Blog
RDA Prepares for Annual True North Speaker Series Juneteeth Celebration on June 19
For more information, contact:
Shane Brogden
Director of Promotions and Communications
Email: Shane@riverdistrictassociation.com
River District Association Prepares for Annual True North Speaker Series Juneteenth Celebration on June 19
For Immediate Release
DANVILLE, Va. (June 18, 2026) – The River District Association will host its annual True North Speaker Series Juneteenth Celebration on June 19, honoring Black women's contributions to the community and unveiling the next season of its popular speaker series.
The event, running from 4 to 8:30 p.m. at Thee Arc Family Life Center, recognizes the impact Black women have made in entrepreneurship, economics, health and community development throughout the region's history.
This year’s celebration will feature a vendor marketplace showcasing Black women-owned businesses and artwork, panel discussions with season three speakers from the True North Speaker Series and networking opportunities for guests. Attendees can also look forward to music by DJ Pink-E and a performance of “Freedom Ain’t Free,” a skit written by Mitzi Coles with MGC Productions.
"What started as a way to make sure Black women’s stories had a permanent place in our community’s history has grown into something so much bigger than I imagined," said Lashawn Farmer, director of design and expansion for the River District Association. “Every season, we meet women who are reshaping what leadership looks like in Danville, and Juneteenth is the perfect time to celebrate all of them together.”
The True North Speaker Series airs monthly on the North Main Business District Facebook page, the River District Association YouTube page and airs twice a day on River City TV Comcast Channel 10. The series has spotlighted over 30+ women who lead with excellence across business, civic leadership and community work.
At this year's celebration, the River District Association will announce season four of the True North Speaker Series, themed "Living the Promise," and introduce the 11 women who will be featured throughout the upcoming season.
While this event specifically honors Black women's contributions to our community, it is designed for everyone. Friends and neighbors of all backgrounds are warmly welcomed and encouraged to attend.
"It's an honor to celebrate not only the achievements of these ladies, but their example for all of us and I can't wait for the community to meet the women of season four,” said Farmer.
The River District Association's mission focuses on transforming Danville's River District and North Main Business Corridor as a welcoming place for all while inspiring social and economic development in the Dan River Region.
For more information, contact Lashawn Farmer at lashawn@riverdistrictassociation.com or 434-791-0210.
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Event Details:
Event: True North Speaker Series Juneteenth Celebration
Date: Friday, June 19
Time: 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Thee Arc Family Life Center - 427 E. Thomas St. Danville, VA 24540
River District Association Earns Triple Recognition with Chamber Honors, Statewide Milestone and National Main Street America Accreditation
For more information, contact:
Shane Brogden
Director of Promotions and Communications
Email: Shane@riverdistrictassociation.com
For Immediate Release
River District Association Earns Triple Recognition with Chamber Honors, Statewide Milestone and National Main Street America Accreditation
DANVILLE, Va. (June 17, 2026) - The River District Association (RDA) has collected a string of honors this month, earning recognition at the local, state and national level for its work revitalizing downtown Danville’s River District.
At the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards ceremony on June 11, two RDA leaders took home individual honors. Lashawn Farmer, RDA director of design and expansion, received the WE Lead Award. WE Lead stands for Women’s Empowerment, and the award recognizes women who demonstrate exceptional leadership and community impact. Farmer’s work with the RDA spans placemaking, façade improvement and equitable economic development that centers resident voices. She is also the creator of the True North Speaker Series, which is preparing to enter its fourth season, as well as the annual Juneteenth Celebration, set for this Friday, June 19. The event highlights the speakers from season three of the speaker series and showcases Black female artists and more than 40 Black women-owned vendors.
"I am deeply humbled that someone saw a light in me worth recognizing," said Lashawn Farmer, director of design and expansion for RDA. "My prayer is that the light continues to shine, not on me alone, but on the vision, the work, and the people who make this community so special."
Kunal Patel, vice president of the RDA board of directors, was named as one of the recipients of the 2026 Young Professionals PACE (Professional and Community Engagement) Award. The annual award honors and recognizes emerging leaders under 40 who have made significant contributions to the region through professional achievement and community involvement.
