Friends of St Luke Odd Fellows & Household of Ruth

Thank you for making our first GiveLocal NRV, 2026, campaign such a success! Together, 28 generous donors helped us raise nearly $2,500—including a $250 Golden Ticket prize—surpassing our $1,500 goal by almost $1,000. We are truly grateful for your support.

Because of you, we’ll participate in more than eight festivals and family-friendly events across the New River Valley in 2026, reaching more than 4,000 people. We’ll also distribute more than 1,000 Maggie L. Walker-inspired banks to local elementary school children, introducing them to Blacksburg’s connection to Mrs. Walker and her remarkable legacy as the first African American woman to found and serve as president of a bank.

Your generosity also helps us preserve and share the stories of St. Luke Hall, expand educational opportunities, and build partnerships that bring this nationally significant history to more people.

With gratitude,

The Friends of St. Luke, Odd Fellows & Household of Ruth

What most people don’t know is that a nationally significant story lives right here in Blacksburg. The St. Luke, Odd Fellows & Household of Ruth Hall—listed on the National Register of Historic Places—was a center of leadership, mutual aid, and community care. This wasn’t just a building. It was a place where African American history was actively being made.

We’re working to preserve and share that story—so it’s no longer hidden.

Join us for Give Local NRV! This is the Friends of St. Luke, Odd Fellows & Household of Ruth’s first year participating, and our goal is simple: encourage as many people as possible to give, no matter the amount. The more community support we receive, the more visibility and recognition our emerging non-profit gains through the Community Foundation.

Please help spread the word and ask your friends to support us, too! Giving is easy — donations can be made online or by check.