Dear ,
This is my last Weekly Roundup message because my final official day on staff will be March 31. I will of course remain a volunteer and a supporter.
A few weeks ago, I sent an email explaining my decision to step down - a combination of having worked with the board to find the perfect person to succeed me in leading the organization, Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook - and a desire to be more present with my husband.
It has been an honor and a joy to work with the Virginia Interfaith Center for nearly a decade. Together, we’ve made a difference in Virginia – lifting up the concerns of those who need access to health care, those struggling to find affordable housing, working families, and those who are incarcerated. We are doing what the faith community should be doing in every state, but only a few states have faith-based advocacy groups as effective as ours.
The next few years are critical for the faith community. We must continue advocating policies that center people – especially those struggling financially. We are a wealthy nation and a prosperous state. We can do more to live up to the promise of “We the People.” Unfortunately, I anticipate we will have our hands full this year fighting to preserve Medicaid and other federal programs, protecting our immigrant neighbors, working to make Virginia more just for those on limited incomes, and engaging voters in the November elections. Lots of work to do!
We will need more leaders throughout Virginia. I’m asking you to consider getting more involved – whether by engaging your congregation, school or community, or by recruiting others to join us. Let us know how you want to help. In the coming weeks and months, we’ll introduce new volunteer opportunities, and we welcome your ideas as well.
Going forward, I will continue to support VICPP as an active volunteer, advocate, and supporter. In the next few months, I will also be updating the Midwest Academy organizing manual, Organizing for Social Change, that I helped write many years ago. I hope this will serve as a valuable tool for groups like VICPP. After that, I will find new ways to advance the fight for justice - perhaps building on some of the lessons from Virginia Interfaith to strengthen other statewide advocacy networks. So – no bon bons for this gal!
I love the Virginia Interfaith Center and our mission and work. Thank you for your support and encouragement over the years.
With gratitude,
Kim Bobo
Co-Executive Director | 
