VPM News presents: Finding Joy

What do rats, heavy metal, athletics and community service have in common? They're just a few of the things brightening people's lives across Central Virginia.

Joy is a valuable resource, especially in a time when what's going on around the world can offer more concern than relief. The VPM News team has spent the summer exploring the people, places and activities that bring joy in our corner of the commonwealth.

We've found serenity in gardening and learned the ins and outs of wedding planning. We've explored the power of finding home and togetherness in an adopted country. We've climbed the top rope at a local wrestling show. We may have even banged our heads with Richmond's favorite Scumdogs.

Now, as the summer comes to a close, we're here to share all of that joy with you.

Reporting and videography by Shaban Athuman, Hannah Davis-Reid, Lyndon German, Patrick Larsen, Phil Liles, Cate MacKenzie, Keyris Manzanares, Adrienne Hoar McGibbon, Dean Mirshahi, Meghin Moore, Megan Pauly, Billy Shields and Chris Suarez.

Editing by Whittney Evans, Dawnthea M. Price Lisco, Adrienne Hoar McGibbon, Sean McGoey, Meghin Moore and Elliott Robinson.

Photography by Shaban Athuman.

Video production by Adam Hamza and Adrienne Hoar McGibbon.