North Main Visionaries Expand Collaborative Efforts with New Committee Structure

Four community leaders appointed as chairs to drive progress on key priorities

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The North Main Visionaries Collaborative Group in Danville, Virginia, is entering a new phase of its work, advancing through the creation of focused committees and the appointment of four community leaders as committee chairs. 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.

Why it matters

The North Main Visionaries have become an essential partner in shaping thoughtful, community-informed redevelopment along the North Main corridor. This new committee structure reflects the group's growth and increased leadership capacity, allowing for deeper exploration of ideas, stronger partnerships, and more focused recommendations to advance sustainable and inclusive progress in the district.

The details

The collaborative group has established four committees aligned with key community priorities: Health, Education, Art & Culture, and Economic Growth. Each committee will be chaired by a respected community leader - Kitteria Mayo, Keisha Averett, Lauren Smith, and Takita Walker respectively. These individuals bring a wealth of experience, expertise and a deep commitment to the Danville community.

  • The North Main Visionaries Collaborative Group was launched in January 2024 as a community council.
  • The new committee structure and leadership appointments were announced in March 2026.

The players

North Main Visionaries Collaborative Group

A community council focused on shaping the future of the North Main corridor in Danville, Virginia.

River District Association

An organization leading the continued expansion and revitalization efforts in the North Main District.

Kitteria Mayo

Chair of the Health Committee, with over 30 years of experience in long-term care and public health, and a track record of community advocacy and leadership.

Keisha Averett

Chair of the Education Committee, a former PTA and Booster Club President, and current Danville School Board member committed to student-focused impact.

Lauren Smith

Chair of the Art & Culture Committee, a fine arts graduate with a background in communications and a deep appreciation for Danville's Victorian architecture.

Takita Walker

Chair of the Economic Growth Committee, the founder of VENT and VENT & Vibe Design Lab, empowering individuals and communities through creative expression and mental health awareness.

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What they’re saying

“The creation of committees marks a major milestone for the North Main Visionaries. This structure reflects the growth of the group and the leadership capacity that has developed through ongoing education and engagement.”

— Lashawn Farmer, Director of Design and Expansion, River District Association (wbtmdanville.com)

“The North Main Visionaries have become an essential partner in shaping thoughtful, community-informed redevelopment. 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.”

— Tina Leone, Executive Director, River District Association (wbtmdanville.com)

What’s next

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.

The takeaway

The North Main Visionaries' new committee structure and leadership appointments demonstrate the group's evolution from discussion to action, positioning it as a key driver of sustainable and inclusive growth in the North Main District. By leveraging the expertise and passion of community leaders, the collaborative is poised to make tangible progress on critical priorities and strengthen the connection between residents, stakeholders, and long-term revitalization efforts.