Free Press staff report 

As Richmond neighborhoods face ongoing challenges related to housing, health and public safety, the city is expanding its approach to community engagement through new leadership and specialized offices.

The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) has added several new positions this summer as part of a broader effort to strengthen outreach to priority populations. Some of the new hires will lead newly created offices within NCS. 

Greg Hopkins, previously announced, now heads the Office of Gun Violence Prevention. Additional appointments include Anna Jones as the city’s Opioid Response Strategist, Alyson Saylors as Manager of Homeless Services and Aneesah Smith, who began Monday as the Equity and LGBTQIA+ Liaison. 

“These new roles and offices within the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services strengthen our ability to listen, respond and partner with Richmonders, especially those who have too often been overlooked,” Mayor Danny Avula said in a statement. 

“Whether we’re supporting families, addressing public health crises or strengthening neighborhood leadership, our goal is always to build relationships rooted in trust, equity and action,” said Tiffany Ford, director of NCS. 

The new additions join a department already overseeing several initiatives, including the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Experience, Office of Aging and Disability Services, Office of Children and Families, Office of Neighborhood Engagement and Office of Homeless Services.