RICHMOND FIRST

A civic organization dedicated to responsible citizenship and the improvement of government since 1919.

Lewis Ginter picture

Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Richmond First Program

Richmond's Beautiful Gem:
Exciting Expansion Plans for Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Join us at our new meeting venue next year-Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden-for a special double feature! Enjoy a presentation by Dr. Brian Trader, President and CEO, as he shares exciting plans for the Garden's major expansion. Then, take a guided tour of the beautiful grounds. We will gather in the Robins Room at the main Garden visitor's entrance. Lewis Ginter is regularly ranked among America's top botanical gardens.


January 15, 2025

Richmond First presents the 2024 Annual Good Government and Leadership Award

Leadership award ceremony picture

Recipients

Thornton2 pictureObannon2 picture

Frank J. Thornton                               Patricia S. O'Bannon

On January 15, 2025, Richmond First honored Patricia O'Bannon and Frank J. Thornton, former Henrico Board of Supervisors members, with the 2024 Good Government and Leadership Award for their exceptional bipartisan public service.

To watch the full ceremony, visit: RFC 2024 Good Government and Leadership Award.

To view Patricia O'Bannon's remarks on leadership, go to: Leadership.



The Richmond First founders shared a common vision of creating an organization that would inform the public and political leaders about a broad range of civic issues, policies and solutions. The spirit of enlightened activism that initially inspired the formation of the organization in 1919 lives on in our current review of and involvement in current issues in the Richmond metropolitan area. During its 104-year history, the organization has provided nonpartisan leadership on a number of issues critical to the quality of governance in the region. Through its work, Richmond First (RFC) promotes responsible citizenship and governance.

WHEN ARE MEETINGS?

Monthly luncheon meetings are held at noon on the second Wednesday of each month at Willow Oaks Country Club. Excellent speakers have long been the centerpiece of RFC's work. Known as a knowledgeable, informed group, our membership attracts respected, well-known leaders.

Speakers include educators, candidates for office, government officials, political analysts, and specialists in transportation, tourism, regional cooperation, health care, housing, and other matters of public interest.

WHO BELONGS?

Membership is open to all who want to stay well informed about community and governmental issues.

If you're looking for an opportunity to learn and to contribute to our region, RFC is the right choice.

IS RFC PARTISAN?

No, RFC strives to be nonpartisan in the selection of speakers and topics for meetings. Balance has always been a hallmark of the club and its leadership.

ADVOCACY:

RFC joins with like-mined organizations to advocate for good government and community development:

HOW CAN I JOIN?

Please check our Membership page for additional information.