Discover Phoebus’ Vibrant History Through Their Self-Guided 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. Last summer, after finding a … More Discover Phoebus’ Vibrant History Through Their Self-Guided Tour

DAW Theatre: Breathing New Life Into a Historic Gem

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

Virginia Rural Leadership Institute Brings Cohort Members to Southwest Virginia

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

Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofits: Registration Open for Upcoming Workshop Series

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

Grant Opportunity: Virginia 250 Preservation Fund

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

Department of Transportation Grant Opportunity: Enhancing Mobility Innovation

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

In Case You Missed It: July 2024 Digest

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!

The Transformation of 409 Fifth Street in Downtown Lynchburg

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

Fostering Growth: Appreciative Inquiry in Urbanna’s Main Street Startup

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