APRIL 2021

Greetings! Forty-one years ago today, on April 1, 1980, the Rev. Dr. Jeffrey B. Spence became Executive Director of the Virginia Region of the National Conference of Christians and Jews. During his 29 years of leadership of this organization, NCCJ in Virginia developed an array of programs for youth, clergy, law enforcement, and more, and we evolved to become the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities.  We are sad to share that Jeff passed away yesterday. All of us at VCIC remember and honor his leadership that meaningfully advanced understanding and respect across the Commonwealth. As one long-time VCIC supporter shared last night in describing Jeff, "He was certainly my mentor, guide, and encourager." There are many opportunities to carry forward Jeff's mission and example. As you do so, please let us know how VCIC can partner with you. Contact the VCIC State Office by phone at (804) 515-7950 or by emailing us. We look forward to working with you!

VCIC Updates & Announcements

Welcome Emma Please join VCIC in welcoming Emma Yackso as our new Outreach Programs Coordinator! Emma joins VCIC after 5½ years at Side by Side, where she was most recently Director of Youth Programs and Services. Prior to Side by Side, Emma was a Clinical Social Work intern at Health Brigade, a Tobacco Education Program Coordinator for a youth outreach program in New Orleans, Louisiana, and a Therapeutic Wilderness Clinician in Denver, Colorado. She earned her B.A. from George Washington University and her MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University.  Send an email to welcome Emma!

Diversity Dialogue Day Thanks to grant funding from Dominion Energy, VCIC is conducting Diversity Dialogue Day forums for high school students virtually in 2020-2021! Contact Tally to volunteer or get your school involved in the rescheduled Lynchburg Diversity Dialogue Day (taking place April 16).

Featured Articles and Curriculum

This month's article and curriculum links focus on student organizations. Please share your ideas and suggestions for future updates! ARTICLES 6 Tips for Running Virtual School Clubs Elevating Student Voice in Education Recognizing the Role of Afterschool and Summer Programs and Systems in Reopening and Rebuilding Starting an Activist Club at School CURRICULUM  After-School Curriculum Planning Resource Toolkit GSA Values for Justice Ideas for Student Civic Action in a Time of Social Uncertainty Incorporating Restorative Justice in Afterschool Tools to Build On: Resources and guides for parents and educators

Upcoming Contests, Funding, and Programs

CONTESTS (Contests linked to diversity, inclusion, and leadership) NY Times Student Editorial Contest (Deadline: April 13) Barron Prize for Young Heroes (Deadline: April 15) Power of Youth Challenge (Deadline: April 30) Hey U.G.L.Y. (Uniquely Gifted Lovable You) Video Contest (Deadline: May 31)

FUNDING (Grant opportunities to recognize leadership or support projects and clubs) McCarthey Dressman Foundation Teacher Development Grants (Deadline: April 15) VOYA Unsung Heroes Awards Program (Deadline: April 30) Karma for Cara Foundation Micro-Grants (Deadline: rolling) The Pollination Project (Deadline: rolling)

PROGRAMS (Initiatives and observances to advance character education and inclusion) World Autism Awareness Day (April 2) Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom Hashoah) (April 8) Day of Silence (April 23) YWCA Stand Against Racism (April 22-26) Global Youth Service Day (April 23-25)

DONATE NOW Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities www.inclusiveVA.org

VCIC State Office 5511 Staples Mill Road Suite 202 Richmond, VA 23228 Phone: (804) 515-7950

VCIC Hampton Roads Office at Virginia Wesleyan University Allen Village, Graybeal 5 5817 Wesleyan Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23455 Phone: (757) 390-0720

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