GVL Connect - Oct

Welcome to GVL Connect ✨— an event all about breaking bread, breaking barriers, and making authentic connections. ✨ Welcome to GVL Connect — Sip, Learn, + Connect! ✨ This isn’t your typical networking event — it’s about breaking bread, breaking barriers, and building real community. 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. 🌟 What to Expect 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. Event Organizer—Joanna Reese 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 ask Joanna. If she doesn't know the answer, she'll find out who does! Sponsor of the Month 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! Non Profit of the Month May 2026: Upstate LGBT+ Chamber Apr 2026: Greater Good Greenville 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. Tickets + Inclusions — $0 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. Please consider making a donation towards the cost of food and drinks if you're able.