Good morning, Charlottesville.

Residents say the Central Virginia Violence Interrupters helped make the 700 block of Prospect Ave. safer—by stopping conflicts before they escalated—and many credit the group with turning the neighborhood around.

However, the nonprofit now faces federal and local funding cuts that reduced its staff and support, raising concerns that the safety improvements may not last.

Launched in 2013, the Vibrant Community Fund awards city money to groups that serve local families, youth and public health needs, with organizations like Stepping Stone and Heart & Soul Fitness using grants to support community services.

Applications for the next funding round opened on Sept 19 and close on Oct 20—$2.6 million is available from the city's budget for eligible groups.

The Williams family said little Emma was released from UVA a few days ago and Lilly has been extubated at VCU with doctors optimistic about her recovery—while $130,000 was donated via GoFundMe for the girls—after the Starry Skies Lane fire killed their parents two weeks ago.

Bridge beam repairs were completed after a vehicle struck the Old Ivy Road bridge over the 29 bypass, and the bridge is now open eastbound—construction work continues.

Indigenous Peoples Day honors Native heritage and history—encouraging Charlottesville residents to recognize indigenous contributions and reflect on Native cultures.

The observance prompts discussion about the continuing impact of Native communities in America.

Charlottesville City Schools received a $235k grant from the Virginia Department of Education on Monday to fund a plan over the next year that builds a Community School Model to bring schools, families + community partners together.

The University of Virginia ranked 2nd in Virginia, 8th among public colleges nationwide and 50th overall on WalletHub’s 2026 Best Colleges and Universities ranking — a study that compared nearly 800 schools using measures such as student selectivity, cost and career outcomes — finishing behind Washington and Lee in the state.

Charlottesville’s energy-saving trees program returns this fall as residents can pick up one free tree per household on October 24 and 25.

Trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the utilities building on 305 4th Street North-West from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.—peak pickup is between 5 and 5:30 p.m.

UVA Health will begin a monthly mobile care service next week at the Greene County Senior Center at 222 Main St in Stanardsville—providing non-emergency primary care and initial consultations for residents who may not have a regular provider.

The unit will also visit Fifeville, Southwood and Yancey School Community Center in Esmont, and it will expand services to Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall in March.

At Charlottesville’s Pūrvelo cycling studio, instructors design themed spin classes that use carefully chosen playlists from house music to musical theater to match different workout segments.

They select songs that match the pace and energy of the ride — creating a positive, interactive experience for riders of all levels.

Third-year Commerce student Aaryan Saxena began refereeing at age 13 and now serves as an Intramural Sports Supervisor at U.Va., where he trains over 80 student hires and officiates local intramural and Division I games — his role also includes international experience from officiating in Europe and elsewhere.

Virginia's first-year coach Ryan Odom said during the preseason media day that the ACC was tougher than last season and noted teams like Louisville and Duke as top contenders.

He submitted his ballot naming Darrion Williams for player of the year and Cameron Boozer for rookie of the year — his picks hint at a hard fight for NCAA Tournament spots.

Virginia Swim and Dive opened their season in Gainesville as the women won 224 to 127 and the men lost 191.5 to 159.5, while the men's soccer team tied Notre Dame 1 to 1, the No. 1 women's team tied Cal 2 to 2 before falling to Stanford, and the field hockey team lost 1 to 0 to UNC in a grudge match—upcoming contests include a home opener for swim and dive next Friday, a Tuesday soccer match against UNCG, and two volleyball games against Virginia Tech later this week.

Virginia baseball released its 2026 schedule today under new Head Coach Chris Pollard — the team will host 31 home games at Disharoon Park and face ACC rivals including Virginia Tech, Wake Forest, Florida State, Clemson, and Cal while opening ACC play at North Carolina from March 6 to 8 and playing road series against Boston College, Notre Dame, Pitt, and Louisville.

DreamFlight Aerial Fitness Classes

7:15-8:30 p.m. — The Seminar Center — $20 for Aerial Yoga, $18 for Aerial Fitness — Re-align your body and spirit with gravity in this certified AntiGravity® Fitness Studio.

Love Heals Benefit Show

7-8:30 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — 100% of ticket sales for medical bills — Experience an uplifting concert that supports local medical needs.

YAR 2025: Young Alumni Celebration

8-11 p.m. — Ting Pavilion — Cost not listed — Celebrate young alumni with food, drinks, and music during Homecomings Weekend.

Matisyahu Live Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Tickets starting at $53 — Experience Matisyahu's captivating performance in a historic venue.

Berto and Vincent - Wild Gypsy Rumba

7-11 p.m. — The Bebedero — Cost Info not provided — Experience the electrifying blend of Gypsy Rumba guitars with Latin and Cuban flair.

YMCA Gatorade Halloween Hustle 10K Run & 2 Mile Family Walk

Sign up to run, walk, or volunteer at the YMCA Gatorade Halloween Hustle 10K & 2 Mile Family Walk on Oct. 25, featuring festive costumes, family fun, and a post-race party with bounce houses and contests! Proceeds go toward YMCA financial assistance, to ensure no one is turned away for inability to pay.

YMCA Gatorade Halloween Hustle 10K Run & 2 Mile Family Walk

Sign up to run, walk, or volunteer at the YMCA Gatorade Halloween Hustle 10K & 2 Mile Family Walk on Oct. 25, featuring festive costumes, family fun, and a post-race party with bounce houses and contests! Proceeds go toward YMCA financial assistance, to ensure no one is turned away for inability to pay.

JackFest 2025

12-4 p.m. — Foxfield Racing LLC — Donations appreciated — A family-friendly festival featuring races, kid activities, food trucks, and local beverages to support families facing childhood illnesses.

Víkingur Ólafsson Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Paramount Theater — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the captivating music of Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson, a prominent figure in the classical scene.

Indigo De Souza Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket info not specified — Experience the artistic journey of Indigo De Souza as she showcases her stunning third album.

Cars & Coffee Charlottesville

8-10 a.m. — Barracks Road Shopping Center — Free entry — Enjoy a diverse showcase of eclectic cars come rain or shine.