REGISTRATION CLOSING SOON

Don’t wait—the training begins on Tuesday, September 23 and space is limited! Sign up by Monday, September 16 to secure your spot!

Session 1: Setting the Foundation: Mission, Vision, and the Nonprofit Sector

Session 2: Building Strong Foundations: Nonprofit Governance & Board Development

Session 3: Money Matters: Fundraising, Grant Readiness, and Financial Management

Session 4: People Power: Leading Teams & Managing with Purpose

Session 5: Telling Your Story: Nonprofit Marketing & Community Engagement

Session 6: From Insight to Action: Sustaining Impact Beyond the Series

Facilitators: Rachel del Campo Gatewood & Hollie Adams, River District Consulting | Evelyn Riley, Dan River Nonprofit Network
The series concludes with a practical session on applying lessons learned, ensuring that your organization is prepared to sustain momentum and maximize long-term impact. We will also pause to celebrate your dedication to strengthening your impact and improving your nonprofit management and leadership skills through completion of this program.

Secure Your Spot Today

This six-session training series is designed to strengthen nonprofit leaders and organizations across Southern Virginia. Don’t miss your chance to learn directly from these incredible facilitators.

Registration closes September 16. Training begins September 23.

Want to be the first to know when this program is offered again? Join our newsletter >

Throughout the week, seven local educators – including middle school and high school teachers and school counselors – participated in engaging sessions led by local leaders and industry professionals. Program participants learned about the daily activities that drive Halifax County’s economy through the lenses of the Halifax County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Halifax, the Halifax County Industrial Development Authority (IDA), and the Halifax County Administrator’s office. Additional learning opportunities for the program participants were made available through industry tours with Halifax County employers. The curriculum was tailored to highlight regional opportunities and support the educators in inspiring their students to consider innovative careers in Halifax County.

Educator Perspectives on EXCITE Halifax

“EXCITE really allowed us as educators to see firsthand what STEM jobs are available in our rural community,” said Rosa Dunn, Connections Coordinator, Explore The Trades.  “We saw potential job fields for our students that we had no idea about beforehand that are directly related to STEM education. It is important that we start exposing our students to these opportunities early on so they can see the potential that is in their own backyards.”

“EXCITE week was an impactful step forward in strengthening the connection between education and industry,” said Melanie Hastings, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director, Halifax County Public Schools.  “Educators stepped outside the classroom to engage with local experts and see firsthand how the skills they teach translate directly to the workforce.  I look forward to continuing this collaboration, raising awareness about career opportunities for our students right here at home.”

“Seeing these technologies and career opportunities in action within our own region made a lasting impression,” said Julia Salley, GO TEC Instructor, Halifax County Middle School. “It reaffirmed the importance of what I’m teaching and gave me powerful, real-world examples to share with my students. I can now better show them how the skills they’re learning translate into meaningful careers right here in Halifax County.”

Industry Perspectives on EXCITE Halifax

“As AI becomes more integrated into our economy, it is crucial to prepare workers across industries with the skills needed to succeed,” said Jeremy Satterfield, TechSpark Manager, Microsoft. “EXCITE Halifax expands training opportunities across Halifax County, helping students fill in demand jobs and compete in the local economy.”

Planning for EXCITE Summer 2026

The SOVA Innovation Hub, a nonprofit dedicated to economic transformation through innovation and entrepreneurship, is proud to bring IALR’s EXCITE program to Halifax County, thanks to financial and programmatic support from Microsoft’s TechSpark initiative. The EXCITE program is part of a broader effort to expand access to STEM career exploration across Southern Virginia.

Following this year’s pilot of EXCITE Halifax, partners plan to offer EXCITE again in summer 2026 in Halifax and are actively exploring opportunities to bring the program to additional localities—such as Charlotte, Mecklenburg, Brunswick, and Lunenburg counties. Local leaders, educators, and employers interested in supporting or hosting future EXCITE programs are invited to complete the EXCITE Interest Form >.

