Community Impact Projects are the capstone of a #VRLI Cohort Members’ experience and provide tangible impact in rural communities. Thanks REC for being a sponsor and capturing cohort members’ project stories! Stay tuned for the video’s debut at the 2024 Rural Summit!

“Perception is reality.” Warsaw Town Manager Joseph Quesenberry gave #VRLI a tour of downtown to showcase how that mantra has helped jumpstart its revitalization. Warsaw has leveraged grants, partnerships, and a healthy dose of a welcoming mentality to transform the town.

“Patience is important- nothing comes fast.” Thanks Hillary Pugh Kent for joining #VRLI and sharing your passion for #rural VA and how you are working to make changes in VA when necessary but also preserving the region’s agriculture, forestry, and natural resources heritage!

A great evening on the Northern Neck! #VRLI strolled the streets and enjoyed the sights, sounds, and tastes of the region! Next time you’re in Warsaw, be sure to stop by Old Rapp Taphouse and Northern Neck Popcorn! Thanks to our #rural friends for welcoming us!

#VRLI enjoyed breakfast on Day 2 with a side of history at the 1710 Tavern- the oldest tavern in Virginia! Chef Greg Huff shared their history and how they offer a fine dining experience with a menu featuring seasonal dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

#VRLI hit the streets with Jovita Kelly, President of Tappahannock Main Street to see the progress (like the new Central Park), challenges, and next steps for the community! Great to stop in cohort member, Giles Scott’s business- check them out at hotmixva.net!

“The Rappahannock River runs through these veins.” Nate Parker, manager of June Parker Marina and co-owner of Rappahannock Roundstern with deep family ties to the region, joined our friends at Va. Marine Resources to share stories and marine science facts with #VRLI on the Rappahannock River

“When opportunity knocks you have to be ready for them!” Tappahannock Mayor Roy Gladding shared with #VRLI how the community and town leadership have come together to be able to take advantage of new opportunities. It was great to hear what’s next for the town!

#VRLI took a deep dive into rural housing with Chris Thompson with Virginia Housing. Recognizing that rural communities face unique challenges with housing- Chris shared the tools that they have available to help eliminate the affordable housing crisis in VA.

“Embrace where you are, with what you have, and where you are (in time)” A deep, thoughtful conversation with Reverend Dr. Rev. Linwood Blizzard II on the role of faith in rural communities, identifying what we need, and how we connect through authentic relationships to find comfort.

Closing out a busy Day 2 with VCU Health Tappahannock CEO Liz Martin and Rappahannock Community College President Dr. Shannon Kennedy sharing with #VRLI members how rural health partnerships benefit workforce development, health outcomes, and communities as a whole.

Wine, Monster Trucks, Musicians, Hot air balloons, Pumpkins, and more! The #VRLI cohort had a chance to unwind at Wind Vineyard with award winning #VaWines. Thanks to owner Tyler Wind for sharing your passion for #agritourism, and giving an “insiders” look at making wine!

“Take challenges at home and turn them into opportunities.” A big thank you to Delegate Keith Hodges for joining #VRLI and encouraging us to look for ways to find creative solutions and find wins for our #rural communities!

We love our alumni! Thanks for sharing updates on your community impact projects and how you have leveraged #VRLI to boost your network! 2022 Cohort: Shannon Hair, Danville 2023 Cohort: Jessica Drake, Suffolk; Jarrod Elwell, Doswell; Kendra Wood, Aylett; Rhett Weiss, Farmville

#VRLI traveled to @kingwilliamcova to the Sharon Indian School, the only public Indian school building in VA. VRLI learned from Upper Mattaponi Indian Chief Frank Adams the tribe’s history, route to federal recognition, future plans, and were able to peruse maps and artifacts.

Stephanie Heinatz, Founder and Managing Partner of ConsociateMedia emphasized to #VRLI that communicating effectively requires TRUST. She shared the 4 pillars of building trust for effectively communicating: 1. Vulnerability 2. Simplicity 3. Transparency 4. Reliability

“Food is our common ground, a universal experience”-James Beard #VRLI enjoyed the local flavors of the Middle Peninsula! Thanks to Java Jacks for breakfast and the caffeine boost! And, thanks to NN BURGER® for a delicious lunch!

“We’re more powerful when we can all speak as one (voice).” Thanks to Martha Moore with Virginia Farm Bureau for helping #VRLI connect #agriculture to issues in our communities- water quality, animal issues, solar, Ag Econ development, working lands preservation, and broadband.

“Honoring our past, Building our future” A great experience visiting the Upper Mattiponi Tribal Office, gardens, and land. #VRLI learned about the community gardening, indigenous tobacco grown, longhouses, Pows Wows, and many gatherings that take place here!

“We get by with a little help from our (#rural) friends” #VRLI loved exploring the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck by LAND and RIVER! Thanks to our local sponsors! Matthew Lohr REC NN BURGER® 1710 Tavern, Wind Vineyard, Rappahannock Roundstern, June Parker Marina