Our History
A Collective Source Where Healing Meets Transformation
Our story began in 2015 with BareSOUL Yoga & Wellness, a response to the lack of representation and access within the wellness space, particularly for historically underserved populations. What started as a small studio has grown into a community-centered movement, dedicated to healing historical, generational, and racial trauma through practices of restoration and connection.
Since our founding, The Well Collective has touched the lives of more than 5,400 community members each year across Central Virginia. We’ve:
Built spaces where individuals from diverse backgrounds can connect, learn, and grow together
Delivered mindfulness education programs and camps to 1,800 Richmond youth
Empowered over 150 community leaders, educators, small business owners, mental health professionals, and wellness providers
Celebrated 300 graduates of our leadership development programs
Brought more than 1,100 residents together through community-driven historical and cultural conversations that strengthen understanding and belonging
OUR VALUES
HEALING
JUSTICE
Ensuring accessibility and equity in wellness resources and economic opportunities
Embracing practices that restore well-being for both individuals and communities
CULTURE & COMMUNITY
EDUCATION
Providing transformative learning that empowers individuals, organizations, and communities
Fostering connection and belonging through culture building and shared experiences
HUMANITY
Honoring the dignity and potential of every person
FOUNDING BELIEF
Sustainable Change Requires Collaborative Efforts Rooted in Justice and Equity
Our journey began with the establishment of BareSOUL Yoga & Wellness in October 2015, as a response to the health disparities and underrepresentation of the Black community within holistic health and wellness.
Over the years, we evolved from a small wellness studio into a community-driven force, centered around restorative practices and healing from historical, generational, and racial trauma.
The Meaning Behind Our Symbol
Inspired by WOFORO DUA PA A, a powerful Adinkra symbol meaning “when you climb a good tree,” we embrace the truth that good work always deserves support. This symbol embodies cooperation, encouragement, and collective responsibility.
At The Well Collective, this teaching guides us. When we work together for justice, healing, and well-being, the community rises to support us—and we rise to support the community.
Our Vision and Goal
The Well Collective envisions a world where holistic well-being is a universal right. Our mission is to transform shared well-being by creating opportunities for people to flourish, individually and collectively.
Through healing-centered education, restorative leadership development, and social engagement, we convene with a coalition of mission-aligned strategic partners to enhance our collective impact. We believe true transformation requires collaboration. That’s why we invite leaders, organizers, and neighbors alike to join us in building systems rooted in justice, equity, and collective care.
Meet the Team
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Ashley Williams
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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Vanessa Cowles
DIRECTOR,
CULTURE & COMMUNITY -
Kiran Bhagat
DIRECTOR,
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & OPERATION
Board of Directors
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Marilyn Milio
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Margo Buchanan
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Dontrese Brown
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Erin Provencher
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Tammy Jackson
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Kelli Lemon
The Well: A Space for Healing and Growth
Our headquarters is more than a building—it is a well: a gathering place for replenishment, learning, and connection. Here, local leaders, artists, justice advocates, and community members come together to share resources, exchange ideas, and foster healing.
It is a space of possibility, where radical imagination and restorative practices meet. A space where belonging is nurtured, equity is practiced, and the collective thrives.