Want to be the first to know when this program is offered again? Join our newsletter >

A new initiative launching this August aims to empower nonprofit leaders across Southern Virginia. The EVOLVE Nonprofit Program—short for Empowering Visionaries, Optimizing Leadership, and Valuing Excellence—offers nonprofit professionals the opportunity to build leadership skills, connect with peers, and strengthen their organizations.

Developed by the SOVA Innovation Hub in partnership with the Dan River Nonprofit Network and River District Consulting Group, the EVOLVE program includes two components: free EVOLVE nonprofit networking events and a paid six-session EVOLVE training series. The EVOLVE program was created in response to the need for professional development and peer connection among nonprofit leaders in rural Virginia. The program is open to nonprofit organization staff, board members, and volunteers from Halifax, Mecklenburg, Lunenburg, Charlotte, Brunswick, Pittsylvania, and surrounding counties. 

The EVOLVE nonprofit networking events begin with the “EVOLVE Launch Party” on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 5:30pm-7:00pm at the SOVA Innovation Hub at 715 Wilborn Avenue in South Boston. Additional EVOLVE nonprofit networking events will be hosted throughout the year in partnership with the Dan River Nonprofit Network. These events are free to attend and do not require participation in the training series. These gatherings are designed to foster collaboration, resource-sharing, and relationship-building among local changemakers. 

The EVOLVE training series starts in September 2025 and concludes in December 2025. The first and sixth sessions will be held in-person at the SOVA Innovation Hub in South Boston, VA. Sessions two through five will be live, virtual sessions held on Zoom featuring guest facilitators who are subject matter experts in the nonprofit sector. 

The training series will cover core topics, including: 

• • Session 1: Setting the Foundation: Mission, Vision, and the Nonprofit Sector
  • Session 2: Building Strong Foundations: Nonprofit Governance & Board Development
  • Session 3: Money Matters: Fundraising, Grant Readiness, and Financial Management
  • Session 4: People Power: Leading Teams & Managing with Purpose
  • Session 5: Telling Your Story: Nonprofit Marketing & Community Engagement
  • Session 6: From Insight to Action: Sustaining Impact Beyond the Series

Participants who complete all six sessions will be recognized at a special completion ceremony following the sixth session. The cost to participate in the training series is $75 per person. A limited number of scholarships are available for nonprofits based in Halifax County, thanks to sponsorship from Hitachi. 

“Strong nonprofits are essential to strong communities, especially in rural regions like Southern Virginia,” said Mallory Lawter, Community Manager at the SOVA Innovation Hub. “We created the EVOLVE program to provide nonprofit leaders with the tools, connections, and confidence they need to grow their impact. By investing in the people who lead these organizations, we’re investing in the future of our region.”

“The Dan River Nonprofit Network is proud to support the EVOLVE program by fostering networking opportunities for nonprofit leaders,” said Kirsten Aherron, Programs Manager at the Dan River Nonprofit Network. “Strong organizations are built not only by learning from subject matter experts, but also by learning from one another. Our goal is to create a space where local expertise can be shared freely, helping to strengthen and sustain a vibrant nonprofit ecosystem.

“We believe that strong leadership and shared learning can transform how nonprofits serve their communities,” said Rachel del Campo Gatewood, Co-Founder and Principal Consultant, River District Consulting Group. “EVOLVE is built to deliver hands-on, results-oriented training that nonprofit leaders can put to use immediately. We’re invested in this initiative because we believe in what it makes possible: stronger organizations, better decisions, and deeper impact.”

To learn more or sign up, visit: sovainnovationhub.com/evolve

About Dan River Nonprofit Network

The Dan River Nonprofit Network supports and strengthens nonprofits across the Dan River Region, recognizing their critical role in enhancing community health, self-sufficiency, and quality of life. Since 2013, the Network has connected local organizations through shared learning and collaboration.

The organization focuses on three core areas to accomplish their vision of stronger nonprofits supporting a stronger community: networking to foster collaboration and resource sharing, skills training for nonprofit leaders and staff, and vetted resources to support operational excellence. Through these efforts, the Network empowers nonprofits to build capacity, improve services, and increase their impact. Learn more at danrivernonprofits.org.

