Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Friends of Charlottesville Downtown, led by Executive Director Greer Achenbach, is calling for community volunteers to support their initiatives aimed at improving the downtown experience. Achenbach emphasized the organization’s reliance on volunteers stating, “Everything that we get to do is because we have great volunteers.” 

One of the key volunteer opportunities is for drivers of the Downtown Express, a train service running every Saturday starting August 31st. Achenbach encourages those interested to sign up on the organization’s website, saying, “It’s a wonderful volunteer opportunity, full of lots of joy.” 

In addition to volunteer recruitment, Achenbach addressed ongoing concerns about the downtown mall, including homelessness and the need for better maintenance. She advocated for a low-barrier shelter and the implementation of a block-by-block ambassador program to improve cleanliness and visitor experience. “The mall is not as clean and well maintained as it once was… we are advocating for an ambassador program; it’s called block by block. It is used in 120 other cities,” she explained. 

For more information on how to get involved or to learn about upcoming events like “Paint the Town Orange,” visit friendsofcville.org and listen to the full podcast episode here: