History
Virginia Statewide Neighborhood Conference:
Overview and History
“While each neighborhood is unique, all face similar issues. From the basics of organizing and conducting meetings to finding resources for needed projects, everyone needs to have the skills to make a difference.”
--Estelle H. McCadden, Founder, VSNC, Inc.
In 2000, Ms. Estelle H. McCadden, a Roanoke, Virginia neighborhood activist and President of her neighborhood’s organization, the Melrose-Rugby Neighborhood Forum, Inc. became inspired to organize and create Virginia’s Statewide Neighborhood Conference. At the time, Ms. McCadden was also serving on the Board of Directors of Neighborhoods USA (NUSA), a national organization dedicated to developing partnerships between neighborhoods, local government, and public/private agencies across the United States.
Ms. McCadden, with the assistance of Selena Cuffee-Glenn, Deputy Director, Dept. of Community Development in Richmond, Virginia, initially brought together neighborhood leaders and professional staff from the cities of Norfolk, Richmond, Hampton, Roanoke, and James City County forming the first statewide conference planning committee that would create the first Virginia Statewide Neighborhood Conference held in Richmond, VA. Little did they know their conference would become an annual event.
We welcome your participation in the 23rd annual Virginia Statewide Neighborhood Conference. This year the conference will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 in Danville, Virginia with the conference theme, "People Power: Building Neighborhoods That Work for Everyone. Once again, attendees will have an opportunity to participate in information-packed workshops, listen to thought provoking speakers, view a host of exhibitions, and engage in unparalleled networking opportunities with neighborhood advocates from across Virginia. In addition, a concurrent conference designed specifically for young people between the ages of 13-18 called the Youth Café will also be offered to help participating youth learn how to facilitate constructive changes in their lives, create opportunities for themselves and friends, and become contributing members within their own respective communities.Finally, as with past conferences, this year's conference will conclude with our Virginia Statewide Neighboirhood Awards Recognotion Progrram that recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding neighborhood associations, organizations, civic individuals, and youth groups from across the Commonwealth of Virginia who have worked diligently to enhance the quality of life in their communities.
As we embark upon another annual conference, please join us as we work together in realizing that the future of Virginia lies in the success of our neighborhoods…..and in the faith of those who work to strengthen them!
