Services and Enrollment
Services and Enrollment
John G. Wood School
John G. Wood School (JGW) is VHBG’s fully accredited specialized day school for students in grades K–12 who need a smaller, trauma-informed setting to address emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges. Our teachers and student support coaches focus on closing learning gaps and helping students make progress on their IEP goals, including transitioning back to public school when appropriate. JGW is aligned with Virginia Standards of Learning and is VAISEF accredited. JGW serves students with “Private Day School” designations and supports a wide range of abilities, including Autism, Emotional Disability, Intellectual Disability, Other Health Impairment, Specific Learning Disability, and Speech or Language Impairment.
Students benefit from on-site counseling, a positive behavioral approach, access to creative and sensory-based activities, and opportunities to earn Standard or Applied Studies Diplomas. Learning is supported through 1:1 coaching when indicated in a student’s IEP, blended learning options, and—when available—career and technical education pathways.
To make a referral, please contact Assistant Director, Brent Peebles at 804-270-6566 ext. 1680 or bpeebles@vhbg.org
Group Homes
Different from many Group Home environments, the Group Homes at VHBG are licensed by the Department of Social Services and situated on a 30-acre park-like campus. With a nurturing environment and individualized approach to teaching, young people begin to heal. Our services include life skill development in a teaching model, connections with family, recreational activities, and access to on-campus nursing and psychiatric services. The Group Homes at VHBG in part funded through local CSA funds and are accredited through CARF.
To make a referral please email all pertinent information to Admissions@vhbg.org or call 804-806-5747.
Transitional Living
Independent Living Arrangement (ILA)
This program supports young people (17021) aging out of foster care, including single young adults and parenting or pregnant youth with their children. Participants receive safe housing, case management, crisis support, and coaching in independent living skills, along with connections to community resources to help them transition successfully into adulthood with natural supports.
Services are funded through Fostering Futures and CSA.
For referrals or more information, contact Michael Rodriguez at mrodriguez@vhbg.org.
Housing Services
AFFIRMING, SUPPORTIVE HOUSING & SKILL BUILDING (Ages 18–25)
VHBG provides temporary housing (up to six months) for young adults experiencing homelessness, including Pride Place for LGBTQIA2S+ youth and a second home for any young adult in need. Participants receive support focused on securing stable housing while learning essential skills; they cover their own food, transportation, medical, and personal expenses.
For referrals or information, contact Andrew Parker at aparker@vhbg.org or 804-270-6566 ext. 1001.
Youth Programs
YOUTH OUTREACH (Ages 18–24)
Our outreach team helps young adults experiencing homelessness navigate resources, meet basic needs, and address barriers to stable housing.
For referrals, email iloutreach@vhbg.org.
RAPID REHOUSING / TRANSITIONAL HOUSING (Ages 18–24)
In partnership with HomeAgain and the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), VHBG provides rapid rehousing and transitional housing for single or parenting young adults. All referrals come through the GRCoC, and youth can connect to it through our Outreach Services.
Therapeutic Resources
Youth Mental Health First Aid Workshops
VHBG offers a free 8-hour Youth Mental Health First Aid workshop for adults who work with or support youth ages 12–18. Participants learn to spot signs of mental health challenges, understand risk factors, and use a simple five-step action plan to connect youth with appropriate support. The training includes a workbook, certified instruction, and a three-year certification.
The workshop is led by Karen Rice, LCSW, a nationally certified Mental Health First Aid instructor with over 30 years of experience. Seating is limited and requires an RSVP with name and email for enrollment and certificate preparation. If plans change, please let us know so we can offer the spot to someone else.