Richmond adds new city offices and staff members to support neighborhood and community engagement

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The City of Richmond has added new offices and staff members to support neighborhood and community engagement.

According to a city spokesperson, new offices and staff members include the following:  

• Greg Hopkins leading the newly formed Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
• Anna Jones joins the city as the Opioid Response Strategist for the Office of Opioid and Substance Use Response.
• Aneesah Smith will begin her tenure as the Equity and LGBTQIA+ Liaison on Aug. 11, 2025.
• Alyson Saylors has been named Manager of Homeless Services.

The spokesperson said these new arrivals will contribute to efforts across the city’s Neighborhood Services offices, including the following:

• Office of Immigrant and Refugee Experience
• Office of Aging and Disability Services
• Office of Children and Families
• Office of Neighborhood Engagement
• Office of Homeless Services

The new hires will reportedly advance the city's effort to "work closely for and alongside priority populations and neighborhoods" under the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.

“This investment in our Human Services team reflects a deep commitment to building a city where every neighborhood — and every neighbor — can thrive,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “The addition of these new roles and offices within the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services strengthens our ability to listen, respond, and partner with Richmonders, especially those who have too often been overlooked. Whether it’s gun violence prevention, opioid response, or ensuring LGBTQIA+ equity, these efforts are about more than service delivery—they’re about showing up, building trust, and working together to create a more connected and compassionate Richmond.”