Virginia Peninsula Chamber Foundation, Inc.

The Virginia Peninsula Chamber Foundation, Inc. (VPCF) founded in 1981 has a mission to promoteand advance economic stability on the Virginia Peninsula business communities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, James City County and York County through the development and delivery of business education programs with emphasis on basic business education and leadership training for adults, high school students and Peninsula business organizations while providing mentoring support systems. 

The foundation has developed three proven educational programs that produce community leaders. These unique programs incorporate different teaching styles and require the students to develop program solutions to improve the present economic climate within the Peninsula.

The premier program, The Leadership Institute is an adult program designed to take current business professionals and develop their leadership skills and motivation for community service on the Peninsula. The program works to promote the development of civic leadership from within the business community and fosters opportunities for increased communication and cooperation among the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Through a series of initiatives and programs, the Leadership Institute provides opportunities for both recognized and emerging leaders to work collaboratively on issues of importance to the Peninsula community.

The Youth Leadership Alliance is a youth program that is targeted to local high school student leaders with a goal is to provide a rewarding leadership experience that will empower and inspire the students to achieve personal and professional success. The program consists of 4 full-day sessions that broaden the participant's knowledge on local government, business, and civic activities as well as developing and carrying out a community project.

The Youth Career Expo is an event that provides Peninsula rising high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to develop and create business connections with Peninsula employers and to improve their employability skills. The expo provides students with the opportunity to develop business skills through mock interviews, educational seminars, and the introduction to community, business, and local and state government and elected leaders

The VPCF is becoming reengaged with its mission and developing new programs to further VPCF mission.

For ways to become involved with the VPCF or to make a contribution please call Mike Kuhns at 757-262-2000 ext. 170 or email mkuhns@vpcc.org