“We are so incredibly proud of both Lashawn and Kunal,” said Tina Leone, executive director of the River District Association. “Lashawn’s vision and dedication to design and expansion and her work through the True North Speaker Series have been transformative for our community. This recognition reflects the meaningful work she does every single day. Kunal brings so much knowledge and thoughtful leadership to our board, and his PACE Award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of everything he gives to the community.
The RDA also received a Milestone Award last week at the 2026 Virginia Main Street Awards, recognizing RDA and its volunteers who collectively surpassed 10,000 hours of service as of Jan. 1, 2026. Those hours represent more than $361,400 in contributed support for downtown revitalization efforts.
Rounding out a banner month for the organization, the RDA has once again earned full Accredited status with Main Street America for 2026 – the program’s highest designation tier.
“Earning full accreditation again is a true honor, and it reflects the energy and heart of everyone who calls the River District home,” said Leone. “Danville’s River District is a place where neighbors gather, businesses thrive and everyone is welcome and this recognition affirms that we’re building something special together for our entire community.
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Celebrate National Small Business Week by Supporting River District Businesses
For more information, contact:
Shane Brogden
Director of Promotions and Communications
Email: Shane@riverdistrictassociation.com
For Immediate Release
Celebrate National Small Business Week by Supporting River District Businesses
DANVILLE, Va (May 4, 2026) – In celebration of National Small Business Week (May 3-9), the River District Association (RDA) is inviting residents and visitors to show their support for the small businesses that make the River District a vibrant and welcoming destination to shop, dine, explore and connect.
Every dollar spent at a locally owned business is a direct investment in our community. The River District is home to a diverse mix of boutiques, restaurants, salons, studios and specialty shops. These businesses are owned and operated by neighbors who are deeply committed to the growth and vitality of our downtown.
“When you choose to spend your time and dollars locally, you’re investing in our community and helping our downtown continue to grow and thrive,” said Tina Leone, executive director of the River District Association.
Simple Ways to Show Your Support This Week
- Shop at a local boutique or specialty store
- Grab coffee, lunch or dinner at a downtown restaurant
- Book a service with a local salon, studio or wellness business
- Share your favorite River District businesses on social media
- Invite a friend or family member to spend the day exploring downtown, the Riverwalk Trail or the new Riverfront Park
2026 has already been an exciting year for the River District, with several new businesses opening their doors and more on the way.
The community is invited to celebrate two upcoming ribbon cutting ceremonies hosted by the River District Association:
· River City Florals (308 Craghead St. Suite 104) – Friday, May 15, at noon
· River District Meat Market (315 Lynn St. Suite B) – Friday, May 22, at noon
All ribbon cutting ceremonies are free and open to the public. Come show your support and help us officially welcome these exciting new businesses to the River District.
Throughout National Small Business Week, the RDA will highlight some of the incredible businesses that call the River District home. Follow along on the RDA social media channels to learn more and plan your visit.
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About River District Association
The River District Association transforms Danville's River District into a welcoming destination that drives economic and social development across the Dan River Region. As an accredited Virginia and National Main Street Community and 2023 GAMSA (Great American Main Street Award) recipient, RDA's innovative, inclusive approach strengthens the regional economy and enhances quality of life for all. Founded in 1999, RDA is a 501(c)(3) organization that is committed to excellence, collaboration and intentional action that benefits the entire community.
Pollinator Garden Tour Restaurant & Shopping Guide
Planning to explore our downtown pollinator gardens during Historic Garden Week? Extend your visit and discover the shops and restaurants of the River District and North Main! Download the Pollinator Garden Tour Restaurant and Shopping Guide for a full list of participating businesses. Many are offering special discounts exclusively for Historic Garden Week ticket holders.
Click to Download the Historic Garden Week Pollinator Garden Restaurant & Shopping Guide
North Main Visionaries Announces New Committee Structure and Leadership
For more information, contact:
Shane Brogden
Director of Promotions and Communications
Email: Shane@riverdistrictassociation.com
For Immediate Release
February 27, 2026
North Main Visionaries Take Collaboration to the Next Level with New Committee Structure and Leadership
DANVILLE, Va. (Feb. 27, 2026) - The North Main Visionaries Collaborative Group is entering a new phase, advancing its work through the creation of focused committees and the appointment of four community leaders as committee chairs. Launched in January 2024 as a community council, the group has evolved in response to increased education, deeper engagement and a shared commitment to shaping the future of the North Main corridor. The shift aligns with the continued expansion of the River District Association and broader revitalization efforts in the North Main District, marking the group’s move from discussion to informed, community-driven action supporting long-term district-wide growth.
