YMCA OF GREATER RICHMOND PRESENTS THE 2025 SYMPOSIUM ON SEPTEMBER 26
It takes all of us. For a Better Us
Advance Community Through Participation
The 2025 Symposium theme is Rising Together: Stories of Economic Mobility and Thriving Communities. We aim to highlight the RVA Rising regional initiative for upward economic mobility, guided by the Urban Institute’s framework. Throughout the event, we will ground our discussions in Richmond’s history of slavery—acknowledging how its legacy continues to shape the economic disparities present today.
Volunteers Help Bring Richmond Together
Behind every impactful event is a team of passionate leaders. We’re proud to have a planning committee of 30 dedicated community leaders guiding this year’s Symposium. Their commitment and vision are driving real change—and advancing our community every step of the way. We couldn’t do this without them! Contact us for information for future volunteer planning opportunities.
Support The Advancing Of Community
Last year’s Community Conversations brought together 330 community leaders, fostering dialogue, connection and action. With a satisfaction rating of 4.5/5, these conversations reinforced our shared commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in our community. This year, we invite you to partner with us by sponsoring this transformative event and join us in advancing community.
Master of Ceremonies
Eric Philips joined the anchor team at WRIC ABC 8News in August 2021. He brings more than two decades of journalism experience and a passion for fair and accurate reporting to the newsroom. Prior to joining the team at 8News, Eric was a National Security Correspondent and White House Correspondent for the Christian Broadcasting Network in Washington, D.C. He previously worked for CNN and broadcast stations in Atlanta, Charlotte, Norfolk and Salisbury, Maryland. Television viewers in Central Virginia will remember Eric from his time at WWBT Channel 12 where he was an anchor and reporter. He is a graduate of Hampton University where he earned a BA in Mass Media Arts with an emphasis in Broadcasting. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and the Brothers of 1-5-1, Inc., a music fraternity where Eric showcases his vocal talents. While anchoring at WWBT Channel 12, Eric won an Emmy for the best morning show. He’s also been honored with an Associated Press award for breaking news coverage, a National Association of Black Journalists award for feature reporting and a commendation from the Federal Bureau of Investigation for “Fugitive Files,” a series that aided in the capture of wanted criminals. Eric lives in Henrico County with his wife and two children. In addition to singing, he likes to bowl, read, listen to podcasts and spend time with family and friends.
Meet Our Speakers and Facilitators
In Collaboration with RVA Rising
Who is RVA Rising?
What if everyone in our region - regardless of race, ethnicity, or zip code - had a real shot at upward economic mobility? RVA Rising is making that vision reality through a bold, long-term movement that brings together businesses, nonprofits, philanthropy, local government, and community members in unprecedented collaboration. This isn't just another initiative - it's about fundamentally reshaping how we work together so that everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive here. RVA Rising provides the tools and infrastructure for individuals and organizations to activate their unique strengths and join this collective effort. Learn more at rvarising.org.
Agenda Highlights
- Welcome & Opening Remarks - YMCA of Greater Richmond
- Why We're Here: Purpose, Power and Possibility - Jody Alexander, YMCA of Greater Richmond
- RVA Rising: Advancing Economic Opportunity for all - RVA Rising
- Fireside Chat: Richmond's Past, Present, and Future - Ted Elmore, BridgePark RVA; Dr. Julian Hayter, University of Richmond
- Past Meets Present: Rediscovering Richmond Through Virtual Reality - Dean Browell and Dontrese Brown, Hidden in Plain Site
- Fostering Belonging: Building Connection Through Shared Stories - James Warren,Share More Stories; Sidney Edwards, YMCA of Greater Richmond
- Community Connection and Celebration - Laurel Street Block Party
Our Sponsorship Opportunities
Thank You To Our Sponsors
