First things first, you need a way to start collecting your compost scraps. They can be collected in your kitchen in any stainless steel container or similar contraption that will block out some of the odors.
Next, you’ll need a place to take your compost scraps. Drop-off locations and curbside contracted services are available in Charlottesville. If you'd like to compost in your backyard, you'll need an outdoor compost bin - a structure used to house and make compost until it can be used in the garden. Most are designed to hasten the decomposition of organic matter through proper aeration and moisture retention.
In your outdoor bin, you’ll need to make sure to mix your compost in layers of greens and browns, a typical ratio of 1:3. For more information on getting started, check out this article by NPR, or the City's Backyard Composting webpage.