Chesapeake Thrives

02/17/2026

02/17/2026

Episode 52 of The Chesapeake Thrives Show features Kathy Dial, Executive Director of Kids Kin ’N Caregivers, as she shares what kinship care really looks like and why supporting grandparents and relatives raising children is so important. Kathy talks about the challenges many kinship families face behind the scenes, the practical ways Kids Kin n Caregivers steps in to support them, and real examples of how this work is changing lives. Learn how you can get involved or find help.
Watch the full episode to hear the story behind the impact: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzRX522s4A0&list=PLd703vm-wpXsCnayCbuupTqKb_GLm32PJ&index=49

02/10/2026

All City of Chesapeake offices, courts, community centers, Chesapeake Public Library locations, and Chesapeake Animal Services will be closed on Monday, February 16, in observance of the George Washington Day holiday. The Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism Visitor Center will be open from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. There will be no changes to trash collection schedules.

02/10/2026

Honoring the strength, brilliance, and legacy of the Black community this Black History Month. We reflect on the past, uplift the present, and continue building a future where every voice and story matters.

02/09/2026

February is Black History Month, a perfect time to focus on improving Black maternal health. Black women are 3 times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than White women. Multiple factors contribute to the disparities & SDOH prevent fair opportunities for economic, physical, & emotional health. (CDC)

Get care early, recognize warning signs, & get support to improve health at pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if something feels wrong & stay in touch for up to a year after delivery.

02/09/2026

Happy Kindness Week, Chesapeake!
Let’s spread compassion, warmth, and understanding in our homes, schools, and neighborhoods. Every small act of kindness helps our community thrive.

02/09/2026

Our first Chesapeake Thrives monthly newsletter is here! This issue highlights community voices, shared priorities, and the work moving Chesapeake forward. Take a moment to read, reflect, and stay connected.
Link to view: https://www.canva.com/design/DAG-_FGXGGI/SCw621HeRHsizWSZRk02JQ/view?utm_content=DAG-_FGXGGI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=heb23a5e501

02/06/2026

UPDATE: All bus tour dates are full. All are welcome to join the waitlist.
Join us as we recognize Black History Month with a free bus tour of local, African American historic sites. Knowledgeable guides will lead you across Chesapeake, discussing how the educational experience differed for Black and white students before school integration. Space is limited for this program. Call (757) 382-6411 to register or reserve your spot at the link: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/cityofchesapeake/activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_select_param=2&activity_keyword=African%20American%20History%20Bus%20Tour&viewMode=list

City of Chesapeake Government Chesapeake Historic Preservation Commission Visit Chesapeake, VA

02/02/2026

Preparing for an IEP meeting doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. This upcoming webinar can help.

The Ins and Outs of IEP Meetings
This session is designed to help families feel prepared and confident before an IEP meeting. Learn what to expect, how to plan ahead, and ways to collaborate effectively with your child’s school team.
Thursday, February 5, 2026 | 6:30 PM
https://peatc.org/event/the-ins-and-outs-of-iep-meetings-4/

Whether this is your first IEP meeting or you’re looking to strengthen your approach, this webinar offers practical tools to support student-centered, productive conversations. Please share with anyone who may benefit.

01/31/2026

Join for an uplifting and engaging Parent Cafe where you'll explore ways to strengthen family connections and nurture relationships that stand the test of time. Through meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and practical tools, parents will discover how to create lasting bonds with their children and community. Come connect, reflect, and grow together in a welcoming space designed just for you.

Link to register: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=oet-FfXGDEGj-sEC2nDaIouaW0dJIElPp53zeKT0EPBUQzJSN0xBRVJYODBKSllFQ1lIQVhZV1Y1Ty4u&origin=QRCode

Please share with your family and friends of the community.

01/30/2026

Proud to support this opportunity for childcare leaders in our community!

The 2025–2026 Directors Leadership Academy is now open, offering family day home providers and childcare center director's practical tools to strengthen leadership, finances, and program quality. Best part—all tuition and fees are covered by community sponsors.

If you’re looking to grow, connect, and build a stronger foundation for your program, this is a great opportunity. Check out the flyer for details and registration info!

01/27/2026