By Kathy Chouteau
Richmond Main Street Initiative (RMSI)—a community-based 501(c)3 nonprofit that works to revitalize historic downtown Richmond—has appointed longtime Programs and Communications Manager Alicia Gallo as its interim executive director. The change in leadership comes following the resignation of Executive Director Vivian Wong in late February and is effective immediately. Wong stepped down from her role to spend more time with family and other responsibilities.
Gallo has served at RMSI for nearly 11 years, first joining the organization as an AmeriCorps Vista Member (through Bay Area LISC) in June 2010. She eventually moved into the position of outreach coordinator, and later, programs and communications manager, playing a pivotal role in expanding RMSI’s organizational capacity and impact.
Throughout her tenure, some of Gallo’s key accomplishments have included revitalizing the Neighborhood Ambassador Program, building strong partnerships with stakeholders and supporters, establishing the DRPBID, expanding the organization’s community events into signature activities, as well as overseeing the Art In Windows, small business assistance and youth development programs, per RMSI.
“I am honored to have the trust and support of our staff and board of directors,” said Gallo regarding her new role. “Perhaps more than ever, Richmond Main Street’s mission and leadership is vitally important. Our foundation is strong and I am confident that the momentum we’ve built will continue to grow.”
As the search for a permanent executive director gets underway, Gallo will team with RMSI Project Manager Ronnie Mills and the Board of Directors to support the downtown community through promotional programming and other mission-driven initiatives.
RMSI coupled the announcement of Gallo’s new role with an invitation to the community to join its Annual Stakeholder Meeting Wed., March 24 from 5-6 p.m. on Zoom to learn about the organization’s future plans. For the meeting link, as well as more info about RMSI, click here.
