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VIRA Establishes Global Capability Center in Hyderabad, India

At VIRA, growth is about continuously strengthening how we collaborate, innovate, and serve our clients. 

Early this year, we celebrated the Grand Opening of VIRA’s Global Capability Center (GCC) in Hyderabad, India. The new office reflects a strategic step in VIRA’s global journey and supports the company’s long-term vision of building a connected organization that brings together talent, expertise, and capabilities across regions. 

Strengthening VIRA’s Global Capabilities 

The Hyderabad Global Capability Center extends several of VIRA’s core departments—including IT, engineering, and operational support—working closely with colleagues in the United States and across the organization. 

Through this model, teams collaborate across time zones and functions, participating in the same planning, decision-making, and execution rhythms that guide how VIRA operatesglobally. This approach strengthens knowledge sharing, accelerates delivery, and supports a more integrated way of solving complex challenges. 

The Global Capability Center reflects VIRA Insight’s long-term approach to building a more integrated global operating model. By bringing together talent, technology expertise, and operational capabilities in Hyderabad, the GCC serves as a center of excellence that supports innovation, operational efficiency, and global collaboration across the organization. 

The GCC also strengthens VIRA’s ability to advance engineering, data, and technology capabilities across the business—helping accelerate innovation, improve operational efficiency, and support complex global programs for clients. 

The center has been built intentionally, with a strong focus on thoughtful hiring, onboarding, and deep integration into VIRA’s culture and ways of working. The result is a team that operates as a fully connected part of the broader organization. 

Marking the Milestone 

In January, the Hyderabad team celebrated the official Grand Opening of the Global Capability Center, marking an exciting milestone for both the local team and the broader VIRA organization.  

The opening reflects VIRA Insight’s continued commitment to innovation, collaboration, and building a strong presence in India that supports the company’s global vision. 

Looking Ahead 

As VIRA continues to grow, the Hyderabad Global Capability Center will play an increasingly important role in strengthening the company’s global capabilities and operational excellence. 

The GCC supports VIRA’s long-term vision of building a more connected and agile organization—one that brings together talent, perspectives, and expertise from across geographies to solve complex challenges and deliver meaningful outcomes for clients. 

By integrating engineering, technology, data, and operational expertise across global teams, the Hyderabad GCC helps VIRA continue advancing how we design, build, and deliver retail experiences at scale. 

As the GCC continues to evolve, it will play a key role in accelerating innovation, strengthening operational efficiency, and supporting VIRA’s long-term global growth. 


Retail Is Evolving Fast. Here’s What the Data Really Means for Growth

Yes, headlines about store closures in early 2026 are hard to ignore.  But if you look at the bigger picture, the story of physical retail in the next few years is not one of decline. It is one of reinvention, investment, and strategic expansion.

According to Retail TouchPoints data, 51 percent of retailers plan to open at least one to fifty stores through 2028, proving that the physical store is still a core engine of brand connection and revenue. Even more telling, 35 percent of companies intend to remodel or renovate between 26 and 50 percent of their fleet in the same timeframe. That is not survival mode. That is growth mode.

Retailers are signaling that stores are not just a place to transact. They are a place to experiment, differentiate, and build deeper loyalty.

The Next Era of Store Strategy: Rotation, Experience, Flexibility

In the next 12 to 24 months, brands are doubling down on concepts that keep stores fresh and relevant.

Retail TouchPoints data shows:

  • 54 percent are planning rotating concepts like shop-in-shops and collab drops
  • 43 percent are building product-led experiential concepts
  • 38 percent are leaning into pop ups

This shift reflects a major truth. Shoppers now expect discovery. They want “what’s new” every time they walk in. The brands who can rapidly adapt and refresh at scale will win.

This is exactly where retail manufacturers like us come in. The industry is no longer asking for static fixtures or traditional set-and-forget environments. They need agile manufacturing partners who can support shorter production cycles, modular builds, and brand environments that can evolve in near real time.

