RICHMOND, Va. – On Wednesday, October 8th, the Richmond community came together for a slice of generosity as Mellow Mushroom Short Pump and its incredible team raised more than $11,000 to support World Pediatrics, a Richmond-based international nonprofit celebrating its 25th year of transforming access to advanced pediatric healthcare around the world.
The impressive total came from the restaurant’s full-day give-back event—where 100% of sales were donated to World Pediatrics, combined with proceeds throughout the month of October from Mellow Mushroom’s Lavender Lemonade cocktail and mocktail and its much-loved Pepperoni Rolls appetizer.
“This is what community looks like,” said Romina Newman, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at World Pediatrics. “From the Mellow Mushroom Short Pump staff who poured their hearts into the day, to every guest who dined in or ordered out, Richmond once again showed how something as simple as sharing a meal can change a child’s life. That’s what we like to call pizza for a purpose.”
The event was a collaborative effort between the Mellow Mushroom Short Pump team, the Mellow Mushroom corporate office, and World Pediatrics, with strong local support from families, friends, and businesses across Richmond—including members of the World Pediatrics Richmond Board, who came out to show their support. Owners Joel Gilbert and Jay Shah, longtime supporters of World Pediatrics, and their staff created a fun, welcoming atmosphere that reflected the best of community spirit, where every slice, sip, and smile helped make a difference during this milestone year for the organization. Over the years, support provided by Mellow Mushroom Short Pump has enabled World Pediatrics to facilitate over $690,000 in donated pediatric specialist care.
As World Pediatrics marks 25 years of healing children, empowering medical providers, and strengthening healthcare systems across Latin America, the Caribbean and beyond, partnerships like this highlight the power of community in fueling lasting global impact.
About World Pediatrics
Formally known as International Hospital for Children and World Pediatric Project, World Pediatrics is a Richmond-based nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming access to advanced pediatric healthcare. Through volunteer medical professionals and partner hospitals, the organization provides life-changing care to children with complex medical needs while building sustainable local capacity through training and collaboration. Its mission is to heal more children, in less time, by transforming access to advanced pediatric healthcare. Learn more at worldpediatrics.org.
About Mellow Mushroom Short Pump
Locally owned and operated, Mellow Mushroom Short Pump serves handcrafted, stone-baked pizzas, creative cocktails, and community spirit in every dish. The restaurant and its staff are proud to support local nonprofits and initiatives that make a difference for children and families across the Richmond region.