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. Named after its original owners—E.M. Doar, H.S. Atkinson, and R.B. Wallace—the theater was once a cultural hub, drawing crowds from across Tidewater with its 500-seat Art Deco style and hosting everything … More DAW Theatre: Breathing New Life Into a Historic Gem
As a participant in the Virginia Rural Leadership Institute’s (VRLI) 2024 Cohort, Zachary Whitlow, Community Vitality Program Administrator for the Department of Housing and Community Development, provides an overview of the second VRLI session of the year, which was held in Abingdon, Bristol and Marion on July 17-19, 2024. The Virginia Rural Leadership Institute’s (VRLI) second session … More Virginia Rural Leadership Institute Brings Cohort Members to Southwest Virginia
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 … More Culpeper Unveils Power Box Murals
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. Artificial Intelligence … More Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofits: Registration Open for Upcoming Workshop Series
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 … More Grant Opportunity: Virginia 250 Preservation Fund
Discover the Who / What / When / Where / Why of a Grant Opportunity! U.S. Department of Transportation: Federal Transit Administration | Enhancing Mobility Innovation 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 … More Department of Transportation Grant Opportunity: Enhancing Mobility Innovation
During the month of July, the Virginia Main Street (VMS) team published eight blog posts, highlighting the latest community-vitality news, events and more! Here’s a recap: 2024 VMS Merit Awards Appreciative Inquiry in Urbanna’s Main Street Startup Transforming Lynchburg’s Fifth Street District Stay tuned for lots more great content in August!
Lynchburg‘s Fifth Street District was once the center of commerce for the city’s African-American community. In 2012, it formally became a National Historic District, undoubtedly worthy of preservation. Contributing to that designation, the building at 409 Fifth Street was originally constructed in 1936 to house the Moser Furniture Company and featured a charming colonial-style building … More The Transformation of 409 Fifth Street in Downtown Lynchburg
If you go looking for problems, that’s what you’re going to see. But, what if you had tools to help you amplify what is going right in your organization, at any stage of development? I (Kyle Meyer) have the pleasure of working with the Town of Urbanna, which is currently a Virginia Main Street (VMS) … More Fostering Growth: Appreciative Inquiry in Urbanna’s Main Street Startup
The Virginia Main Street (VMS) program’s Promotional Innovation merit award highlights an innovative and successful district-wide special event or initiative designed to build a positive community identity and spirit or a district-wide marketing campaign designed to attract customers and increase revenue for local businesses. The 2024 award went to the City of Roanoke’s Department of Economic Development … More 2024 Promotional Innovation Merit Award Winner – Roanoke!
Virginia Main Street 