Professional Remodeling Organization of Central Virginia is a membership organization for residential contractors, designers, wood workers, closet organizers, marble and granite installers, electricians, HVAC, plumbing, and many other specialty trades. Short Pump City Lifestyle recently met with PRO Central VA’s executive director, Sherry Minson, and a few of their members to learn about their organization and the benefits they offer.
“PRO Central VA has been in the Richmond market for 21 years as a nonprofit trade association for remodeling professionals,” says Sherry. “We provide networking, continuing education, advocacy, and recognition.”
Member Chase Loomer appreciates the valuable networking opportunities afforded to his residential renovation and addition business, Cardiff Custom Construction, through their membership with PRO Central Virginia. “We have been able to build and strengthen relationships with fellow members that are striving to improve the quality of their businesses daily,” says Chase. “Through networking events and educational events, we are able to stay on the cutting edge of our industry.”
Charles Shade is a fellow member and owner of the residential design firm, C. L. Shade Drafting. He has found many benefits in the shared knowledge that members can offer one another as they work toward creative solutions to best serve their clients. “Membership has allowed me to engage other builders and designers in my area that see the same style and type of homes, especially older, and has always been an outstanding sounding board for questions and solutions to common problems,” explains Charles. “The members involved are willing to use their knowledge and experience to help those other members that may need it from time to time.” PRO Board member, Kyle Hendrick, at Custom Kitchens agrees, “Being a member provides us with the opportunity to work with people who think the way we do, including new perspectives on how to tackle similar problems in a different way.”
Charles’ involvement with PRO Central Virginia led him to also become part of their Board of Directors where he has served for the past 10 years helping organize member education and networking events. One such event is the annual PRO Central VA Contractor of the Year Awards. “The PRO Awards offer members the opportunity to compete in categories to demonstrate the amazing craftsmanship in home additions, bath and kitchen remodels, and more,” shares Sherry. Custom Kitchens was one of their winners in 2022. “Being nominated and winning the PRO Awards gives us exposure to potential clients and highlights the quality of our design and installation work,” says Kyle.
Are you interested in membership? Joining is simple! “First, the potential member applies for membership with PRO,” explains Sherry. “Then, we do a background check on the business. Next, the findings are presented to our governing board of directors and, if it meets with their approval, membership is granted.” This process helps PRO Central Virginia ensure that every one of their members have been vetted and are a reliable resource for both their fellow members and homeowners in need of services. This is one of the many advantages of using PRO Central VA for referrals over sites like Yelp or Angie’s List. Like most associations, dues are paid annually and go toward funding their educational resources and networking events provided exclusively for members.
Choosing a qualified contractor can be stressful for homeowners. With so many home improvement companies, products, and suppliers, it can be hard to know who to trust or even where to start! Thankfully, PRO Central VA isn’t only for professional organizations; It also serves as a resource for homeowners. “We offer a section on our website with advice on finding and hiring a contractor,” says Sherry. This simplifies the process for homeowners and gives them relief knowing that anyone approved by PRO Central Virginia is going to be trustworthy and reliable.
PRO Central Virginia participates in the annual Richmond Home and Garden Show which is scheduled to take place on March 3-5 and the Richmond Home Show on October 20-22, 2023. Both events will be at the Richmond Raceway Complex. Come on out to learn about proper practices for contractors and how to protect yourself when hiring a contractor.
Learn more at: procentralvirginia.org
Pg 2:
LEFT: Office break out space by Kathy Corbet Interiors is inviting and colorful.
MIDDLE: Spare room gets a modern refresh and workspace by Kathy Corbet Interiors.
RIGHT: Luxury bathroom renovation with frameless glass shower by Leo Lantz Construction.
Pg 4:
ROW 1
LEFT: Living room had outdated finishes, poor lighting, and no storage.
RIGHT: Upgraded finishes, brick surround fireplace, and built-in storage by Cardiff Custom Construction.
ROW 2
LEFT: Kitchen and dining were outdated and disconnected with little storage or workspace.
RIGHT: Open plan kitchen and dining with modern farmhouse style by Paragon Construction.
ROW 3
LEFT: Worn wooden decking, railings, and lattice work limited outdoor living areas.
RIGHT: Resilient decking with cable railing system by Deck Creations provide more space.
ROW 4
LEFT: Old-fashioned separate kitchen and dining rooms were disjointed and inefficient.
RIGHT: Expanded kitchen into dining to make a large, updated eat-in kitchen by Custom Kitchens.
“PRO has provided us with exposure to a wider market, including marketing and networking. Custom Kitchens has hosted events for the launch of new products and membership meetings at our showroom.” - Kyle Hendrick