Nature • Culture • Community

Working to Make the Blue Ridge Even Better

Serving Communities in Virginia and North Carolina

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge

Through volunteerism, giving and partnerships, FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge enhances the natural and ecological beauty, cultural vitality, and quality of life in Blue Ridge communities.

Fostering Blue Ridge Communities

We invest in projects and programs to make the places we live even better.

Support Blue Ridge People

We inspire tomorrow’s generation through our scholarships and grants.

Promoting Blue Ridge Culture

We nurture our region’s distinctive music, arts, heritage and way of life.

Blue Ridge License Plate

Join the 10,000+ Virginia motorists who have purchased our specialty license plate and help us build a better community throughout Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Membership & Giving

Members of Friends of the Blue Ridge and their generosity are an essential part of fulfilling our mission. From individual memberships to corporate giving, we are appreciative of your support.

Interested in helping?

Volunteer

Whether you want to volunteer with a group or as an individual, FRIENDS has a place for you.

Concert Series

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge – in partnership with the historic Glencoe Mansion & Museum in Radford – will host “The Glencoe Sessions,” on first Fridays from September to December 2025 featuring Addie Levy and the Avalanche, Caitlin Krisko Trio, Newfound Gap and Highland Reverie. FRIENDS will also host our Blue Ridge Holler hurricane relief concert on Nov. 21 at the Wortham Center in Asheville. Stay tuned for details!

Healthier, Safer Communities

Bike Racks

Join us in our newest venture: customized bike racks to support recreational opportunities and eco-tourism! To date, FRIENDS has funded the fabrication and installation of nearly 40 bike racks in the cities of Roanoke and Salem, Roanoke County, Botetourt County and Roanoke College. Our bike racks provide residents and visitors an attractive means to secure their bicycles and promote a more eco-friendly form of transportation.