When retailers experiment, manufacturers must innovate even faster.

The New Demands of Modern Store Design

Retailers are now asking:
• How do we build store environments that integrate seamlessly with digital touchpoints
• How do we use data to inform layout, product adjacencies, and fixture needs
• How can our physical space become more responsive and easier to evolve

The future store will be measured as much by adaptability as by aesthetics.

How We Help Retailers Turn These Trends Into Revenue

As a premier full‑service partner for retail and brands, we play a key role in helping teams turn industry shifts into real impact. Our value goes beyond building what retailers need today. We focus on anticipating what they will need next.

Here is how we partner with brands to fuel growth

  1. We help retailers innovate quickly

    Rotating concepts, pop ups, and collab drops require manufacturers who can prototype fast, scale fast, and adjust even faster.

  2. We build modular and flexible environments

    Stores that can evolve month to month drive higher engagement and lower capital cost over time.

  3. We support modern in-store experiences

    From device-ready fixtures to integrated digital surfaces, we ensure physical environments enhance omnichannel shopper expectations

  4. We bring cross-industry insights

    Serving retail and other sectors allows us to deliver wider trends, innovative materials, and deeper design thinking.

This is how we help brands stay ahead in the most competitive retail environment in years. When physical stores are evolving this quickly, retailers need a manufacturing partner who moves at the speed of culture.


VIRA Insight India Team

VIRA Insight Expands to India: Building a Team That Reflects Our Global Vision

At VIRA Insight, growth is not just about numbers. It is about people, culture, and values. That is why our expansion into India is such an exciting milestone. This journey is about blending global excellence with local strengths to create a team that drives success across borders.

Why India?

“To bring the best of both worlds together by combining VIRA’s people, culture, and values with the incredible talent in India,” shared by one of our team members. Hyderabad is now home to a growing team that embodies our commitment to collaboration and innovation.

Hiring with Purpose

We chose an organic hiring approach focused on outbound sourcing and personal outreach. “Every hire was intentional and aligned with our values,” shared the team. This strategy helped us build a strong foundation and attracted candidates who deeply appreciated VIRA’s culture.

Onboarding That Feels Like Home

Our onboarding process goes beyond the basics. New hires meet department heads, receive detailed training plans, and experience a structured orientation designed for success. SWAG and team dinners making everyone feel part of the VIRA family from day one.

One Global Team, Working Together

From day one, collaboration is at the core of our approach. The India team works in sync with U.S. teams, sharing knowledge and participating in meetings that build strong connections. This seamless integration fosters learning, teamwork, and reinforces that India is an essential part of our global team .

Blending Global and Local

We combine global standards with regional creativity and resilience. Leaders from every department communicate how the India office contributes to VIRA’s global vision. This synergy creates a richer, more dynamic organization.

Looking Ahead

Hyderabad is quickly becoming a hub for multiple departments, marking a major milestone in VIRA’s global strategy. The India team is focused on driving innovation, improving efficiency, and exploring opportunities in IT and manufacturing to support both U.S. and India markets. With advancements like artificial intelligence on the horizon, the team is positioned to play a key role in global success by enhancing processes and ensuring seamless collaboration across time zones.

Advice for New Market Launches

Launching in a new market requires patience, persistence, and flexibility. Success comes from celebrating milestones, adapting strategies to local needs, and focusing on cultural alignment. Building with intention ensures that growth is not just about scaling but about creating a future-ready workforce that reflects our values.

This is just the beginning. With a strong foundation and shared values, our India team is ready to make an impact that spans borders. Here’s to the bright future ahead!


Manufacturing with Confidence: Quality Control at Every Step

At VIRA Insight, quality isn’t just a final step. It’s embedded in every stage of our production process. From the moment raw materials arrive to the final assembly and packaging, our team is committed to delivering products that meet the highest standards of durability, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

QC Starts with the Materials

Every product begins with a thorough review of raw materials. We inspect for consistency, strength, and compliance with environmental and safety standards. This early-stage QC ensures that only approved materials move forward in the production process, laying the foundation for a reliable finished product.

