By Mayor Derrick Wood | April 2025

There are moments in leadership when everything aligns—where opportunity, preparation, and purpose collide. That was the energy at this year’s African American Mayors Association (AAMA) 2025 Annual Conference, where I had the honor of spending three transformative days with my fellow Mayors from across the country.

Held under the bold and timely theme, “The Power of Now,” the conference challenged us not to wait, but to act. To lead from where we stand. To use our platforms and relationships to create real, lasting change in our communities—right now.

And that’s exactly what the Town of Dumfries, Virginia is doing.

Big Wins for Dumfries Youth and Families

At the conference, Dumfries didn’t just have a seat at the table—we left with significant victories for our young people and families.

First, I’m proud to announce that Dumfries was awarded a $75,000 grant for our local Boys & Girls Club. This funding will be used to renovate the club’s kitchen and launch a new program designed to teach young people how to grow their own food and cook healthy meals. It’s a powerful step toward health equity, sustainability, and youth empowerment.

In addition, two of our youth each received a $5,000 scholarship as part of AAMA’s national youth leadership initiative—recognizing their potential and investing in their future.

For every student who applied and put their name in the ring—thank you. For those who didn’t: don’t let the next opportunity pass you by. This is your time.

Dumfries at the Table, Not on the Menu

As Mayors, we often say, “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” And I made sure Dumfries was front and center.

Throughout the conference, I engaged in high-impact conversations about infrastructure, economic mobility, housing, climate resilience, and how we as local leaders can continue building towns that thrive—not just survive. I walked away with new partnerships, actionable strategies, and a renewed commitment to keep pushing for our community’s advancement.

In rooms filled with Mayors of cities big and small, what united us was this: we all want our communities to grow stronger, safer, and more sustainable. That takes vision, resources, and collaboration. And at AAMA, we found all three.

National Leadership on Infrastructure and Resilience

One of the highlights of the week was my role as Co-Chair of the AAMA Transportation, Infrastructure, and Resiliency Committee.

Alongside my fellow co-chairs, we crafted and introduced a federal policy resolution that calls on Congress and the White House to make meaningful investments in aging infrastructure, stormwater systems, and flood mitigation projects—especially in communities historically left behind.

We pushed for:

• Increased funding for stormwater and sewer system upgrades
• Support for resilient infrastructure in climate-vulnerable towns
• A framework for Cooperative Federalism—allowing local leaders to help shape how federal funds are allocated and implemented on the ground

This wasn’t just talk. It was a coordinated effort to influence national policy—anchored in the everyday challenges towns like Dumfries face. And I was proud to lend our voice to the movement.

What It Means for Dumfries

So what does all of this mean for us back home?

It means we’re bringing back more than photos and good memories. We’re bringing back:

• New resources for our youth and community centers
• New partnerships to support economic development
• A stronger voice in shaping the future of transportation and infrastructure

As your Mayor, I will continue to show up, speak out, and lead forward. But real progress doesn’t happen alone.

How You Can Be Part of the Movement

Now is the time to lean in. If you want to help build a stronger Dumfries, here are a few ways to get involved:

• Join a local board or commission
• Attend a Town Council meeting
• Bring your solutions to the table

We’re building a government that is responsive, transparent, and focused on results—but we can’t do it without you. The Power of Now isn’t just a conference theme—it’s a call to action for all of us.

We’ve got momentum. We’ve got vision. And with your voice, we’ve got even more power.

Let’s get to work.

With purpose and progress,

Mayor Derrick Wood

Town of Dumfries, VA