FAQ

Our Lord Jesus is the Head of RVA Light.

"And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in *everything* he might be *preeminent*." Colossians 1:18

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Board of Directors

Matthew Drabenstott - Chair

Mental health advocate with a lot of heart, Matt brings a decade of non-profit work helping vulnerable youth flourish in their schools and communities. Most recently, Matt completed his PhD exploring the role of connection in suicide prevention. He sees RVA Light’s hopeful presence as a place that is not only warm and welcoming; but a place to be seen, a place to believe in better, and a place to belong.

Beth Lansing - Vice Chair

Mother of 4 and grandmother of 14, Elizabeth retired after nearly 30 years as a Reading/English teacher and Literacy Specialist/School Administrator, working in poverty schools and special education settings. Since retirement, she has enjoyed volunteering as a Master Gardener in Ohio and making short trips to Richmond to spend time with us at RVA Light. Recently, Elizabeth has spent 4 months volunteering 3-4 days a week with us. Beth especially appreciates the Faith-Based motivation for our mission and enjoys doing daily Bible Studies with our friends and Neighbors.

Todd Lindeblad - Secretary

Husband and father of four young children, Todd is the co-owner of Lindeblad Piano Restoration & Lindeblad School of Music. The pressures of life have driven him to learn to lean on Jesus. Todd wants to help RVA Light spread the gospel which he believes is all about the Lord Jesus, loving your neighbors, bearing one another's burdens, and waiting for the revelation of the Lord Jesus to set up God's Kingdom on earth.

Sarah Sanders - Treasurer

Sarah was born and raised in Ontario, Canada and now lives in NW Arkansas with her husband Stuart. She has 13 years of banking experience and is currently a Senior Vice President of Treasury Management at Arvest Bank. She is working towards a Business Management degree at the University of Arkansas and is glad she's able to put her banking experience to use at RVA Light. Sarah is very appreciative of the "on the ground" work that is being done by the many volunteers and hopes to be able to get involved in that way soon.

Shanny McQueen

Shanny holds a bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering and previously worked as a liaison between the technical and sales teams, thriving in roles that required constant networking. She first volunteered at RVA Light in 2023 while visiting from Germany and was captivated by the vibrant, Jesus-serving spirit and practical, compassionate work being done. Though living abroad, she returned whenever possible and joined the board in September 2024, supporting RVA Light remotely. After moving to Richmond in February 2025, Shanny began volunteering daily and now assists the director, Sam—who is also her fiancé—in any way she can. As a board member, she is passionate about expanding RVA Light’s reach, shining Jesus’ light further, and strengthening relationships with the incredible neighbors. Shanny is deeply grateful to be part of this fantastic organization, walking alongside others in love and service.

Samuel Sturgeon

Sam has a deep passion for people and treasures building relationships, especially with those in need. His ability to relate to others and perceive their needs made him a successful salesman, selling cars, houses, landscaping services, and insurance. However, his desire to do something meaningful—sharing the love of Jesus and His transformative power—led him to RVA Light. After working for RVA Light for a year in 2022, Sam became the executive director in October 2024, seamlessly taking over from Rachel Ruiz. As a servant leader, he works tirelessly for the community and neighbors, offering care, compassion, and hands-on help to improve their situations. Through his work, Sam continually seeks to inspire others and shine the light of Jesus.

We do not provide professional counseling or case managment services. RVA Light offers our neighbors social support and connections to professional and clinical resources in our community. We try to be "good neighbors" by offering assistance with navigating technology, setting up appointments, using the phone, and filling out paperwork. None of what we do is clinical, however a number of our staff are trained in Mental Health First Aid.

RVA Light Inc is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation and exempt from federal income tax. Donors may be eligable to deduct contributions they make under IRC Section 70. We are also qualified to receive tax deductible bequests, devices, transfers or gifts under section 2055, 2106, or 2522.