vol. 252 / aspiration

vol. 252 / Aspiration

VOL. 252 / ASPIRATION

Meet this week's guest editor, Kathryn Thompson! As the Development Director for the Partnership for Housing Affordability (PHA), Kathryn is on a mission to make quality affordable housing a reality in the Richmond region. From championing forward-thinking policies to spearheading impactful programs, Kathryn’s work is shaping the future of housing equity. She also oversees the newly launched Henrico Housing Trust Fund, a bold initiative driving sustainable solutions for local communities.

Passionate about creating change, Kathryn is eager to connect with donors who share her vision for a more inclusive Richmond.

Take it away, Kathryn...

Edgar’s Sweet 216^th Birthday Bash

Celebrate Edgar Allan Poe’s 216th birthday at the Poe Museum’s Enchanted Garden with live music, dramatic readings, and guided tours. Enjoy themed refreshments, interactive activities, and exclusive access to exhibits featuring one of the largest collections of Poe artifacts!

Vitals:

Edgar’s Sweet 216th Birthday Bash / Saturday, January 18, 6:00 - 10:00 pm / $10 members, $20 general public / The Poe Museum, 1914 E Main Street

Dominion Energy Jazz Café @VMFA

Enjoy an evening of swinging jazz standards, beloved favorites, and a heartfelt tribute to the Father of Bebop Violin, Joe Kennedy, Jr.! Featured musicians include Larry Lyles on violin, Thomas Wakefield on guitar, Todd Woodson on drums, and David Yohe on bass. Get ready for a celebration of jazz at its finest!

Vitals:

Dominion Energy Jazz Café / Wednesday, January 22, 6:00 - 8:00 pm / FREE / Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Arthur Ashe Boulevard

State of Housing in the Richmond Region

Don’t miss the Richmond region’s premier annual housing event! The State of Housing will feature keynote speaker Keeanga Yamahtta-Taylor, acclaimed author of Race for Profit, offering powerful insights into the intersection of housing, race, and inequality. Newly elected Richmond Mayor Dr. Danny Avula will present his vision for housing over the next four years, and the Partnership for Housing Affordability will unveil their 2025 Housing Policy Agenda.

The event concludes with a catered networking reception, providing a chance to connect with leaders and advocates shaping the future of housing in the region!

Vitals:

The State of Housing / Thursday, January 23, 4:00 - 7:00 pm / $25 per person / Virginia Museum of History & Culture, 428 N Arthur Ashe Boulevard

More From Kathryn.

Kathryn wears many hats as an Usui Reiki Master and an aspiring filmmaker with a passion for storytelling and healing. Her debut film, The Return To Me, earned acclaim at three film festivals, including the prestigious San Diego Black Film Festival. A former Cadence Pipeline Fellowship fellow, Kathryn is now gearing up to produce her second short film this year.

In addition to filmmaking, Kathryn is an active member of VisArts, where she occasionally shares her writing at their events, bringing her unique voice to Richmond's creative community. Always looking to collaborate, Kathryn hopes to connect with fellow filmmakers and writers in the area.

For those seeking balance and restoration, Kathryn also offers Reiki sessions. Connect with her on Instagram, @TheUCLife, to learn more about her journey and schedule a session.

CONNECT WITH KATHRYN

Richmondclaire prendergastJanuary 16, 2025go, meet