Richmond Connects
Online Activities & Resources
Welcome to the City of Richmond’s online hub, a place for community members to stay connected, active and supported during this unprecedented time. In addition to enhancing individual and community well-being, your participation in Richmond Connects will continue to highlight our city as an active and healthy community as we continue to strive for excellence in wellness, recreation, sport, health and physical activity.
The hub’s recreational opportunities include virtual activities that cover physical activity, sports, arts, culture and heritage, in addition to wellness resources for all ages.
2 Ways to Register
- Online: Select a blue button below to browse and register for online programs by age, including fitness classes
- Phone: Registration Call Centre at 604-276-4300, Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm
Online Programs
PRESCHOOLERS
CHILDREN
YOUTH
ADULTS
55+
In-person & Online - All Programs
The City is reopening services, amenities and facilities impacted by COVID-19 with a carefully planned approach. Select the link below to browse and register for all programs.
Activities & Resources
Preschoolers (up to 5 years)
Children (6 to 12 years)
Youth (13 to 18 years)
Adults (18+ years)
55+ years
Virtual Resources
Arts, Culture and Heritage
Connect with Us!
Preschoolers (up to 5 years)
Babytime with Richmond Public Library
Tue: 1:00pm
Connect and help develop language skills with your baby through books, songs and rhymes.
Info: Virtual Babytime
Storytime with Richmond Public Library
Mon/Wed/Sat: 10:00am
Have fun sharing great stories and songs from the comfort of your couch.
Info: Storytime
Children (6-12 years)
Active For Life
Check out this great resource by this Canadian not-for-profit social initiative created to help parents give their children the right start in life through development of physical literacy. See below for some helpful articles:
Parenting through the pandemic: Simple tips to help you cope
A printable outline to help kids plan their own day
Parents: You're doing an amazing job (Elmo's dad agrees!)
7 signs your child may be feeling anxious (and what you can do about it)
6 mood-boosting yoga poses you can do with kids
Anti-Boredom Challenges
Don't forget your ABCs by participating in this bi-weekly challenge that includes outdoor play, music, baking/cooking and mystery challenges!
Anti Boredom Challenge - Edition 1
Anti Boredom Challenge - Edition 2
Anti Boredom Challenge - Edition 3
Anti Boredom Challenge - Edition 4
Anti Boredom Challenge - Edition 5
Anti Boredom Challenge - Edition 6
Anti Boredom Challenge - Edition 7
Connect with Nature
Download the iNaturalist app and become a citizen scientist. Learn about nature, create and share useful data and connect with experts using this interactive app.
For more information: iNaturalist
The Importance of Staying Active
Physical Literacy Infograph
What is physical literacy?
Stay physically active during self-quarantine
Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines
How physical activity can help improve your sleep and overall health
Summer Reading Club
Children of all ages are invited to join Richmond Public Library's free online Summer Reading Club! Starting June 15, stop by any RPL branch to pick up your reading booklet and stickers or register online at bcsrc.ca. Pick a reading goal for your family that you will work on at home and record your reading progress to collect stickers or earn digital badges. Complete all challenges to earn a medal at the end of summer.
Richmond Public Library Programs
The library is offering a variety of fun programs for kids, including Storytimes in the Park as well as science and technology programs hosted by Parks Canada and Scientists in Schools.
For more information: Richmond Public Library Events Calendar or call 604-231-6412
Youth (13-18 years)
Youth Team on Instagram!
The City of Richmond Youth Team has its very own Instagram account. Follow to see what's happening for youth in Richmond, #RichCityYouth
Follow us: @CityofRichmondYouth
Remote RYMP (Richmond Youth Media Program)
Mon/Wed: 3:00-5:00pm
Fri: 7:00-9:00pm
Participate in media arts skills sessions, virtual museum tours, online screenings and group discussion. RYMP is a referral based program for 13 to 24 year olds.
All online sessions are hosted through the Discord App. To download the app: Discord App
Info: RYMP, Lauren.BurrowsBackhouse@richmond.ca
Stay Healthy at Home
Adults (19+ years)
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
The Canadian Mental Health Association has created a specific set of resources to support individuals and families stay well during these uncertain times. Register to access live counselling, peer support, crisis support and more.
To register: CMHA COVID-19 wellness site
The World Health Organization has released helpful information for parents during this time. Topics include learning through play, keeping calm and managing stress, talking about COVID-19 and more.