Precision in Every Process

Once materials are cleared, they enter a series of production stages and each with its own quality checkpoints:

  • Cutting & Drilling – We verify measurements and tolerances to ensure precision.
  • Edge Banding – Our team checks adhesion, alignment, and finish quality.
  • Painting & Finishing – We inspect for color consistency, surface smoothness, and durability.
  • Assembly – Components are tested for fit, form, function, and structural integrity to ensure they meet design specifications and perform reliably.
  • Packing – Before products are sealed and shipped, we conduct final inspections to confirm correct labeling, protective packaging, and overall presentation. If a product arrives to our partners damaged, we’ve failed so we treat packaging as a critical last line of defense in our quality promise.

At every step, our QC teams document findings, flag anomalies, and make real-time adjustments to maintain consistency and reduce rework.

Rigorous Testing Across Global Teams

Our quality control process spans both international and domestic teams. With experts stationed overseas and in the U.S., we conduct comprehensive packaging tests in labs that simulate real-world shipping conditions. A key protocol is our 10-point drop test, which evaluates how well our packaging protects products during transit. This proactive approach helps reduce damage and ensures a smooth delivery experience.

Built-In Compliance from the Start

Before a product is even created, we verify it meets all necessary compliance standards, including:

  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

This forward-thinking strategy helps us avoid delays at ports and ensures every shipment is ready to go.

A Greener Future for Packaging

Sustainability is a growing priority at VIRA Insight. We’re actively working to reduce our environmental footprint by exploring eco-friendly packaging alternatives. While we still use some Styrofoam for protection, we’re minimizing its use and transitioning toward greener materials. Our goal: 99.99% eco-friendly packaging in the coming years without compromising product safety.

Let’s Build Something Great Together

Ready to start your next project?
Contact VIRA Insight today and discover how we combine precision, care, and sustainability in every package we deliver.


How Injection Molding Machines Help Us Build Better, Faster, and Smarter

If you’ve ever wondered how everyday plastic products from food packaging to personal care components are made with such precision and speed, the answer often lies in injection molding. At our facility, we rely on two powerhouse machines to get the job done: the Chen Hsong SPEED258 and a Husky injection molding system.

Each machine brings something unique to the table, and together, they help us stay flexible, efficient, and ready to meet a wide range of production needs from simple display trays to specialized, multi-component assemblies for retail environments.

SPEED258: Fast & Efficient

Let’s start with the Chen Hsong SPEED258. This machine is all about speed and efficiency, especially when it comes to producing thin-wall plastic parts. Think corner guards, price tag holders and display trays.

What makes it stand out?

  • It’s fast. With injection speeds up to 450 mm/sec, it’s perfect for high-volume jobs.
  • It’s smart. The Beckhoff XMold controller gives us precise control over every shot.
  • It’s energy-conscious. Servo motors and pressure sensors help us cut down on power usage without compromising performance.

Use the SPEED258 when speed and high-quality parts are essential.

Husky: Precision and Power for High-Volume Production

Our Husky injection molding system is built for precision and scalability, making it ideal for complex or regulated products like dispensing closures, product dividers and display components.

Here’s why we love it:

  • It’s designed for high-output runs, making it easy to manufacture consistent parts at scale
  • It’s incredibly accurate, making it ideal for industries where quality and consistency are non-negotiable.
  • It comes with real-time monitoring, so we can catch issues before they become problems.

If we’re working on a large-scale project that demands tight tolerances and high repeatability, Husky is our go-to.

Why Use Both?

You might be wondering why not just stick with one machine? The truth is, each machine excels in different areas, and having both gives us the flexibility to take on a wider range of projects.

  • SPEED258 is perfect for fast-turnaround jobs.
  • Husky shines when precision, volume, and reliability are key.

