The Virtual Empowerment Zone: A Digital Solution for Health Equity

At the Gregory B. Davis Foundation, we believe in community-driven solutions to long-standing challenges. That’s why we are proud to support Niasha Fray, a 2024 Makers Resident, in her efforts to bring the Virtual Empowerment Zone (VEZ) to life. The VEZ is designed to empower residents of the Roanoke Valley by providing a platform to connect, advocate, and engage.



Through multiple community feedback and feasibility testing sessions, we have gathered insights directly from residents of Halifax and Northampton Counties, who have expressed a strong desire for a platform that bridges gaps in healthcare, digital literacy, and advocacy. The VEZ will offer tools to share resources, track community issues, and mobilize efforts to improve health outcomes.

Watch this video to learn more about the vision for the VEZ and how you can support this initiative. 

Help us bring this project to fruition.

We are seeking funding partners who share our vision for a healthier, more equitable Roanoke Valley. To learn more about how you can contribute, please contact us at gbdf@gbdf.org.

Community Outreach and Education

Covering health areas such as nutrition, fitness, prostate and breast cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, HIV/AIDS, linkage to care and patient navigation.

Formation of Ongoing Partnerships and Collaborations

With entities having complimentary missions, goals and desired outcomes. GBDF has partnered with over 200 organizations, institutions, municipalities, and agencies.