#believeboonecounty
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Vision, planning, resources, collaboration, adaptability and tenacity are the heart of every successful small town.
In 2016, leaders across Boone County embarked on a planning process comprising hundreds of hours of formal and informal discussions about concerns, hopes and expectations for Boone County’s future.
This inclusive dialogue was the catalyst needed to create a steering committee comprised of members of our business, industry, education, government and nonprofit sectors. Out of these efforts, #believeboonecounty was born to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities confronting our region and develop a comprehensive forward looking strategy for sustainable growth and improvements. Four over-arching areas of focus (listed as Pillars) became clear. These Pillars embody the priorities, initiatives and desires of our community. (1) Advancing the Region’s Economy, (2) Developing, Retaining and Acquiring a Talented Workforce, (3) Enhancing Quality of Life and Place and building an identity for our region that (4) Tells Our Story construct a sturdy framework for moving forward.
Distressing statistics and dismaying national news often paint rural America in crisis and on the verge
of collapse. Global economic forces, consolidation of vital resources and socio-economic shifts batter
the economies, identities and social structures of our small communities. This work is not easy and the
need for regional planning, collaboration and the redefinition of investment and community value can be
overwhelming. Nevertheless, Boone County has rejected that dismal pattern to become a “crossroads” where innovative ideas are converging, local institutions are collaborating and the community definition of “we” and “they” include special attention to diversity and inclusion. Past efforts have brought us to where we are today and we continue to collaborate and nurture efforts throughout our community to grow our region.
The commitment of #believeboonecounty sets the tone by establishing the collective vision across our county. The strength, tenacity and adaptability of the community conveys the message that Boone County is taking ownership of its future.
In 2016, leaders across Boone County embarked on a planning process comprising hundreds of hours of formal and informal discussions about concerns, hopes and expectations for Boone County’s future.
This inclusive dialogue was the catalyst needed to create a steering committee comprised of members of our business, industry, education, government and nonprofit sectors. Out of these efforts, #believeboonecounty was born to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities confronting our region and develop a comprehensive forward looking strategy for sustainable growth and improvements. Four over-arching areas of focus (listed as Pillars) became clear. These Pillars embody the priorities, initiatives and desires of our community. (1) Advancing the Region’s Economy, (2) Developing, Retaining and Acquiring a Talented Workforce, (3) Enhancing Quality of Life and Place and building an identity for our region that (4) Tells Our Story construct a sturdy framework for moving forward.
Distressing statistics and dismaying national news often paint rural America in crisis and on the verge
of collapse. Global economic forces, consolidation of vital resources and socio-economic shifts batter
the economies, identities and social structures of our small communities. This work is not easy and the
need for regional planning, collaboration and the redefinition of investment and community value can be
overwhelming. Nevertheless, Boone County has rejected that dismal pattern to become a “crossroads” where innovative ideas are converging, local institutions are collaborating and the community definition of “we” and “they” include special attention to diversity and inclusion. Past efforts have brought us to where we are today and we continue to collaborate and nurture efforts throughout our community to grow our region.
The commitment of #believeboonecounty sets the tone by establishing the collective vision across our county. The strength, tenacity and adaptability of the community conveys the message that Boone County is taking ownership of its future.
Organizer and beneficiary
#believe boonecounty
Organizer
Harrison, AR
Patty Methvin
Beneficiary