By using both, we can match the right machine to the right job, optimize our workflow, and deliver better results to our customers.

Why It Matters: Delivering Value to Clients Through Smart Manufacturing

Our investment in both the Chen Hsong SPEED258 and Husky injection molding machines is about more than just equipment. It’s about building a manufacturing process that’s responsive to your needs and designed to deliver consistent value.

Here’s how this setup benefits our clients and prospects:

Reliable Production Capabilities

With two distinct systems in place, we’re able to manage a wide range of part types, materials, and production volumes. This gives us the flexibility to support both specialized projects and ongoing product lines with dependable output.

Consistent Quality

Husky’s precision controls and monitoring systems help us maintain tight tolerances and repeatable results especially important for industries like technology, beauty, health and wellness, where consistency is critical.

Smarter Resource Allocation

By aligning each machine with the right type of job, we optimize material use, reduce waste, and manage energy consumption responsibly. All this without compromising on quality or reliability.

Material and Design Flexibility

Our machines support a wide range of thermoplastics and bioplastics, giving clients more options when it comes to material performance, sustainability goals, and regulatory compliance.

Customization and Responsiveness

Whether you need a custom mold, a unique material blend, or a specific part geometry, our setup allows us to respond to specialized requests and adapt to evolving product requirements.

Dependable Project Support

We prioritize predictability and transparency in our production processes. With robust equipment and proactive maintenance, we help keep projects on track and provide clear communication throughout.

Ready to Explore Smarter Injection Molding Solutions?

Whether you're developing a new product or scaling up production, our team is here to help you find the right approach. Let’s talk about how our injection molding capabilities can support your goals with reliability, flexibility, and quality.

Contact us today to start a conversation >>


Painting Wood

VIRA Insight Brings Wood Painting In-House

Smart Wood Finishing: Inside Our Automated Painting Workflow

Watch our Makor CM80 in action. See how smart sensors and precision spraying bring each fixture to life.

Our Makor Excellent CM80 machine streamlines the painting process with advanced automation and smart technology. Here’s how it works:

Dust Removal: Cut and drilled wood pieces are placed on a conveyor belt where dust is blown off for a clean surface.

Smart Spraying: Interior surfaces receive one coat of paint, while exterior/exposed areas get 2–3 coats for enhanced durability.

Sensor Precision: Sensors detect gaps and stop spraying when no wood is present, reducing paint waste.

Strategic Spacing: Pieces are spaced at least 2 inches apart to ensure full side coverage.

Ventilation System: Paint aerosols are suctioned and vented through a filtered system, keeping the workspace clean and safe.

Drying & Recoating: Painted pieces are transferred to a drying conveyor, flipped, and sent through the machine again for complete coverage.

This process allows us to paint on Day 5 and assemble and ship by Day 6, keeping your projects on schedule.

Benefits of Domestic Painting

Bringing painting in-house has unlocked several key advantages:

???? Color Accuracy: Full control over the painting process ensures consistent, brand-aligned finishes.

♻️ Reduced Waste: Painting machines has smart sensors that minimize paint usage and environmental impact.

⏱️ Accelerated production cycles: Domestic painting means quicker workflows and reliable, on-time delivery.

???? Cleaner, Safer Process: Our filtered ventilation system captures over 95% of airborne particles, and we use low-VOC paints to support healthier indoor air quality.

We’re proud to bring this capability stateside and excited to offer it to our partners. With automated painting technology and our team’s expertise, we’re setting a new standard in fixture finishing and we’re just getting started.

People + Technology = Quality

While automation handles the precision, our finishing team oversees quality control at every step. Their expertise ensures that each piece meets our exacting standards before it leaves the floor because great technology is only as good as the people behind it.