As part of this next phase, the Collaborative Group has established four committees aligned with key community priorities:
Health Committee – Chaired by Kitteria Mayo
Kitteria “Kitt” Mayo brings more than 30 years of service rooted in care, connection and community advocacy. Beginning her career in long-term care, she supported patients and families through life’s most vulnerable moments, shaping a people-centered approach to healing and support. She later transitioned into public health, where she has taken on leadership roles focused on awareness, prevention, and community resilience.
Mayo has served as Chair of Walk Teams for the Alzheimer’s Association in Danville, Virginia, and contributes to the West Piedmont Trauma and Resiliency Taskforce, Veterans Suicide Prevention Taskforce, and Allies for Housing Action. Currently employed by The Health Collaborative, she is recognized for connecting individuals and families with meaningful resources that promote stability and hope.
A lifelong resident of Danville, Mayo is a proud mother of two and a dedicated community advocate. She holds certifications in Nonprofit Management and Executive Nonprofit Management from Duke University, as well as Strategic Doing certification from Purdue University, and continues to lead with compassion, purpose, and a deep belief in the power of community.
Education Committee – Chaired by Keisha Averett
Keisha Averett will serve as Committee Chair for Education with North Main Visionaries, bringing a lifelong commitment to education and community-centered leadership. A former PTA President and Booster Club President, Averett currently works as a youth career coach and serves on the Danville School Board, supporting students and families at every stage. Guided by the belief articulated by Marian Wright Edelman that education improves lives and communities, she is honored to advance collaborative, student-focused impact through this role.
Art & Culture Committee – Chaired by Lauren Smith
Lauren Smith brings a creative perspective shaped by her background in fine arts and communications. Originally from San Francisco, she earned a degree in Fine Arts with a minor in communications from East Stroudsburg University. Drawn to Danville by her love of Victorian architecture, Smith has made the community her home, contributing an eye for design, a deep appreciation for culture, and an optimistic vision for the community’s future in Danville.
Economic Growth Committee – Chaired by Takita Walker
Takita Walker is the founder of VENT (Verbally Erase Negative Thoughts) and VENT & Vibe Design Lab, where creativity and healing intersect. Through graphic design, custom apparel, and youth mentorship, she empowers individuals and communities to transform negative thoughts into art, confidence, and purpose. Walker’s work is rooted in mental health awareness, creative expression, and a strong commitment to uplifting the next generation.
These committees are designed to allow for deeper exploration of ideas, stronger partnerships and more focused recommendations to advance long-term redevelopment and neighborhood vitality along North Main.
“The creation of committees marks a major milestone for the North Main Visionaries,” said Lashawn Farmer, director of design and expansion for the River District Association. “This structure reflects the growth of the group and the leadership capacity that has developed through ongoing education and engagement.”
The collaborative group’s work aligns with the North Main Small Area Plan and emphasizes sustainable growth and inclusive community participation. Committee members will meet as needed and report back to the full group, ensuring transparency, shared learning and collective decision-making.
“The North Main Visionaries have become an essential partner in shaping thoughtful, community-informed redevelopment,” said Tina Leone, executive director of the River District Association. “Their work strengthens the connection between residents, stakeholders and long-term district planning, and it plays an important role in advancing inclusive growth along the North Main corridor.”
The North Main Visionaries collaborative group remains committed to fostering mission-aligned redevelopment that honors the history, culture and future potential of the North Main corridor. With expanded leadership and a stronger framework for collaboration, the group is positioned to support meaningful progress in 2026 and beyond.
For more information about the North Main Visionaries Collaborative Group or to learn how to get involved, please contact Lashawn Farmer at 434-791-0210, or email lashawn@riverdistrictassociation.com
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About River District Association
The River District Association transforms Danville's River District into a welcoming destination that drives economic and social development across the Dan River Region. As an accredited Virginia and National Main Street Community and 2023 GAMSA (Great American Main Street Award) recipient, RDA's innovative, inclusive approach strengthens the regional economy and enhances quality of life for all. Founded in 1999, RDA is a 501(c)(3) organization that is committed to excellence, collaboration and intentional action that benefits the entire community.
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