Why Your Donation Matters
The Friends of St. Luke, Odd Fellows, & Household of Ruth preserves the often overlooked African American history of Blacksburg and the surrounding region by providing the contextual history of the last remaining structure from a historic Black neighborhood. Rooted in community, this work honors the people, places, and traditions that shaped our shared past and ensures these vital stories are documented and passed on.
Your support makes this work possible. Donations sustain the care and curation of our growing collection, support the development of educational programs and virtual exhibits, and bring this history to life through community outreach and public history initiatives that connect neighbors, families, and generations.
Gifts
Gifts of any size are greatly appreciated. At this time, contributions are kindly accepted by check as we work toward expanding our online giving options.
Please address the check and mail to Friends of St Luke, Odd Fellows & Household of Ruth
2106 4th Street, Radford, Virginia 24141
email: colab@FriendsOfStLukeOddFellows.org
Get Involved
We welcome volunteers, educators, researchers, and community members who want to help tell and share these important stories. As a new and growing organization, we are beginning to organize projects we plan to accomplish in 2026, and there are many ways to get involved.
Research & Discovery
Much of the history of this community and its historic sites has not yet been discovered, researched, or shared publicly. While primary sources can be elusive, valuable materials exist within local institutions, including the local courthouse. If you enjoy sleuthing, sorting through records, and uncovering overlooked histories, this is a meaningful way to contribute.
Community Events & Outreach
We will participate in five to six public community events and welcome volunteers who enjoy meeting the public, engaging families, and helping host child-centered craft activities.
Educational Programming
Each January, in celebration of Black History Month, we bring our “Build a Maggie L. Walker” bank to local elementary schools. Volunteers share her story as the first woman and African American to serve as president of a bank, inspiring students while teaching important lessons about history, leadership, economics and community.
Public History & Special Events
We host public history lectures and a Plein Air event throughout the year and can always use help with event support, coordination, and outreach.
Student Engagement
We hope to offer an essay contest for high school students in the fall and welcome assistance with planning, promotion, and review.
If you are interested in participating in any of these activities, we would love to hear from you.
