Elevate Your Impact: VCDC Mission Elevation Program

The Virginia Community Development Corporation (VCDC) is helping nonprofit organizations and community-focused groups across Virginia elevate their impact through the Mission Elevation Program. This program provides local organizations with the tools, support, and guidance they need to tackle challenges and drive long-term growth—especially for Main Street communities looking to revitalize their downtown areas.

What is the Mission Elevation Program?

The Mission Elevation Program is designed to strengthen organizations with a mission to improve their communities. Whether you’re part of a nonprofit or quasi-government group, the program offers key benefits:

Building capacity by improving internal operations and leadership.
Strategic planning to set actionable, long-term goals.
Increased funding through better fundraising and grant strategies.
Personalized coaching to address unique challenges.
A peer support network to share ideas and insights.

For organizations focused on downtown revitalization or historic preservation, the program helps them overcome common obstacles, like limited resources or stagnant growth.

How the Program Helps Main Street Communities

Take Harrisonburg, Virginia for example. A decade ago, its downtown was filled with empty storefronts and economic decline. But since the launch of Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance (HDR) in 2003 and its collaboration with the local government, the area has transformed into a vibrant hub with bustling restaurants, art galleries, and shops.

A big part of HDR’s success came from partnering with the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Main Street America program and the Virginia Main Street coordinating program and then working with local developers to add housing, increasing residential options by 290%.

In 2019, HDR joined the Mission Elevation Program. Executive Director Andrea Dono credits the 14-month program with helping them refine their strategy and improve messaging. “I feel calmer in how I approach big issues,” says Andrea.

How to Apply

The Mission Elevation Program is a powerful resource for any group working to revitalize Main Street communities. With its focus on long-term strategic planning, enhanced fundraising capabilities, and operational improvements, it provides the support needed to ensure your community’s success.

Applications are now open for Cohort 7! The next cohort begins in early 2025, and nonprofits across Virginia and neighboring areas are encouraged to apply. The application final deadline is on December 15, 2024.

Click here to learn more or apply! For questions, reach out to Raven Bates at raven@vcdc.org or call 804-482-6232. You can also check out the Mission Elevation FAQ page for more information.