Summer 2026 - Community Spotlight

Soul Picnic in Emporia!

Celebrate Juneteenth with the City of Emporia at the 2nd annual Soul Picnic! Enjoy an evening of entertainment by Brandon Roberts, music by Xpressionz Band, Miss Mickenzie, and DJ Playdat, comedy by Apple Brown Betty, and a “stroll and step” by the Divine 9 & Trailride Steppers! Spirits will be provided by the Top Hand Foundation.

Soul Picnic

Saturday, June 13, 2026
4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Veterans Memorial Park
- 201 S Main St., Emporia, VA 23847

Questions? Contact Emporia’s Economic Development Director at 434-634-5056.

FREE Dance Fitness Classes in Southside Richmond!

Join Dr. Shawnrell Blackwell, aka Dr. B, for FREE dance fitness classes at the Southside Community Center! If you’re looking to find the fun in fitness and build community this summer, Dr. B’s class is the perfect place to start. Did you know? Dr. Blackwell is an SCDHC homeowner! She utilized our housing counseling program to purchase her first home in Southside Richmond, and is now a Realtor herself, helping first-time homebuyers achieve their dreams. We could not be more thankful for the work Dr. B contributes to the greater Richmond community, and her passion for creating affordable homeownership opportunities.

Click HERE for the “Let’s Dance with Dr. B” 8News feature.

Click HERE to register for Dr. B’s class and other free fitness opportunities through Sports Backers.

Website: www.drshawnrellblackwell.realtor

Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_official_dr.b