Reach out to learn how we can support your next build. >>


the future of retail spaces

Top Retail and Brand Store Design Trends for 2025

The retail industry continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, with emerging trends reshaping how businesses engage with consumers. As we enter 2025, retailers must embrace innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric strategies to stay competitive. Here are the top retail and brand store design trends that will define the industry in 2025:

1. Immersive Store Experiences

Retailers are investing in experiential store designs that captivate customers. Concepts like interactive product displays, digital walls, and sensory engagement zones create unique shopping experiences that encourage brand loyalty and increase dwell time.

2. Seamless Omnichannel Integration

Modern store designs must blend the digital and physical worlds. Smart mirrors, AI-driven customer service kiosks, and QR-code-enabled product interactions ensure a smooth transition between online browsing and in-store purchasing.

3. Sustainable Store Concepts

Eco-conscious consumers demand sustainable store designs. Retailers are integrating energy-efficient lighting, recycled materials, and zero-waste concepts into their physical spaces. Brands are also incorporating vertical gardens and natural elements to enhance aesthetics while promoting sustainability.

4. Flexible and Modular Layouts

Retail spaces are becoming more adaptable, with modular shelving, movable partitions, and convertible spaces allowing for rapid adjustments to store layouts. This flexibility caters to evolving consumer needs and seasonal product rotations.

5. Hyper-Personalized Storefronts

Technology is enabling highly personalized in-store experiences. AI-powered displays change dynamically based on customer demographics, and RFID-based smart shopping carts streamline the checkout process, offering convenience and efficiency.

6. Artistic and Boutique Aesthetics

Retailers are designing stores that reflect a brand’s unique identity through custom artwork, curated ambiance, and high-end boutique aesthetics. This shift towards more artistic, visually distinctive spaces fosters a deeper emotional connection with customers.

7. Minimalist and Functional Designs

A clean, clutter-free environment is becoming increasingly desirable. Minimalist layouts, optimized shelving, and strategic lighting enhance product visibility and provide a calming shopping experience.

8. Tech-Enhanced Shopping Journeys

Augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and interactive touchscreen displays are enhancing the in-store experience. Customers can visualize products in real-world settings or receive tailored recommendations via digital assistants.

9. Phygital Retail Spaces

Physical and digital ("phygital") stores combine the best of both worlds, offering mobile app connectivity, in-store pickup for online orders, and digital payment solutions that improve customer convenience.

10. Localized and Community-Centric Designs

Retailers are focusing on localized branding and incorporating community-driven elements in their store designs. Pop-up spaces featuring local artists, regionally inspired decor, and community engagement initiatives are gaining traction.

Conclusion

Retail and brand store designs in 2025 will focus on immersive experiences, sustainability, and seamless omnichannel integration. By embracing these trends, retailers can craft engaging and future-proof store environments that resonate with evolving consumer preferences.


Elevating Retail Experiences: A Closer Look at VIRA Insight's High-Touch Approach

In the fast-paced world of retail, creating immersive and impactful environments that resonate with customers is paramount to success. At VIRA Insight, we understand the importance of delivering custom-built retail environments that not only captivate but also elevate the overall shopping experience. Our commitment to project management excellence and high-touch client service sets us apart as a trusted partner in bringing brands to life. In this blog post, we'll delve into our unique approach and how it benefits our clients in the retail industry.

Design and Engineering Expertise

At the heart of our process lies our dedication to design and engineering excellence. Our team of talented designers and engineers works closely with clients to understand their vision, brand identity, and objectives. From concept ideation to detailed 3D modeling and prototyping, we collaborate every step of the way to ensure that the final product exceeds expectations. With our expertise in materials, manufacturing techniques, and industry trends, we bring innovation and creativity to every project we undertake.

High-Touch Client Service

What truly sets VIRA Insight apart is our high-touch client service. We understand that every client is unique, with their own set of goals, challenges, and preferences. That's why we take a personalized approach to each project, serving as an extension of our client's business and providing unparalleled support and guidance throughout the entire process. From initial consultation to project completion, our dedicated team is there every step of the way to address any concerns, provide updates, and ensure that the project stays on track and within budget.

