Bellemeade Park is far from your average outdoor public space. So, what makes it so special? People at the park would say the story begins with Mr. Bob.

Bob Argabright, a former Chesapeake Packaging Corp. executive, has made Bellemeade Park his calling since retirement a number of years ago. Eight acres of once-overgrown city property in the heart of Southside, the new park is next to Oak Grove-Bellemeade Elementary School, serving a disadvantaged population. The park provides a connection with nature that is otherwise unavailable to neighborhood children and adults. It hosts a bluebird trail, butterfly garden, rain garden, and acres of natural delights.

Joining Bob is Carolyn Schuyler, Visiting Scholar at UVA and founder of the Wildrock nature center in Crozet. She will provide research on the proven mental and physical benefits of connecting with nature, especially among today's urban and suburban children.

Together, they are bringing programs focused on creating joyous experiences for children and youth that promote learning and building skills in a beautiful and safe outdoor environment.