Mission
To develop and coordinate Retail Alliance’s educational and charitable efforts in support of existing and aspiring business owners.
History
Giving back to the community has always been a major component of our DNA. We believe merchants can and should contribute to the improvement of the community in which they operate. In fact, since 1990, the Retail Alliance has given almost four million dollars to local organizations.
Our charitable giving has included everything from grants and event sponsorship to underwriting economic development efforts and seed money provision for small business growth.
In 2010, the Retail Alliance Board of Directors mandated preservation of these values through the establishment of the Retail Alliance Foundation, created to support the Retail Alliance’s charitable and educational activities.
Programs
Certificate in Retail Operations
RA Foundation Funders
Thanks to our wonderful partners who make the mission possible! With your support, Retail Alliance Foundation can provide our educational programming to more aspiring and existing entrepreneurs. As a community, please support those who support us!
Support Our Mission
You can help us continue to make a difference for small business owners. Many of our participants are just starting out on their retail journey. They are individuals exiting the military or entrepreneurs with a passion to open their own store who have subject matter expertise on specific products or services but lack an understanding of business and retail operations.
If you would like to join us in our commitment towards helping retail entrepreneurs succeed, please consider a tax-deductible donation to: Retail Alliance Foundation (838 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510).
Even a small donation can make a big difference in our ability to provide this program to more entrepreneurs:
- $20 = textbooks (per student)
- $100 = technology costs (per student)
- $495 = student scholarships (per student): We have payment plans available, but many aspiring retailers will still need help as they get started. We would love to talk with you about providing scholarship money to deserving students
- $5,000 = course sponsorship (per class): Organizations may sponsor a course for $5,000. Sponsors may have the classroom named for them (eg The ACME Retail Accounting Classroom) as well as having their name/or logo appear on the classroom banner. Sponsorships are good for two years, after which they may be renewed annually for $1,000 up to an additional three years.
The Retail Alliance Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation to the Retail Alliance Foundation is tax-deductible.
RA Foundation Board of Directors
Jack Plomgren
Board Chair
Cartridge Man
Randall Benjamin, CPP PHR
UNFI
Michael J. Benton
Stark & Legum
Jenny Crittenden
Gloucester Main Street Preservation Trust
Robin Gregory
Dollar Bank
Lori Janke
Clothes Mentor/Once Upon A Child
Pamela Katrancha
Garden Gazebo/Hickory Farms
Vice Chairwoman of the Board
Mary Landgrebe
Retail Inventory Solutions
Brock Potter
Potter & Company
Philip M. Scotti
Philip Michael Fashion for Men
Investment Chairman
John Small
Small’s Restaurant & Catering Co.
Rod Watson
Score Hampton Roads
Donate
The Retail Alliance Foundation is a non-profit organization that depends on the support of individuals, businesses and foundations who want to help retail entrepreneurs succeed.
If you would like to join us in our commitment towards retail business success and economic development in Southeast Virginia, please consider a tax-deductible donation to:
Retail Alliance Foundation
838 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA 23501
For any questions regarding donating please contact RA Foundation staff.
The Retail Alliance Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation to the Retail Alliance Foundation is tax-deductible.