Guests enjoy the recent Public Living Room event sponsored by the YMCA at Vir-ginia Tech and the New River Valley Time Bank.
BLACKSBURG – The YMCA at Virginia Tech and the New River Valley Time Bank recently came together to host a Public Living Room—a community-centered event rooted in the values of connection, kindness, and mutual support.
The gathering also marked a special occasion: the 10-year anniversary of Camerados, the grassroots UK-based movement that inspired the event.
Approximately 20 community members stopped by the YMCA to enjoy conversation, cupcakes, laughter, and a welcoming space designed to encourage authentic human connection. Participants shared stories, played board games, and relaxed with homemade treats and good company—an experience that felt both refreshing and restorative.
Camerados believes “the answer to our problems is each other,” and Public Living Rooms embody this spirit by offering a judgment-free, no-pressure space where people can simply be. There is no agenda, no speakers, and no expectation—just a living room-style setting with cozy seating, and people willing to show up for one another.
Lisa Garcia with the NRV Time Bank shared, “After 10 Public Living Room gatherings, I’ve seen just how much people need spaces like this. We’ve built a little traveling community—regulars who show up and welcome new folks with open arms. Every time, I leave feeling more hopeful and prouder of the people who live here.”
YMCA Director of Community Engagement, Laureen Blakemore added: “It was beautiful to see people who had never met before laughing, sharing, and making real connections. These kinds of spaces remind us that we’re not alone—and that community can be as simple as sitting down for a chat.”
The event also honored a decade of the Camerados movement, which began in the UK in 2015 with the simple idea that everyone needs a camerado—someone who’s got your back. In those ten years, the movement has sparked the creation of dozens of Public Living Rooms around the world.
“We’re thrilled to be part of this global celebration,” said an attendee at the living room event. “It’s incredible to think that something as simple as a sofa and a chat can bring people together across countries and cultures.”
The YMCA at Virginia Tech and the New River Valley Time Bank look forward to cohosting another Public Living Room at the Y during Welcoming Week in September. Meanwhile the NRV Time Bank will be hosting regular Public Living Rooms at various locations throughout the year so don’t miss out on this community building experience.
For more information about the Camerados movement or how to set up a Public Living Room in your area, visit www.camerados.org.
YMCA at Virginia Tech
