Using her background in emergency services and environmental science, Kara Robertson has been appointed as the new Community Development Planner for the Commonwealth Regional Council (CRC).

The position of Community Development Planner was previously held by Andre V. Gilliam.

CRC Executive Director Melody Foster said Robertson’s background, particularly with fire and rescue agencies, will serve projects in the community.

Robertson, a Farmville native and Fuqua School graduate, was previously a full time Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for the Prince Edward Volunteer Rescue Squad and has worked with the Hampden-Sydney Volunteer Fire Department.

Robertson graduated from Hollins University with degrees in biology and environmental science, taking night classes to become an EMT.

Robertson started in the position as Community Development Planner on Monday, Aug. 5.

She said the majority of community projects she is currently working on are focused on Emergency Medical Services and issues related to the environment.

She said she is excited to use her skills to help projects move forward.

“I’m getting to learn a lot about the local area,” Robertson said. “Things I didn’t realize were here, and needs I didn’t realize were out here as well.”

Robertson lives in Crewe, and in her spare time recently began volunteering with the Nottoway Volunteer Fire Department.

The CRC offers grant writing services to local government agencies, schools, nonprofit organizations and fire, law enforcement and rescue agencies. It also assists area agencies on developing projects relating to repairing infrastructure, getting funding for community programs, getting funding for equipment for fire and rescue agencies and updating government information such as a locality’s comprehensive plan.

To contact Robertson, she can be reached at krobertson@ virginiasheartland.org or (434) 392-6104.