Virginia Main Street Kicks Off 40th Anniversary Year with Annual Directors Retreat and Celebration!

February 2025 was a milestone month for the Virginia Main Street (VMS) program! It kicked off with the annual Advancing Virginia Main Street (AVMS) Directors Retreat, held in Richmond and Ashland and co-hosted by the Downtown Ashland Association. This gathering brought together Main Street directors from across the state for three exciting days of learning and networking while commemorating four decades of impact on Virginia’s downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts.

Empowering Main Street Leaders

The theme for the 2025 AVMS Directors Retreat centered on demonstrating impact and results, equipping local Main Street programs with the knowledge and tools to effectively advocate for their programs and communities. Throughout the retreat, attendees participated in sessions focused on storytelling, media relations and advocacy strategies. Notable presentations from Letterpress Communications and the Retail Alliance provided key insights into how Main Street organizations can amplify their voices and strengthen relationships with the media, stakeholders, and policymakers.

Exploring the “Center of the Universe”

A special highlight of this year’s retreat was spending the day in downtown Ashland, also known as the “Center of the Universe.” Directors had the chance to explore the downtown district through a scavenger hunt. The day also featured an insightful panel discussion where downtown / community leaders shared their successes, challenges and future strategies for maintaining a thriving Main Street district.

A Celebration 40 Years in the Making

We also got to celebrate at the VMS 40th Anniversary Reception, held inside the historic Main Street Station in Richmond. Governor Youngkin honored the legacy and impact of the VMS program, while Erin Barnes, President and CEO of Main Street America, delivered a keynote address. Past and present Main Street leaders and supporters gathered to celebrate the remarkable impact of Virginia’s Main Street communities.