GVL Connect - May

NOTE: This month is extra special as we partner with the Upstate LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce for their monthly networking event. Expect the room to be a bit more full and colorful this month.

Each month in Greenville, we gather as one community to shake hands, learn from each other, ask questions, and grow authentic connections with other locals.

And as our city continues to grow, so does the importance of staying connected—not just socially, but civically.

First of all — parking is free at Venture X, with a large, paved, well-lit lot for easy access.

After check-in, grab a drink, snack on charcuterie, and start making meaningful connections. If you're an art lover (or a nervous introvert), feel free to wander and enjoy the local artwork displayed gallery-style throughout Venture X.

Around 6:30, our Nonprofit of the Month will share about their impact right here in our community.

Then we transition into what makes GVL Connect unique: Joanna will lead a thought-provoking, interactive discussion. In 2026, our conversations are centered around a single American value—one we often assume we all understand. But do we?

Together, we’ll explore what that value really means… and how the same value can lead people to very different perspectives, choices, and outcomes.

You’ll be joined by a diverse mix of attendees—including local residents, business owners, and civic leaders from across the Upstate—all coming together to better understand one another. Because while we’re exploring American values, we’re also uncovering something closer to home:

👉 What are Greenville’s values?
👉 What makes this community so special?

Afterward, stick around to continue the conversation, deepen connections, sign up with the featured nonprofit, and enjoy another plate before we wrap up around 8:00 PM.

Joanna Reese initially launched the GVL Connect event series in 2016 after relocating her marketing agency to Greenville from her hometown of Hendersonville, NC. Nearly a decade and a career change later, Joanna is still a community connector, promoting small businesses, elevating nonprofits, and advocating for others through her role in local government. She is also a full-time realtor committed to strengthening our community.

Need to find an answer to something in GVL, just. If she doesn't know the answer, she'll find out who does!

Joanna Reese, REALTOR

For every home sold, Joanna donates $500 to a local nonprofit, such as those featured at GVL Connect.

If you know of an incredible nonprofit serving Upstate SC, let us know so we can support them too!

May 2026: Upstate LGBT+ Chamber

Apr 2026:

Mar 2026: Rebuild Upstate

Feb 2026: Greenville Co. Boards + Commissions (Spring Openings)

Jan 2026: Greenville Human Society

Nov/Dec 2025: Loaves + Fishes

October 2025: Friends of the Reedy River

September 2025: Greenville Co. Boards + Commissions

August 2025: Julie Valentine Center.

Surprise! We no longer charge for tickets, because we truly believe everyone's voice should be included in these conversations. Finances should never restrict someone's access to local community.

We provide a large spread for everyone, which typically includes meats, cheeses, dips, veggies, wine, beer, coffee, and more.

At the event, please consider making a donation towards the cost of food and drinks if you're able.

Info: Our group conversation typically engages everyone, sparking dozens of side conversations. After the program wraps up, grab another plate of food and make some great connections before we wrap up at 8:00.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Joanna Reese, 864 Realtor