Henrico County’s general government and Henrico County Public Schools earned awards from the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) for three programs and initiatives, including an interactive display at the new Fairfield Area Library.
Overall, VACo’s 2020 Achievement Awards competition recognized 21 programs from 76 entries submitted by member counties across the state.
“In Henrico County, everything we do is centered around enhancing service to our ever-growing, ever-changing community,” County Manager John A. Vithoulkas said. “The outstanding projects recognized this year by VACo demonstrate our absolute commitment to understanding and working closely with our residents to better serve their needs.”
From Henrico’s general government, Henrico County Public Library earned awards for its Trailblazers Wall at the Fairfield Area Library and its LGBTQIA+ Book Discussion Group at Libbie Mill Library.
The Trailblazers Wall is a multimedia display that highlights people of color and women who have made significant contributions to the history and culture of the county, state and nation.
The display was conceived by Fairfield District Supervisor Frank J. Thornton and designed by a committee of community members to inspire residents, particularly youth. Fairfield Area Library opened its new location in October 2019.
The LGBTQIA+ Book Discussion Group was established in 2018 at Libbie Mill to provide a more welcoming space for the LGBTQIA community through outreach, planning, materials selection and engagement.
The group has met monthly, interacted with authors and attracted an average of 12 participants, often representing a wide range of ages, per session.
Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) earned an award for Queens UNITED, a mentorship program for teenage girls. UNITED is an acronym for Unity, Nobility, Integrity, Trustworthiness, Education and Destiny.
The program started in 2017 at Huguenot High School in Richmond and is now based at the Academy at Virginia Randolph in Henrico. It has grown to include more than 60 students, with many of its graduates progressing to a four-year university or community college.
Queens UNITED strives to help students succeed by cultivating self-awareness and accountability, positive relationships, educational and personal goal setting, leadership and community service opportunities and sisterhood.
