Virginia Home for Boys and Girls Renamed Waypoint
The Richmond-area organization officially rebranded on October 1 to reflect its current mission.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Pre-Teens
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The organization formerly known as the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls has officially rebranded as Waypoint. The shift follows over a century of evolution for the Richmond-area facility.
Why it matters
The name change marks a new chapter for the 180-year-old institution that now provides therapeutic, educational, and transitional support for young people. It reflects the nonprofit's expanded role in serving a diverse range of youth beyond its original scope.
The organization operates on a 30-acre campus at 8716 West Broad Street and supports young people ages 11 to 25. Approximately 500 youth age out of the state foster care system annually without a permanent family connection.
The players
Waypoint
Formerly known as the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls, this organization provides residential and therapeutic services to youth.
The details
Founded in 1846 as the Richmond Male Orphan Society, the organization has undergone several name changes as its services evolved, including admitting girls in 2003. Waypoint now delivers specialized education, transitional living, and therapeutic resources to its residents.
Timeline
1846: The organization was founded as the Richmond Male Orphan Society.
1930: The institution was renamed the Richmond Home for Boys.
2003: Girls were admitted into the residential program for the first time.
2004: The facility was renamed the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls.
Oct 1, 2026: Officials announced the rebranding to Waypoint.
Culture Shift
The rebranding to Waypoint reflects a broader movement among long-standing charitable organizations to shed legacy terminology that no longer aligns with modern, inclusive service models. This transition follows a shift seen across the nonprofit sector to emphasize personal growth and outcomes over institutional identity.
The transition to Waypoint does not alter the organization's existing residential or therapeutic services for current residents and their families. Local community members can expect continued operations on the West Broad Street campus.
The takeaway
The name change signals a modernization of the organization's approach to youth development and transitional support. Supporters can continue to access the same range of educational and therapeutic resources previously offered under the legacy name.
Further reading
Learn more about local support services for youth on the Pre-Teens page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Henrico Citizen.
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