Richmond
In 1999, after witnessing the dire needs of children requiring medical care abroad, Dr. Julian Metts, an orthodontist and member of the South Richmond Rotary, envisioned the International Hospital for Children (IHC), laying the groundwork for a global initiative right from Richmond, VA. This vision materialized in 2001 with the foundation of the IHC by the South Richmond Rotary Club, marking the beginning of a significant journey in pediatric healthcare. Richmond became the established home for our first office and has since housed the headquarters of our organization, which evolved into World Pediatric Project, and now known as World Pediatrics. The commitment of our first staff member and eventual first CEO, Susan Rickman, and the support of the Richmond community have been instrumental in our growth and our ability to facilitate critical medical care for children worldwide, starting with the first U.S. referral case at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital. Richmond's generosity and support have been pivotal, enabling us to expand and continue our mission of providing life-saving medical interventions for children in need.
Quarterly Update - Oct 1
Dear Friends,
We are thrilled to begin World Pediatrics’ 25th Anniversary year—a milestone made possible because of you! For 25 years, your generosity, compassion, and belief in our mission have brought healing and hope to thousands of children around the globe.
The next year will be filled with opportunities to celebrate and create even greater impact. Our two signature events will feature special anniversary editions. Rock ’n’ Heal – 25th Anniversary Edition takes off as an electrifying benefit concert hosted by our Junior Board in the Spring of 2026. Treasures in Paradise – 25th Anniversary Edition returns in the Fall of 2026 at Main Street Station for a milestone celebration.
We’ll also debut the Trailblazers’ Tribute, Silver Anniversary Campaign, and Champions for Children Breakfast to honor the bold actions, leadership, and generosity that has shaped our journey. We continue to drive our mission forward with enduring partnerships with Dominion Energy Charity Classic and Bon Air Artists Art Show, while welcoming new partners like Mellow Mushroom.
Together with our dedicated team and volunteer leaders, we’re ready to make this year unforgettable.
Thank you for being an essential part of our story—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
With gratitude,
Alyssa
Richmond Board
Chair
Patrick Duke, Turner & Townsend
Directors
Clayton Allen; Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen (Retired)
Nate Buniva, West Monroe
Jarrod Feinstein, Canal Capital Management
Alexandra Huffman, Walker & Dunlop
Josh Klemmer, Movement Mortgage, LLC
Barry Martin, The Idea Center
Susan Mercado, Scripps Media | CBS 6
Rakesh Parikh, Kaufman & Canoles
Curtis Skolnick, CommonSpirit Health
Sarah Taylor, The Country Club of Virginia
Richmond Junior Board
President
Haley Dotter
Vice President
Leah Hicks
Directors
Hannah Angel
Mikaila Casanovas
Elizabeth Klevana
Alex Konecheck
Tolly Maloney
Victoria Martin
Ellie McLean
Emma Miller
Liza Moore
Kerrigan O’Malley Cocke
Kristina Palangi
Mary Beth Piacentini
Cassie Rawles
Lianne Recchia
Mary-Austin Shockley
Sarah Sneed
Lizzie Trotter
Christie van de Kamp
Taylor Waters
Jennie Wheeler
Alise Witt
Contact
1801 E Cary St, Suite 100
Richmond, VA 23223
(804)282-8830
[email protected]
