How was VHBG founded?

VHBG was started in 1846 in response to a small boy's request for pennies from the headmistress of the Female Humane Asylum in Richmond. Although she was unable to offer care to the boy because her home was restricted to girls only, the headmistress inspired a group of local leaders to band together to create the Richmond Male Orphan Asylum. VHBG has evolved and grown into a multi-service child & family services organization expanding services in our community.

Who are our children?

The majority of our children are from the Commonwealth of Virginia and in the custody of Department of Social Services. We serve refugee children from all over the world and those saved from the slavery of human trafficking.

Where do our children come from?

Children are referred by Departments of Social Services and other public agencies, private social service organizations, schools, parents or guardians and other professionals.

Where do the children attend school?

The majority of our children residing on campus attend Henrico County Public Schools. However, some attend our John G. Wood School if they have specialized academic or behavioral support needs. Local Day Students attend John G. Wood. Our foster children attend local public schools or John G. Wood.

How long does a child stay in residential care?

A child's length of stay is determined by the individual needs of the child and his/her parent/guardian's ability to care for them. Children in foster care stay with their foster families until they can safely return home or are adopted.

Where do children go when they leave residential care?

Whenever possible children return to their families although some may move on to independent living or foster care. Older teens graduate from high school or receive their G.E.D. and either go on to higher education, enter the military, or enter the workforce.

What kinds of foster care services will be offered?

Comprehensive foster care services are offered to boys and girls from birth to 17, including placement in highly-trained treatment foster homes, case management of all education and health care services, and individualized treatment planning with our multi-disciplinary team of professionals. VHBG foster care social workers will provide home-based consultation with families, as well as 24-hour emergency on-call support. Additionally, foster families and children will have access to both individual and family outpatient therapy services with licensed clinicians.

What are our campus facilities?

There are six residential group homes, an alternative education school, which includes therapeutic and medical services offices, a chapel and fellowship hall, and administration offices. Recreational facilities include a gymnasium, playing fields and swimming pool.

How can I help?

• Tell your friends and colleagues about our work.
• Become a foster parent and give a child the home he or she deserves.
• Provide tickets or resources for trips, outings, and cultural or sporting events.
• Make an in-kind gift.
• Make a cash gift.