Youth speakers pitch a Gilpin neighborhood trade school to council, ask for support

Two young residents and a community member spoke at the Richmond City Council public comment period in support of a proposed trade school for the Gilpin neighborhood that would offer hands‑on exhibits and introductory skills training in trades such as carpentry and technology.

Cordae Hodges Jr., representing the Gilpin Fund residents, introduced the idea and said the project is led by community volunteers, including his mother, who has paid out of pocket to survey and advertise the proposal. He said the effort is student‑driven and requested council and staff interest and follow‑up. Nariah Stith told the council the trade school would provide career guidance and job opportunities for youth who may not pursue college: “...you do not need college to be something in life,” she said, arguing a trade school could offer direct career pathways.

Council response President Newbill invited Amy Popovich (a council staff member) to collect the students’ contact information so the administration could follow up. Councilmembers told the young speakers they appreciated their proposals and encouraged them to continue engaging with the council.

Context and details Speakers described the proposed trade school as an interactive learning environment combining education with real‑world applications, designed to inspire and prepare students for skilled careers. The presenters said the initiative began with grassroots outreach, including surveys and local advertising funded by community volunteers.

Next steps Council staff indicated they would collect contact information from the presenters for follow‑up. No formal council action, funding or referral was taken at the meeting; the presentation was entered in the public comment record.