RVAg announced today that it will take over management of the Westchester Farmers Market, effective immediately. The Westchester Farmers Market, entering its 10th season, is located in the Westchester Commons Shopping Center at Rt. 288 & Midlothian in Chesterfield County.
RVAg’s Executive Director Lisa Dearden states “We are very excited to add another market under the RVAg umbrella. This vibrant market is an important element for the community as a venue for local growers and artisan crafters. Its location on the Village Green in the center of a busy shopping center makes it an ideal place for families and working people to stop and shop for local food and crafts, listen to some live music and support their local economy while ensuring local farmers and artisans thrive and stay in business.
RVAg is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization headquartered in Goochland, VA, whose purpose is to create and grow venues for local farmers and artisans to be able to offer their products directly to consumers; to market those venues; and to cultivate community engagement using local food as a common link. The organization runs two markets in Goochland County – Manakin Market, and Goochland Courthouse Market, as well as Virginia’s only state-sponsored farmers market – OnTheSquareVA Farmers Market adjacent to Capitol Square in Downtown Richmond.
Lisa Dearden will manage the market in 2019, with the assistance of her staff.
RVAg has hired and trained additional staff to cover it’s growing presence throughout Central Virginia. Jennifer Hynson, who is currently undergoing her Market Manager Certification through the Virginia Farmers Market Association, will act as RVAg’s Assistant Market Manager. Katie Sheddon is the organization’s Social Media Marketing Specialist. Returning as Market Manager for Manakin Market is Kim Usry, and Theresa Burks as Market Assistant and Accounts Manager. Amy Fowler is the organization’s Program Manager.
RVAg will oversee the market’s entire operation, from vendor management, musical performances, special events like chef’s demos and kid’s activities, and marketing and social media.
For additional information on the market, or on how to participate as a vendor, email Lisa Dearden: manager@rvagriculture.org, or visit www.RVAgriculture.org