Lisa D. Cumbey recognized by Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities
- Details
- Published: Wednesday, November 23 2016
- Written by Diversity Richmond
Humanitarian award presented for community contributions
For the last 53 years, the Richmond Chapter of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities has annually recognized community leaders for their work to bring about social justice by fighting discrimination through education and activism. This year, community member, Lisa Cumbey, was one of four people to receive the recognition.
VCIC works with schools, businesses and communities to achieve success by addressing prejudices in all forms. A nationally recognized organization, its progress is cited often. For example, a middle school that VCIC partnered with, reported a 74% decrease in discipline referrals in just one year after the students and staff participated in VCIC programs.
Founding Principle of Propolis Design Group, Lisa's passion for social justice has been evident for years. Her work with the LGBT community spans back to the 1980s when she donated design and marketing services for pride festivals, AIDS fundraisers and organizations such as Fan Free Clinic and the Richmond Gay Pride Coalition. She has since donated services to many causes, including several videos for Equality Virginia's OUTstanding Virginians Awards, and branding for Richmond Lesbian Feminists. Lisa and Kim Farlow designed and executed our rebranding campaign. Lisa co-chairs our Iridian Gallery steering committee, serves on our Special Events and Fundraising committee and, with board member Robyn Bentley, produces our beautiful newsletter. It is estimated that, through her contributions of time and talent, that Lisa has donated over $1M in pro bono services to the nonprofit community.
Lisa is also the first individual recognized by VCIC for work in the LGBT community. Once again, history was made.
Pictured: VCIC chair Richard L. Thalhimer presents the 2016 Humanitarian Award to Lisa Cumbey