We are grateful to all our supporters, from those who follow us on Instagram and share our posts to the ones who hosted and attended meetups intended to spread the word about our mission and grow the volunteer base. Every little bit helps and we couldn’t do it without you.
As we look back on the past year, we’re proud to share the incredible milestones our team has achieved in the fight for gun violence prevention (GVP). Here’s what we’ve accomplished and why it matters:
Created over 50 educational posts on Instagram to help others learn more about the gun violence epidemic, growing our audience over 30% across all platforms
Social media is a powerful tool for spreading awareness and educating a wide audience. These posts have sparked meaningful conversations and inspired others to take action.
Hosted 10 meet ups to educate members on how to become a GVP activist. (Want to host your own meetup? Email volunteer@virginiamomsforchange.org for more information!)
Building a grassroots movement starts with education. These meetups empowered individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to advocate for change in their communities.
Had 10 meetings with legislators (2 with Republicans and 8 with Democrats)
Direct engagement with lawmakers ensures our voices are heard where it matters most. These ongoing meetings are critical in advocating for stronger gun laws and bipartisan support.
Encouraged members to vote, educated them on how to do so, and informed voters on candidates’ GVP policy positions
Voting is a cornerstone of democracy. By empowering our members with information, we continue to fight to elect leaders committed to prioritizing gun safety.
Increased our volunteer base by almost 50% (THANK YOU ALL!)
Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. With more hands on deck, we can tackle even bigger challenges and expand our efforts.
Attended our first Advocacy Day in January (Sign up for Advocacy Day 2025)
With inspiring speakers at the vigil, great meetings with our legislators, and a chance to meet up with GVP advocates from all across the state from a variety of organizations, Advocacy Day helped to fire us up for a year of very important work.
Held a meet & greet with congressional candidate Leslie Mehta
Building relationships with candidates ensures that GVP remains a priority in their platforms and future legislation.
Made it on 12 on your side WWBT
Media coverage brings visibility to our cause and helps spread our message to a wider audience.
Published an Op Ed in the Richmond Times Dispatch on Gov. Youngkin’s vetoes
Public commentary in prominent outlets helps hold leaders accountable and keeps gun safety in the public discourse.
Launched our Village Square, an email list for urgent action items (Sign up for Village Square on our website)
Timely action is crucial in advocacy work. Village Square ensures our members can respond quickly to important issues.
Supported 63 bills and opposed 32 in the Virginia General Assembly (VGA) and got members to call, email, submit public comments, and testify
Legislative advocacy is at the heart of our mission. Mobilizing our members to engage in the process makes a real difference in the outcomes.
Joined a coalition rally encouraging Governor Youngkin to not veto the 48 GVP bills passed by the VGA
Coalition-building strengthens our collective voice and demonstrates unified support for critical legislation.
Welcomed four new members to our board
Maria Pahuja, Jackie Beilhart, Liza Kimbrough, and Marissa Sapega have all joined VMFC!
Launched a new Advisory Council
The Advisory Council expands our expertise and strengthens our ability to strategize and implement impactful programs.
Partnered with Richmond City Public Schools, Loudoun County Public Schools, four daycares, two legislators (thanks Del. Carr and Rep. Wittman!) and Chesterfield County’s Families First Program to disseminate safe storage information
Partnerships with community organizations and public figures help us reach families directly and promote life-saving practices.
We know that it’s an uphill fight given the new presidential administration, but we had an impactful 2024 and are looking forward to more of the same in 2025. Join us as we continue to advocate for change, educate our communities, and build a safer future.
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