This week on Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, guest host Kalleigh Smith welcomes Kristi Cruse to talk about Richmond Parks and Recreation, the Richmond Farmers Market, and the opportunities you might be missing right in your own backyard. Think there’s nothing to do in Richmond? This episode might change your mind.

From JUCO (Just Us Kids Outdoors), a longtime free summer camp, to seasonal festivals and family activities, Kalleigh and Kristi explore how our parks bring people together without putting a strain on the family budget. They share the work behind these programs and why making them accessible matters.

The conversation also heads to the Richmond Farmers Market, where every purchase connects you with someone who grew it, made it, or baked it. Kristi discusses the standards behind the market, the relationships between vendors and shoppers, and how flooding has affected local farms. They also share simple ways to support growers and save seasonal produce for meals long after summer ends.

Beyond shopping local, the market helps get fresh food to more families. They discuss SNAP Double Dollars, WIC Market Match, and the Farm to Pantry project, which reimburses vendors for surplus perishable food that goes to local food pantries. You’ll also hear about the year-round market, its indoor winter season, Tuesday evening markets, fall events, and plans for a playground and splash pad project at Glen Miller Park.

Get to know the people and programs helping Richmond grow, and find something new to be part of. Follow Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, share this episode with a neighbor, and leave a quick review to help more people discover what’s happening in our community.