**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

Tyrell Scott

Media & Marketing Coordinator

757-321-7078

tscott@bgcseva.org

Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority, United Way of South Hampton Roads, and Boys & Girls Clubs Celebrate Grand Opening of the Learning Trail in Grandy Village

Norfolk, VA – October 17, 2023 – The Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA), in collaboration with the United Way of South Hampton Roads and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia, proudly announces the grand opening of the Born Learning Trail at the Boys & Girls Clubs Grandy Village Club. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on October 10th, 2023, near the Grandy Village rental office, marking a significant milestone in promoting early childhood literacy and community engagement.

This event brought together key community leaders and speakers including some from United Way, NRHA, Boys & Girls Clubs, and school officials highlighting the collaborative efforts that made this initiative possible. Following a ceremonial ribbon cutting, families, Club members, and guests explored the new trail, engaging in interactive learning experiences and enjoying delicious snacks. This vibrant space aims to foster education, wellness, and community connection in the heart of Grandy Village, reinforcing a shared commitment to empowering local residents and nurturing the next generation. The trail features ten interactive signs that guide residents through various educational exercises, such as counting, identifying colors, and exploring nature, making learning both fun and engaging.

“The grand opening of the Born Learning Trail symbolizes NRHA, and our partners’, commitment to expanding access to new experiences, supporting educational enrichment, and creating healthy communities for all incomes and ages in the City of Norfolk.” Said Nathan Simms, Executive Director of NRHA. The installation of the Born Learning Trail in Grandy Village represents a significant addition to the resources available to families in the area. Over 750 trails have been installed across parks, schools, and communities nationwide, and the Grandy Village location is notable as the 12th trail established in Virginia and the fifth in Hampton Roads. It also holds the distinction of being the first trail located in NRHA’s family communities.

“We are excited to partner with Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority and the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Virginia to bring a Born Learning Trail to Grandy Village. We know this trail will help parents, grandparents, and caregivers turn everyday moments into fun learning opportunities and encourage families to get outside, be active, and spend time together.,” stated Mark Uren, President & CEO of United Way of South Hampton Roads.

We at Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia are thrilled to host this innovative learning experience within our Grandy Village facility. “We believe that every child deserves access to quality educational resources,” said Kevin Will, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia. “The Born Learning Trail will help equip our youth with the foundational skills they need to succeed, while also encouraging parents to engage in their learning journey” …. “It takes a village to give our kids all the resources they need to succeed.”

The community is encouraged to visit the Born Learning Trail and take advantage of its interactive learning opportunities. Families, students, & Club members can enjoy a walk along the trail while participating in the activities designed to enhance literacy and foster a love for learning in a fun and playful environment.

For more information about the Grandy Village’s Born Learning Trail and future Club events, please contact Tyrell Scott at 757-321-7078 or tscott@bgcseva.org

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About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Virginia:

For more than 100 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia (bgcseva.org) has enabled young people most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Today, the organization serves 7 cities throughout Southampton Roads and provides services to nearly 2,000 youth organization-wide. They provide a safe place, caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Club programs promote academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.

About NRHA:

Founded in 1940, NRHA is a national leader in community revitalization and fostering sustainable, mixed-income communities. As the largest redevelopment and housing authority in Virginia, NRHA is an important driver of the local economy. www.nrha.us.

About United Way of South Hampton Roads:

United Way of South Hampton Roads (UWSHR) is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families in our community by addressing the root causes of the most pressing issues. Through collaborative partnerships, innovative programs, and community-driven solutions, UWSHR brings people and resources together to create lasting change. From education and financial stability to health and basic needs, UWSHR focuses on building a strong, inclusive, and resilient region. With the support of donors, volunteers, and corporate partners, United Way of South Hampton Roads is committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has the opportunity to thrive. To learn more, visit www.unitedwayshr.org.