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.