Saying "Yes" to Progress

It has been a full year since I left my position with the Chamber of Commerce in Concordia. It had always been a dream of mine to work for my home town helping with economic growth and business retention. Partnered alongside Cloud Corp, the Chamber had a unique position to make some big steps towards progress. During my time there I sat on multiple boards, but the biggest most exciting piece to the pie was the Broadway Plaza.

I check-in almost daily on Concordia. I read social media, CCCC meeting minutes, city commission minutes and even the Blade Empire. Kansas City is home to many Concordia graduates. Almost once a week I am running into someone who is excited to say “yes” about their home town. They ask me questions about the Broadway Plaza, the City Park, the Pros of Con, and more. They are so impressed with the community’s outlook on progress. It often ends with a statement of “I am now considering moving back.”

While employment is a huge factor in city growth, I want to argue it is not the most important. The next wave of entrepreneurs and professionals are looking for lifestyle. Most jobs now can be worked remotely or can be launched anywhere, so they look for where they can have the best life for their kids and families. How could you not say “yes” to a community investing in itself. Business comes and goes, that is a way of life but a true movement towards internal development not only says yes but shouts it. Yes we are small but we are great. We are where you want to be, where you want to work, and where you want to raise your kids. Concordia is a town of “Yes.”