MISSION
We teach children to develop inner toolkits for well-being through breath, creativity, and connection with the natural world.
Why L.O.C.A.L.?
At L.O.C.A.L., we’re committed to building strong, connected communities right here in Richmond. L.O.C.A.L. stands for Local, Outdoor, Creative, Aware Learning, reflecting our belief in creating meaningful, accessible programs. By focusing on Richmond’s youth, we empower the next generation to grow, thrive, and lead with resilience and creativity.
IMPACT MATTERS
IMPACT MATTERS
A JAMA Pediatrics study found that school-based mindfulness programs significantly reduce anxiety, improve focus, and enhance emotional regulation in kids, with some experiencing up to a 15% decrease in stress-related symptoms.
By building toolkits across Richmond, we’re not just teaching skills—we’re inspiring future leaders who will impact their schools, neighborhoods, and beyond.
PROGRAMS & OFFERINGS
Yoga
Yoga & mindfulness is the foundation of everything we do, integrating movement, breath, and presence to support self-awareness and resilience. We start by teaching basic mindfulness skills in the classroom, then carry these toolkits into every adventure—whether on the mat, in nature, or through creative expression.
Art
We teach creative expression as a pathway to confidence and connection. Whether shaping clay with our hands or exploring storytelling through digital media, our arts programs encourage youth to express themselves authentically, reflect on their experiences, and see the world through a new lens.
Outdoors
The James River Park System and surrounding waterways serve as our classroom, where adventure meets education. From hiking wooded trails to paddling along the river, we immerse youth in hands-on outdoor experiences that build confidence, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the natural world.
OUR VISION
We envision an RVA where children tap into their inner toolkit to overcome challenges and live happy, balanced, and fulfilling lives. We believe that sunlight, movement, and creativity are essential elements of this present state of being.
OUR VALUES
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Presence
We embody mindfulness practices to cultivate harmony within ourselves, others, and the natural world. Our presence offers a safe space for students and teachers, creating an environment where connection, calm, and openness thrive.
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Play
As body and nature explorers free from technology, we embrace joy, silliness, and creative self-expression. Through interactive experiences, our programs are designed to spark joy, enhance stress management, and help students find flow states that build resilience.
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Progress
We celebrate diversity, welcoming all cultures, ages, bodies, and backgrounds. By actively working to restore balance in historically marginalized spaces, we empower future generations to create a brighter, more equitable future.
Boys & Girls Club Southside Fall 2024 After-School Program
WE LOVE RICHMOND!
We love Richmond for its vibrant community and the James River Park System—an urban oasis with over 600 acres of outdoor space. As one of the largest riverfront parks in the U.S., it’s the perfect place for experiential learning, from paddling and hiking to meditating on the riverbanks. This unique space offers endless opportunities for growth, connection, and joy—where kids can explore, take risks, and develop a lifelong love for nature through play and discovery.
OUR PARTNERS
“I learned how to love my body to help build confidence when I need it.”
—Aliyah, L.O.C.A.L. Adventures student
“Be really still. Try and be present with yourself. Focus your breathing. Use your other senses.”
—Daijah, L.O.C.A.L. Adventures student, when asked what tools she has learned to manage stress
"When I feel stress, I remember to breathe and I can find my happy place."
—Elijah, L.O.C.A.L. Adventures student
“When I look in the mirror, I see a pretty, well-put-together young lady.
But when I’m around other people, it’s a different story.
I have to often take deep breaths in order for me to get ahold of myself; breathing is a way for me to get myself together emotionally and physically.”
- Cali, L.O.C.A.L. Adventures student