End-to-End Project Management

One of the cornerstones of our approach is our comprehensive project management capabilities. We take pride in overseeing every aspect of the project, from design and engineering to logistics and execution. Our experienced project managers act as liaisons between our clients and our network of suppliers and vendors, coordinating timelines, managing budgets, and ensuring that all deliverables meet our high standards of quality and craftsmanship. Whether it's coordinating shipments, overseeing third-party execution, or troubleshooting unforeseen challenges, our team is committed to delivering results with precision and efficiency.

Quality Assurance and On-Time Delivery

At VIRA Insight, quality assurance is ingrained in everything we do. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of excellence, meticulously inspecting every component and assembly to ensure that it meets our stringent quality criteria. Our dedication to quality extends to on-time delivery, as we understand the importance of meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. With our robust supply chain management and logistics expertise, we ensure that our clients receive their custom-built environments on schedule and ready to make a lasting impression on their customers.

In an increasingly competitive retail landscape, VIRA Insight stands out as a trusted partner in delivering custom-built environments that elevate brands and engage customers. With our commitment to project management excellence, high-touch client service, and unwavering dedication to quality, we empower our clients to stand out in the market and achieve their business objectives. As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of retail design, we remain steadfast in our mission to create unforgettable experiences that inspire, captivate, and drive success.


The Vital Role We Play in Crafting the Consumer Shopping Experience

Introduction

In the dynamic world of retail, where every square inch of space holds the potential to captivate and convert shoppers, the role of retail environment designers and manufacturers cannot be overstated. As the creators behind the scenes, we at VIRA Insight understand the critical importance of crafting immersive, engaging, and functional retail environments that elevate the consumer shopping experience.

Let’s delve into the significance of our role in shaping the retail landscape and driving business success.

Understanding the Impact of Retail Environments

At VIRA, we recognize that the retail environment serves as the physical manifestation of a brand's identity, values, and promise. It's the first impression that greets shoppers and sets the tone for their entire shopping journey. From the layout and design of the store to the placement of fixtures and displays, every element plays a crucial role in shaping the consumer experience.

Creating Memorable Experiences

In today's hyper-competitive retail landscape, where online and offline channels converge, creating memorable experiences is essential for capturing consumers' attention and fostering brand loyalty. We strive to create spaces that go beyond mere transactions, transforming shopping trips into immersive journeys that resonate with customers on an emotional level.

Our team of talented designers and craftsmen work collaboratively with brands to bring their visions to life, ensuring that every aspect of the retail environment reflects the brand's personality and values. Whether it's through innovative display solutions, interactive digital experiences, or sustainable materials, we are committed to delivering environments that inspire, engage, and delight shoppers.

Driving Business Success

Beyond aesthetics and ambiance, retail environments have a direct impact on business performance. A well-designed and strategically executed retail space can drive foot traffic, increase dwell time, and ultimately boost sales. By optimizing layouts, maximizing visibility, and enhancing product presentation, we empower brands to create environments that encourage exploration, discovery, and purchase.

Looking Towards the Future

As consumer preferences continue to evolve and technology reshapes the retail landscape, our role as designers and manufacturers will only grow in significance. We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, embracing emerging trends, and staying ahead of the curve to deliver cutting-edge solutions that drive business success and create memorable experiences for shoppers.

Finally, at VIRA, we understand that the retail environment is more than just a physical space—it's a canvas for storytelling, a stage for engagement, and a catalyst for connection. As passionate creators and collaborators, we take pride in our role in shaping the retail landscape and empowering brands to stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace. Together, let's continue to craft experiences that inspire, excite, and leave a lasting impression on shoppers around the world.