Info: World Health Organization - COVID-19 Parenting
English Corner Online
Thu: 11:00am-12:30pm
This program, offered by Richmond Public Library, will focus on everyday survival English, simple vocabulary and phonetic pronunciations. Suitable for intermediate level and above (LINC 4 and above) English learners. Registration is required.
For more information: English Corner Online
Note: Registration opens the Monday before each session at 10:00am.
Walk Richmond
Use Richmond's Walking Guide book to stretch and get some fresh air!
Richmond Walking Guide Book
Note: Some trails may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Check the following page for the most up-to-date closures: Affected City Services & Facilities
55+ years
10 Functional Strength Training Exercises
Join West Richmond’s Fitness Coordinator, Murray Phillips as he walks through 10 easy exercises to do from home.
*Be mindful of your physical capacity and assess whether this workout is right for you. If it is too difficult, modify the exercises to suit your abilities or check out other classes or posts for more suitable workouts. Ensure you have no hazards around you, take breaks when necessary. Stay hydrated. Stop if you feel unwell or uncomfortable.
| Exercise | Length |
|---|---|
| 10 Functional Strength Training Exercises |
17 min |
Let's Connect!
Our Senior Coordinators are here to connect! Many of the activities below offer an opportunity for dialogue and discussion with your local Senior Coordinator. Please do not hesitate to reach out, we can't wait to hear from you!
Seniors Coordinator Contact List
Supporting Richmond Seniors
During the current COVID-19 outbreak, the City encourages residents to make time to stay physically and mentally well: eat healthy, be as active as possible and stay connected to others.
Info: Supporting Richmond Seniors
Richmond Seniors Resource Guide1-on-1 with a Librarian
Mon-Fri: 10:00-6:00pm
Sat: 10:00am-4:00pm
Have a question about Richmond Public Library's digital resources? Contact the library for 1-on-1 help with a librarian.
For assistance: Call 604-231-6413 or send a message https://www.yourlibrary.ca/ask-us on the "Ask Us" page.
Beyond the Books Club
4th Wed/month: 10:00-10:40am
Become more socially connected by joining in on free virtual group discussions to learn more about what books, movies, shows and podcasts are available.
Beyond the Books ClubChoose to Move Program
A collection of trusted resources to help older adults stay physically active and socially connected. See a full list of activities to support everything from building strength, balance and flexibility to mental health and printable resources.
Info: Choose to Move Website
Coffee & Tea Chat
2nd Thu/month: 10:30-11:30am
Let's connect! Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while socializing and building community. Relax and engage in light conversation and games. All meetings take place over the phone or the Zoom app.
To register: Contact your facility Seniors Coordinator
Connecting Virtually
Easy step-by-step guides to navigate popular video platforms:
Facebook Messenger Video
Zoom
Skype
Gentlemen in Conversation
2nd Fri/month: 10:30-11:30am
Connect with new and old friends from the comforts of your home. This group offers the opportunity to share stories, ideas and laughs. Engage with others through a live conversation on Zoom.
Email: trey.melton@richmond.ca
Journey Through Time
2nd Wed/month: 10:00-11:30am
Travel back through time and discover the history of Richmond on this unique virtual tour. This program is offered in collaboration with the Friends of the Richmond Archives. Registration required.
Email: karen.chiu@richmond.ca
Meals to Go at Seniors Centre at Minoru Centre for Active Living
The Seniors Centre at Minoru Centre for Active Living is offering a take-out service—for all ages - Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 2:00pm (closed statutory holidays). Daily menu: minorucentre.ca/cafeteria.
Nutritious fresh and frozen items include $7.35 entrees, $3.15 soups and limited baked goods. Simply knock on the west doors (near the cafeteria) or call the Front Desk at 604-238-8450 during operating hours for entry into the building. While cash is accepted, the use of debit/credit tap payments is preferred.
Phone-In Programs
These specialty programs are available for individuals who are unable to leave their homes to participate in recreational activities. Phone-In Programs are a great opportunity to stay socially connected with minimal technical requirements.
For more information: Phone-In Program Opportunities
Read, Relax & Rejuvenate
Energize the mind and stay connected with the new and engaging Seniors Newsletter with special articles, brain games and recipes selected for you by community Seniors Coordinators.
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 1
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 2
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 3
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 4
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 5
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 6
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 7
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 8
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 9
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 10
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 11
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 12
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 13
Seniors Newsletter - Edition 14
Self-Care Bingo
Participate in this easy wellness activity. What pattern of B-I-N-G-O can you complete this week?
Self-Care Bingo
Stay Connected, Healthy & Active
6 Simple Wellness Tips (that can be done daily!)
Take yourself for a walk in your backyard or around the block and enjoy nature's bounty through all your senses. Suggestions: keep a journal to record your observations.
