Dear ,

Are you ready to make a real difference? This fall, we're building something extraordinary and we need passionate, dedicated volunteers like YOU to help us create lasting change through interfaith advocacy and community action.  

When diverse voices unite around shared values, incredible things happen. Our interfaith advocacy work brings together people of all backgrounds to champion justice, equity, and compassion. Whether you're motivated by faith, community, or simply the desire to make the world a better place, there's room for you at our table. 

Whether you prefer working in-office or remotely, we have opportunities that match your schedule and skills. From research and administrative support to data management and helping at our annual Interfaith Souls to the Polls events in Richmond, there are countless ways to contribute. Whatever your background or expertise, we'll find the perfect fit for you to make an impact. 

Step 1: Fill out our volunteer application form (it's quick, we promise!) 

Step 2: Plan to join us for our Virtual Fall Volunteer Orientation on Wednesday, October 22 at 6:00 PM. 

Whether you can give five hours a week or five hours a month, whether you're a seasoned activist or taking your first steps into advocacy, WE WANT YOU! Every contribution matters. Every voice counts. Every volunteer brings us closer to the change we seek. 

In times of uncertainty, like during the federal government shutdown affecting so many families, the work supporting one another and advocating for justice becomes more vital than ever. As we hold those impacted in our thoughts and prayers, let's also answer the call to action. Join us in creating the change our neighbors need. 

Yours in Solidarity, 
Keisha 

Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook
Executive Director 

Voting is one of the most powerful ways we can shape our communities and our future. As election season approaches, we encourage you to make a plan to cast your ballot early.

Inspired by our summer workshops for congregations considering developing affordable housing, VICPP will host an online workshop on October 2. It is open to all individuals and faith communities that want to support affordable housing and focused on partnership and advocacy at both the local and state level. Hear from experts in the field and get equipped for action! 

In partnership with the Hampton Branch of the NAACP, VICPP is co-sponsoring a Souls to the Polls Celebration in the City of Hampton on Sunday, October 12. If you’re able to arrive early, you can meet at First Baptist Church, 229 North King Street Hampton, VA  23669, at 12:30 for a powerful march together to the city’s registrar. Sunday voting is available from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, and the celebration will be across the street offering music, food, and fun during the same time frame! 

Our affiliate in Winchester, the Valley Interfaith Council, are hosting an Interfaith Justice Revival at Braddock Street UMC, 103 S Braddock St Winchester, VA 22601, on Tuesday, October 14! Faith and community leaders from different traditions will share reflections on justice and the importance of civic engagement. The evening will begin with a potluck supper, which will be followed by a program with local leaders representing diverse faith traditions, inspiring songs from the community, and presentations from VICPP, VPLC, and Virginia’s NAACP. Please register at the link below! 

Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook, the new executive director of VICPP, continues her tour to the Goochland/Manakin-Sabot area near Richmond. Hear about VICPP’s work on justice issues like maternal health, prison education, housing, and workers’ rights—and meet the first African American to lead the organization.

VICPP is partnering with Ekoji Buddhist Sangha of Richmond, and Williamsburg Buddhist Sangha to invite dharma practitioners from across the Commonwealth (Buddhists, Hindus, and others) for a day of connection, reflection, and public presence. 

We will gather at Richmond Hill, share in a lunch (vegetarian, vegan, diary-free, and gluten-free options available), then take a silent, meditative walk down to the lawn near the Virginia General Assembly building. The route is about a mile each way. This is not a protest, but a peaceful expression of our shared values. 

Our hope is to document the event and inspire future conversations and action around the role of interfaith organizing and statewide advocacy. The purpose is to demonstrate that our dharma communities are present, connected, and committed to building a more just and compassionate Virginia.

The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy advocates economic,
racial, and social justice in Virginia’s policies and practices
through education, prayer, and action.