Connecting with Care: Bright Future Ahead

Building a Brighter Future

VIRA Insight’s Connecting with Care (CwC) initiative is celebrating a milestone anniversary, its first year of engaging employees in meaningful and intentional acts of service. In this inaugural year, Connecting with Care (CwC) has thoughtfully developed a mission, chosen Genesis Women’s Shelter and Support as its partner of focus, and organized a series of successful events, all while gaining valuable insights.

The CwC committee and board are committed to creating opportunities for every VIRA employee to experience the rewarding sense of purpose, teamwork and personal growth that comes from CwC volunteering. As the initial board members complete their one year term and pass the torch to the next board, the committee is focused on building on the strong foundation established in year one.

Building on a Strong Foundation

CwC’s first year offered many lessons in organizing and executing events. CwC's Vice President, Marianne Cox noted, “We had to create a step-by-step process, with each step its own mini project, to ensure success.” The committee members learned from their hands-on experiences and used that knowledge to begin creating best practices. “I’m so grateful to everyone who helped CwC come together this year, and I’m really proud of the strong foundation the committee has built,” added Cox.

According to Cox, the “backpack kitting” event for Genesis was a turning point for CwC. After the committee worked tirelessly to secure school essentials, the team organized 60 VIRA volunteers – its largest group yet – to seamlessly assemble 100 backpacks for Genesis. Thanks to insights gained from earlier events, like the holiday toy drive, the backpack event went smoothly. The CwC team credits Genesis Director of Philanthropy Sam Daniels for fast-tracking their learning curve with his in-depth knowledge of event planning and volunteer coordination.

The committee’s goal is to grow employee participation. After each CwC event, positive word-of-mouth buzz has helped attract new participants. Formal communications to promote CwC will continue, like CwC President Skylar Delmas’s speech at the VIRA town hall. Year one volunteers can attest to the many rewards of participation: meeting new people, getting to know colleagues on a deeper level, learning skills to help Genesis and enjoying the experiences. From what volunteers say, a simple rallying call for CwC might be, “Have fun while doing good!”

Generating Buzz for Upcoming Events

The CwC committee is already planning exciting events for the future.

  • CwC is also increasing its involvement with the Genesis Thrift Store, with VIRA volunteers not only donating items but working in the store, allowing them to see their impact firsthand.
  • VIRA has sponsored Genesis Jamfest, a local concert fundraiser. The VIRA team will also attend the upcoming concert together, having fun and supporting the Genesis’ fundraising efforts.
  • This holiday season CwC will be “adopting” Genesis families to fulfill items from the wishlists of these mothers and children, helping to ensure that their holiday celebrations are brighter. The committee will use VIRA’s sponsorship funds to purchase these gifts. CwC will also be collecting gift wrap donations internally to send with the gifts.
  • Throughout the year, Genesis will continue to train VIRA employees on how to be “kitchen table ambassadors” educating friends and family about the myths of domestic violence and what Genesis’ services offers. By educating others, VIRA volunteers have the opportunity to change societal norms that support the perpetuation of abuse.

Igniting a Bright Future

As Connecting with Care enters its second year, the positive momentum has never been stronger. Armed with lessons from its first year, the committee is prepared to take on a more ambitious event schedule, as it continues its partnership with Genesis Women’s Shelter. The collaboration with Genesis has been formative for CwC, as Genesis modeled excellence in all things, including communications, problem resolution and event execution. Genesis’ openness to new ideas has inspired the committee to brainstorm creative events, while extending or deepening CwC involvement in ongoing Genesis initiatives like childcare, thrift store support, holiday drives and especially domestic violence education.

Looking ahead, CwC plans to grow its calendar with monthly events. While Genesis will remain the primary partner of CwC for the foreseeable future, CwC will again broaden its focus throughout the year to include events planned at other “pillar” causes important to VIRA employees. Whether it’s the environment, children’s welfare or food insecurity, CwC will find the best local ways for VIRA employees to contribute to the solution. As the CwC initiative grows, its future is undeniably bright with meaningful opportunities for VIRA employees to help, as they “have fun while doing good” in the community.