Building Capacity: How Toano Historical Society is Revitalizing Through Human Capital Development

In the heart of the unincorporated town of Toano, on the western edge of James City County, lies a small nonprofit with a big vision: the Toano Historical Society (THS). Founded in 2018, THS seeks to inspire community spirit, promote local history, and preserve the small-town character of the Toano Commercial Historic District—a collection of … More Building Capacity: How Toano Historical Society is Revitalizing Through Human Capital Development

The Walker Program Releases Small Town Economic Revitalization and Racial Justice Guide

In spring 2021, The Walker Program released its Small Town Economic Revitalization and Racial Justice Guide, which provides a step-by-step framework to address racial inequity through the economic sector in the cities of Lexington and Buena Vista, Rockbridge County and similarly sized communities. Created by a Washington and Lee University student, Courtney Berry, in partnership … More The Walker Program Releases Small Town Economic Revitalization and Racial Justice Guide

Be Positive: Dealing Disaster Part 2 of 2

While earthquakes and tornadoes are rare in most of the commonwealth, hurricane season is a regular fixture on our calendars in Virginia. The season typically runs from June to November with heightened activity August to October. This is the second of a blog series centered on Danville, Virginia’s experience recovering from Hurricane Michael in 2018 … More Be Positive: Dealing Disaster Part 2 of 2

Be Prepared: Dealing with Disaster Part 1 of 2

While earthquakes and tornadoes are rare in most of the commonwealth, hurricane season is a regular fixture on our calendars in Virginia. The season typically runs from June to November with heightened activity August to October. In October 2018, Hurricane Michael raised to the Dan River to flood stage, causing damaged roads and buildings, and even … More Be Prepared: Dealing with Disaster Part 1 of 2

Life of a Virginia Main Street Manager

Recently, Main Street America’s #MainSpotlight featured a great article about the Main Street executive director experience from one of Virginia’s own, Todd Wolford of Downtown Wytheville Inc.  It cover’s Todd’s three-year experience achieving confidence and effectiveness in his role.  One of Virginia’s new directors said, “He’s like a Main Street director’s medium”. He practically read … More Life of a Virginia Main Street Manager