Richmond Conexiones is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization that designs its programs according to the needs and interests of the mostly Latinx immigrant residents in Southwood apartments and southside Richmond.
Richmond Conexiones is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization that designs its programs according to the needs and interests of the mostly Latino immigrant residents in Southwood apartments and southside Richmond. The organization consists of a set of community programs operated by a director, a program manager and a network of community members and volunteers. Conexiones maintains flexibility and autonomy by relying 100% on private donations and small fundraisers to run its programs. See what your donation will go to below!
Our Programs
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El Campo Soccer Clinic
El Campo free summer soccer clinic has been Conexiones' staple program for 5 years running with ten volunteer coaches training as many as 50 kids and youth of all ages. All soccer equipment donated or purchased for El Campo is distributed among program participants. During the holidays, Conexiones partners with Strictly Soccer Store to do a Christmas soccer gift drive for El Campo kids.
Family Support Program
Observing the lack of support services available to people struggling with low resources in Southside, Dustin began to offer “pay what/if you can” transportation, assistance, and interpretation in schools, courts, and health agencies in 2013, mostly to single mothers or survivors of partner abuse. The program has grown to include ICE out of RVA support to families that have experienced a detention or deportation.
Summer Lunch Program
All summer Monday to Friday kids get a free lunch they would have eaten during the school year. Over the years Conexiones has offered art and community garden activities and Latin-American dance classes after the kids eat. This year the program was sponsored by the Victory Family Worship Center.
Winter Coat Drive
In November for the past four years, local businesses, churches, and individuals donate coats and other clothing for all ages who are unable to afford adequate winter outerwear. Children of America in Glen Allen are the primary donors.
Mi Mochilón (My Big Backpack)
Since 2013 Richmond Conexiones has accepted donations of backpacks and school supplies from local businesses, churches, and individuals. At the beginning of the school year, community members organize donations and families take what they need for the school year.
Conversational ESL/ Homework Help
For seven years, volunteers have taught conversational English to adults in Southwood Apartments at no cost. Every class begins with learners stating what they need to say and the teacher shapes exercises accordingly. Classes are designed with minimal writing to be accessible to folks at all levels of literacy. Conexiones provides childcare and homework help during classes so parents are able to attend.
Who Are We?
Dustin “Mateo” King
Executive Director
Dustin first built relationships in the local Latino immigrant community through mental health counseling, youth mentoring, and school advocacy starting in 2011. Over the following years, he partnered with community members to develop a set of programs that were incorporated into a 501c3 in January 2015.
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