The February meeting saw what was likely the LARGEST turnout in GRAVA history with almost 65 people in attendance. The meeting was held in the new Community Foundation space in Scott’s Addition and used every single chair available.To begin the event Vanessa Diamond, Senior Vice President of Community Innovation at the Community Foundation, walked us through the evolution of HandsOn and development of the new Community Innovation department. In addition to going over what is currently available to volunteer administrators in the area Vanessa discussed the future of the website and tools that will be offered. See this Community Foundation Learning Flyer
for information on classes including the Volunteer Management Training Series.
After Vanessa’s overview Ellen Costlow, Community 
Engagement Coordinator – Youth Services with Chesterfield County, facilitated roundtable discussions on volunteer appreciation. Members shared what they have done to recognize volunteers throughout the year and 
during National Volunteer Week. Ellen also introduced “7 Questions to Answer Before Planning Your NVW Campaign” which participants talked through at their tables.
Engagement Coordinator – Youth Services with Chesterfield County, facilitated roundtable discussions on volunteer appreciation. Members shared what they have done to recognize volunteers throughout the year and 
during National Volunteer Week. Ellen also introduced “7 Questions to Answer Before Planning Your NVW Campaign” which participants talked through at their tables.When the group came back together people offered recognition suggestions as well as ideas and reminders about the importance of appreciating our volunteers year-round. The group also discussed staff appreciation and engagement as well as the opportunity to anonymously survey volunteers about their experiences and even how they’d like to be appreciated.
To wrap up the meeting members took a group photo like PROS. We look forward to another amazing turnout at Maymont on March 7th!
Collective Impact recognizes the connection between different areas of life and understands that a multi-sectoral approach with shared leadership between community members and service providers is needed to address the larger underlying context that lays the foundation for thriving communities and neighbors. Through utilizing the Collective Impact model, resident voices are utilized in decision making, organizations are better able to collaborate, and resources are more effectively utilized. Join us for a panel discussion on Collective Impact initiatives in the Richmond Area.
