During the month of August, the Virginia Main Street (VMS) team published seven blog posts, highlighting the latest community-vitality news, events and more! Here’s a recap:
Grant Opportunities
- The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is excited to present a monthly grants opportunity brief that could be a game-changer for your growing Communities! This brief is designed to empower and uplift Communities throughout the Commonwealth, equipping them with the necessary resources to thrive. For the month of August, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Enhancing Mobility Innovation program was highlighted. Click here to learn more!
- The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) has a new grant opportunity that is open to localities, 501(c)(3) non-profits, and federally or state recognized tribes. The Virginia 250 Preservation Fund is meant to help celebrate and prepare for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and has $20 million worth of grant funding available. Projects do not have to be Revolution related to be eligible. Click here to learn more!
Training / Education
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the landscape across various sectors, including the nonprofit world. As your local Main Street program strives to do more with limited resources, AI offers solutions that can help streamline operations, enhance communication, and improve overall efficiency so there is more room to focus on real community impact. To help the network harness the power of AI, VMS is hosting a series of Regional Rev-Up workshops this September to demystify AI and give practical guidance on integrating these technologies into everyday operations. Click here to learn more!
- The Virginia Rural Leadership Institute’s (VRLI) second session of the year was set against the backdrop of Southwest Virginia’s (SWVA) rich cultural and economic landscape. Over the course of three highly engaging and educational days, cohort members observed the collaborative spirit of the region and saw firsthand how local leaders and regional changemakers are significantly enhancing the local economy and quality of life for all. Southwest Virginia was an ideal setting that offered cohort members valuable lessons and inspiration, further honing their leadership, community, and economic development skills. Click here to learn more!
Creating a Self-Guided District Tour
- The Phoebus Partnership fosters continued exploration of their historic district through the Phoebus Historic District Self-Guided Tour. The virtual, self-guided tour features information about all contributing structures within the City of Hampton’s 86-acre historic district—including detailed descriptions of architectural styles, historic events, and previous business occupants, along with community-sourced photos. Click here to learn more!
Bringing a 1930s-era Theatre Back to Life
- Located in the heart of Tappahannock’s historic district, the DAW Theatre has a rich history dating back to its grand opening in February 1939. Though nearly destroyed by fire in 1949, the DAW was swiftly restored and reopened within three months. After another major renovation in 1982, the theater continued to serve the community until it finally closed in the late 1990s. To kickstart the DAW’s revival, Historic Downtown Tappahannock (HDT) and the DAW Theater Foundation applied for a VMS Financial Feasibility Grant (FFG) to explore the best path forward. Click here to learn more!
Power Box Murals
- Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. (CRI) proudly unveiled five new murals in downtown through their Art in Public Spaces Power Box Mural Program. Featuring the unique work of local artists, the murals beautify utility boxes and create a more inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors. The murals reflect the regions natural beauty and local heritage – depicting local vistas, wildlife, and points of interest. Click here to learn more!
Stay tuned for lots more great content in September!
Virginia Main Street 