About River District Consulting Group

River District Consulting Group (RDCG) is a strategic consulting firm based in Chatham, Virginia, that partners with nonprofits, municipalities, and funders to develop bold ideas, engage communities, and implement practical solutions. With deep roots in rural and small-town communities, RDCG specializes in strategic planning, community engagement, and grant support. Learn more at riverdistrictconsulting.com.

Media Contacts:
Liz Smith | SOVA Innovation Hub | hello@sovainnovationhub.com
Rachel del Campo Gatewood | rachel@riverdistrictconsulting.com
Evelyn Riley | Dan River Nonprofit Network | evelyn@danrivernonprofits.org

Unlock your potential. Build confidence. Grow as a communicator and leader — right here in Southern Virginia!

The SOVA Innovation Hub is excited to host a new meeting location for Toastmasters, serving South Boston, Halifax County, and the surrounding region. Whether you’re an experienced speaker or just starting out, Toastmasters offers a supportive, learn-by-doing environment where you can build valuable public speaking and leadership skills.

All interested community members are invited to help us kickoff Toastmasters at the SOVA Innovation Hub by attending our two Sample Meetings:

• • Kickoff Meeting #1 on Thursday, September 11, 2025, 12pm-1pm at the SOVA Innovation Hub >
  • Kickoff Meeting #2 on Thursday, September 25, 2025, 12pm-1pm at the SOVA Innovation Hub >

What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that helps people become more effective communicators and leaders. With over 16,000 clubs worldwide, Toastmasters empowers millions to speak confidently and lead with purpose.

By joining, you can:

• • Improve your public speaking skills
  • Build confidence in communication
  • Gain leadership experience
  • Connect with local professionals, entrepreneurs, and community members

About Our Toastmasters Meeting 

• • Meeting day & time: Twice a month on Thursdays, 12 PM - 1 PM, beginning September 11, 2025
  • Location: SOVA Innovation Hub, 715 Wilborn Avenue, South Boston, Virginia
  • Format: Primarily in person, with a hybrid option for remote participation
  • Club Membership:  This meeting location is an extension of the Danville Toastmasters Club
  • Who can join: Open to professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and all community members age 18+

What to Expect

Toastmasters at the SOVA Innovation Hub follows the proven Toastmasters educational program, available online to members. Our meetings will also be shaped by the interests and goals of our members. During each meeting, there are around 10 roles for members to play. This includes 2 to 3 people who will deliver short, prepared speeches. Learn more about what to expect at your first meeting >

Becoming a Member

Ready to join? Complete the membership application and return it to Venus Wilmer at venuswilmer@gmail.com. Note: Toastmasters at the SOVA Innovation Hub is an additional meeting location for the Danville Toastmasters Club, so you will be joining the Danville Club as a member. Here is a link to the membership application >

After applications are processed, the new member will receive an email from Toastmasters International to pay their dues and create their profile for the online learning Pathways Base Camp. At renewal, members will receive email from the Treasurer with reminders to go online and pay your recurring dues. 

Membership Costs

Toastmasters is an affordable professional development opportunity. Individuals can pay their own dues, or ask their employer to sponsor their membership. 

• • One-time new member fee: $20 - this fee will be covered for the first 20 new members, thanks to sponsorship from the Hello, Hello podcast!
  • Toastmasters Membership dues: $60 every six months, October - March and April - September.
  • Dues covers educational materials, club support, and access to the global Toastmasters network.)

Interested? Join Us!

Everyone is welcome! If you’d like to learn more:

• • Register to attend a Kickoff Meeting to experience a sample meeting:
    • Kickoff Meeting #1 on Thursday, September 11, 2025, 12pm-1pm at the SOVA Innovation Hub >
    • Kickoff Meeting #2 on Thursday, September 25, 2025, 12pm-1pm at the SOVA Innovation Hub >
  • Complete the Membership Application >
  • Explore Toastmasters.org to discover if the Toastmasters is right for you
  • Send your questions to volunteer meeting leader Keith Washo at keithwasho@gmail.com or contact the SOVA Innovation Hub team at hello@sovainnovationhub.com

We look forward to meeting you and helping you grow your voice and leadership skills!

Program Partners