From Buford, Wyoming that has a population of 1, to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that has a population of 1.6 million, cities and towns all struggle, thrive, and grow together. But how exactly do cities and towns get through their struggles to reach a place where residents and visitors can live harmonious and prosperous lives?
Let’s get real. We all struggle and struggle never goes away. But, if you are a town or city that feels you are struggling more then you should be, then there is a chance that your town or city is in need of a change, or changes.
Deciding what your town, city, or community needs may be overwhelming as it may need multiple adjustments. Below is a list of questions to ask your fellow community members to begin an analysis of your community’s needs.
Who are we?
If you do not know who your community is, how will others? A town, county, township, borough, parish, city, etc.? People want to know who exactly you are and what makes you unique.
- Who are the people who reside in your community?
- Who are the people who visit your community?
Answering this question will help you understand what type of people enjoy the area in which they live and visit.
What does your community do?
Modern and past history play large roles in discovering what your community did when it first became a community and what it does today. We have explored numerous small towns in the United States that have once started as a mining or lumbering town. Some of these towns are now technological hubs and leading towns of their areas. Some towns we have visited were ghost towns where people settled and then moved away leaving only the buildings as a remembrance of what was. These towns are now state parks with old west history and have been transformed into a destination for others to learn, explore, and experience. What your town did in the past matters for your town’s present and future. Connect your past to your present and create a future for your residents and your visitors.
What draws people to your community? Is there a unique feature, or business that draws in the crowds, or is it nature’s beauty? What makes people want to come to your Smalltown, USA? Make a list, create your goals, set a plan of action, and then, take action!
Why does your community do what it does?
Why do you want to draw people in to your community? Your historical museum? Your annual community event? Your goal might be to increase awareness of your community and what is has to offer new community members or those looking to visit your community. Is it to speak to others on a personal level? Maybe to educate others on the past? Why your community does what it does is just as important as who you is. Speaking of goals…
Make a goal.
“This year, we wish to generate XYZ revenue from tourism.” What is your goal? Do you want to create more of a haven for your community members to enjoy living in your community? Creating reachable, measurable goals will bring great joy when you see the fruits of your labor enacted and working.
Breathe.
There is much to think about, and it may seem like a daunting task.
Think outside of the box. Let your creativity flourish.
The possibilities are endless.