The Revitalize and Thrive initiative has announced the selection of five Nebraska communities – Southeast Omaha, Cozad, Auburn, McCook, and Seward to participate in an innovative partnership focused on community revitalization and youth retention.
These communities will collaborate with nationally recognized revitalization strategist Jeff Siegler, along with regional leaders and student interns, to develop strategies that strengthen local identity, foster economic vibrancy, and create a more compelling reason for young people to stay, return or relocate to their hometowns.
Tackling Nebraska’s Brain Drain
The Revitalize and Thrive program addresses one of Nebraska’s longstanding challenges: brain drain, the outmigration of young talent from rural and urban areas alike. Through a blend of creative placemaking, local leadership development and community engagement, the initiatitve empowers communities to write their own “revival stories.”
“McCook is proud to be one of five communities selected for this first-of-its-kind program in Nebraska. Today’s economic development looks different than it once did—it requires a multi-faceted approach and a willingness to wear many hats as we work to grow and strengthen our Nebraska communities. In addition to our traditional focus on business attraction, expansion, and retention, childcare, and housing, much of our work now centers on attracting and retaining people — a conversation happening across many local groups and organizations. This initiative builds on those local conversations and will help us take our efforts to the next level, said Amanda Engell, Director of Housing Development at McCook Economic Development Corporation.
“Revitalize and Thrive is an investment in Cozad’s economic future. Cozad hopes to strengthen our position as a place of opportunity that attracts entrepreneurs and young professionals. We also hope by reinventing and creating vibrant spaces in the community it creates an identity where community pride can flourish,” added Jen McKeone, Executive Director of Cozad Development Corporation.
Building for the Next Generation
Through site visits, hands-on workshops, and guided implementation plans, each community will explore practical strategies to revitalize their downtowns, enhance quality of life, and expand opportunities for the next generation.
“Auburn is excited to have been selected to participate in the Revitalize and Thrive program. Our community has made strides in recent years to make improvements to resources available for residents and local businesses. This process is a unique opportunity to continue that work by building strategies to support entrepreneurs and attract young professionals to our workforce.” Said Crystal Dunekacke, Auburn City Administrator/Economic Developer.
The initiative is supported by local and state partners, reflecting Nebraska’s growing commitment to invest in its communities’ future.
“This is about more than revitalization,” said Jeff Siegler of Reviatlize or Die. “It’s about building places that people are proud to call home and never want to leave.”
The City of Cozad. City of Auburn, and City of Seward are Wholesale Customers of Nebraska Public Power District.
McCook is a Retail Customer of Nebraska Public Power District.