Mission
The mission of Roslindale Village Main Street (RVMS) is to promote Roslindale Village as an appealing destination and the dynamic center of our community. As a nonprofit organization, we bring together local volunteers, businesses and public agencies to strengthen the Village's economic vitality, physical appearance and unique local character.

Who We Are
Roslindale Village Main Street is a community-driven and governed volunteer organization with one paid employee. We are Roslindale residents, business owners, and property owners with a common stake in supporting a vibrant and healthy neighborhood business district. We rely on participation from countless volunteers to provide the programs, services and events that help make Roslindale a great place to live and work. Learn more about how you can get involved.

History
RVMS was established in 1985 as the first urban Main Street Program in the nation, with the help of then City Councilor Thomas M. Menino and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Within its first three years, the RVMS Program achieved great success in revitalizing Roslindale Village, with 33 facade changes, 43 commercial building rehabilitations, 29 net new businesses, and 132 net job gains-totaling over $5 million in new investments.

Today, Roslindale Village is a thriving commercial hub, with vacancies below 5 percent and over 90% of businesses independently owned. More than 3/4 of businesses in the district have participated in RVMS' design, promotions and economic development programs. Roslindale Village Main Street received a National Main Streets Urban Pioneer Award in 2006 for its revitalization efforts.

Philosophy
RVMS follows the operating principles of the National Main Street Center. The Main Street Approach advocates a return to community self-reliance, local empowerment, and the rebuilding of traditional commercial districts based on their unique assets: distinctive architecture, a pedestrian-friendly environment, personal service, local ownership, and a sense of community. Harnessing the efforts of local volunteers builds long-term success by fostering community involvement and commitment to a shared vision for the neighborhood.