City adds key offices, new staff members to community engagement efforts
Richmond, VA - Through Summer 2025, the City of Richmond’s Human Services portfolio has added new staff positions in the area of neighborhood and community engagement. The new hires, some of whom take the lead on newly formed offices within the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS), will advance the City’s efforts to work closely for and alongside priority populations and neighborhoods.
The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services plays a critical role in strengthening the fabric of our city by serving as a bridge between local government and the communities it serves. NCS works to foster safe, connected, and empowered neighborhoods by providing access to vital resources, supporting resident-led initiatives, and coordinating community engagement efforts. Whether through neighborhood revitalization programs, youth and senior services, or partnerships with local organizations, the department ensures that all city residents have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. At its core, NCS is about building relationships, uplifting community voices, and creating spaces where every resident feels seen, heard, and supported.
“As we’re focusing on thriving together, we need to partner with communities and in communities both to hear what you all need from the city and to learn from you,” said Amy Popovich, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services. “We’re working to hear from you, to encourage you to be involved, to understand what’s happening at the city, and to help us make it better.”
New offices and staff members include the following:
- Greg Hopkins leads the newly formed Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
- Anna Jones joins the City as the Opioid Response Strategist for the Office of Opioid and Substance Use Response.
- Aneesah Smith will begin her tenure as the Equity and LGBTQIA+ Liaison on August 11, 2025.
- Alyson Saylors has been named Manager of the Office of Homeless Services.
These new arrivals will contribute to ongoing efforts across the City’s Neighborhood Services offices. These include the following:
- Office of Neighborhood Engagement
“At NCS, our mission is to meet people where they are—both literally and figuratively,” said Tiffany Ford, Director of the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. “The addition of new staff and offices allows us to deepen our connection to communities and expand our capacity to respond to the unique needs of Richmond’s residents. Whether we’re supporting families, addressing public health crises, or strengthening neighborhood leadership, our goal is always to build relationships rooted in trust, equity, and action. This is how we help make Richmond a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
“This investment in our Human Services team reflects a deep commitment to building a city where every neighborhood—and every neighbor—can thrive,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “The addition of these new roles and offices within the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services strengthens our ability to listen, respond, and partner with Richmonders, especially those who have too often been overlooked. Whether it’s gun violence prevention, opioid response, or ensuring LGBTQIA+ equity, these efforts are about more than service delivery—they’re about showing up, building trust, and working together to create a more connected and compassionate Richmond.”
During the next two weeks, the City of Richmond will highlight each area of focus across our social media platforms and website. Residents are encouraged to learn more about these offices and the communities they engage by following @rvagov on Instagram or Facebook or visiting www.rva.gov.
