CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – February 2, 2026 –
Bennett’s Village, a non-profit dedicated to building a multigenerational, all-abilities playspace at Pen Park in Charlottesville, is excited to announce that we have hired April Garrison Straus as our first Director of Development. April was selected after a competitive hiring process and brings a strong background in nonprofit fundraising, community engagement, major gifts, and event planning at several nonprofits including The McShin Foundation; the National Kitten Coalition; and Tennis4Life, which she founded in 2009.
Bennett’s Village Board Chair Kate Chirico shared that April’s “enthusiasm, entrepreneurial spirit, and clear dedication to Bennett’s Village stood out immediately.” During her interview process, April shared that the mission of Bennett’s Village spoke to her because she “believes deeply in the power of inclusive spaces” and the “importance of play, joy, and belonging for all families.” She looks forward to partnering with the Bennett’s Village Board, supporters, and the broader community to help grow the Village in ways that are thoughtful, sustainable, and true to our mission.
Outside of work, April is a mom of two adult (and, in her mind, perfect) children. She can rarely be found without a little cat hair on her clothes; has no interest in coffee, but will happily accept an icy glass of Coca Cola; and enjoys listening to live music with good company.
If you would like to send a message of welcome, April can be reached at april@bennettsvillage.org.
For more information on how you can help Bennett’s Village make Charlottesville a place where all can play, visit us online at bennettsvillage.org. You can also find us on Instagram @BennettsVillage.