Virginia-Highland Civic Association (VHCA) was founded in 1971 by Joseph (Joe) Drolet and others with the mission to defeat the construction of the Interstate 485 through the neighborhood. As the Virginia-Highland Civic Association's charter states -  VHCA's purpose is "the promotion and the furtherance of the common good, general welfare and interests of residents of The Virginia-Highland."

Today, through the association VaHi residents coordinate matters including planning and zoning, safety, park maintenance and renovation, communications, preservation and history, community events and fundraising, traffic, sidewalks, and parking.

All of the money raised by VHCA throughout the year, including Summerfest and Tour of Homes, goes directly back into the community. For 2022, this was at a rate of 93% of every dollar raised.

Funds raised enable VHCA to maintain North Highland Park, augment the maintenance of our 3 City of Atlanta parks in the neighborhood (Orme, The Triangle, and John Howell Park), advocate for the neighborhood in regard to various zoning questions, and support the implementation of the VHCA Master Plan projects. Funds raised are also redistributed through our annual grant process to applicants that include local schools, churches, synagogues, and non-profits.