The 5 Senses of Nature - Jun 2020 The 5 Senses of Nature - Jul 2020 The 5 Senses of Nature - Aug 2020 The 5 Senses of Nature - Sep 2020 The 5 Senses of Nature - Oct 2020 The 5 Senses of Nature - Nov 2020 The 5 Senses of Nature - Dec 2020 The 5 Senses of Nature - Jan 2021 The 5 Senses of Nature - Feb 2021Virtual Meeting Backgrounds
Discover Richmond from your very own home with new downloadable #RichmondConnects backdrops for apps like WebEx and Zoom. Customize your virtual setting by downloading the images below to use as your background for video call meetings.
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Arts, Culture and Heritage
Britannia Shipyards
3D Tours
Use Internet Explorer 11+, Chrome or Firefox to virtually click on the buildings and take a 3D tour of exhibit buildings!
Info: Britannia 3D Tours
Short Guided Tours
Explore the secret corners, interesting artifacts and amazing stories of Britannia Shipyard.
Visit Britannia Short Guided Tours for more information.
Community Art Exhibitions: Online Edition
With the current closure of the Richmond Cultural Centre, art exhibitions that are usually enjoyed in the Upper Rotunda Exhibition spaces have been suspended. Until now! Enjoy art work from some of the Richmond Art Centre's Resident Art Groups virtually. Check back regularly as new pieces will be added continuously.
Info: Online Community Art Exhibitions
Richmond Art Gallery
Art At Work: Selling Your Artwork
A series of professional development workshops designed for visual artists. Presented by Public Art Richmond and Richmond Art Gallery in partnership with the City of Richmond Arts Services and CARFAC BC.
Info: Art at Work
Exhibiting Artists Interviews
Check out artists' works from the Richmond Art Gallery's archives to today.
Info: Exhibiting Artists Interviews
RAG@Home
This is a new way to enjoy the gallery from wherever you may be. Bringing you into the building virtually, RAG@Home gives everyone a chance to engage with art and the RAG Team through interesting and diverse programming, videos and activites. New content added weekly.
Info: RAG@home
Richmond Museum
Online Artefact Collection
Explore over 2000 artefacts in the City of Richmond's collection.
Info: City of Richmond Artefact Collection
Steveston Tram
Take a virtual tour of the Steveston Tram.
Experience now: Interactive 3D Exhibit Tour (Compatible with Google Chrome, Firefox or Internet Explorer 11+)
Our facilities may be closed but our staff are eager to continue connecting with the community through the many social media channels below.
Britannia Shipyards
Website: www.richmond.ca/britannia
@BritShipyards
@BritanniaShipyards
Cambie Community Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/cambie
@CambieCommunityCentre
@CambieCC
@CambieYouth
City of Richmond Events
@FunRichmond
City Centre Community Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/citycentre
@CityCentreCC
@CityCentreCC
Hamilton Community Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/hamilton
@HamiltonCommunityCentre
@HamiltonCommunityCentre
Minoru Centre for Active Living
Website: www.minorucentre.ca
@minorucentre
@minorucentre
Richmond Art Gallery
Website: www.richmond.ca/artgallery and www.richmondartgallery.org
@RichmondArtGalleryBC
@RichmondArtGallery
@RAG_Gallery_BC
Richmond Arts Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/artscentre
@RichmondArtsCentre
@HowArtWorks
Richmond Public Library
Website: www.yourlibrary.ca
@YourLibraryRichmond
@RPLBC
@RPLBC
Richmond Youth Basketball League (RYBL)
@RichmondYouthBasketballLeague
South Arm Community Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/southarm
@SouthArmCC
@SouthArmCC
@SouthArmCCYouth
@SouthArmCC
Steveston Community Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/steveston and www.stevestoncommunitysociety.com
@StevestonCommunityCentre
@StevestonCC
@StevestonCCYouth
@StevestonCS
Thompson Community Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/thompson
@ThompsonCC51
@ThompsonYouth
@ThompsonCCFitness
@ThompsonYouth
Rompers Preschool:
@ThompsonEarlyLearning
@ThompsonaerlyLearning
Terra Nova Nature School: www.terranovanatureschool.com
@tnnatureschool
West Richmond Community Centre
Website: www.richmond.ca/westrichmond
@WestRichmondCC
@WestRichmondCC
@WestRichmondCC
Childcare Programs: www.westrichmondchildcare.org
@WestRichmondChildcareServices
@WestRichmondPreschool