In many small towns, the conversation about growth tends to revolve around infrastructure, jobs, and attracting outside investment. But one of the most powerful—and often overlooked—assets is already there: local creativity.  When communities tap into their artistic talent, they don’t just beautify spaces—they build identity, pride, and a shared sense of belonging. From Empty Spaces to Shared Places Arts-led development has a unique way of transforming the everyday landscape. A blank wall becomes a storytelling canvas. An empty lot turns into a gathering space. A quiet alley evolves into a destination. In Mount Sterling, Kentucky, the Gateway Regional Arts Center has demonstrated just how impactful this approach can be. Through initiatives like a public art trail and the vibrant Umbrella Alley installation, the town has reimagined its public spaces. These projects didn’t just appear overnight. Each mural, sculpture, and installation added visibility, drew in visitors, and strength...

When organizations talk about employee volunteerism, the conversation usually sounds the same: organized service days, nonprofit partnerships, and hours logged in a tracking system. That model matters—but it’s incomplete. What often goes unrecognized is that some of the most impactful forms of volunteerism are happening informally, right outside people’s front doors. It’s time to expand how we define volunteerism—and in doing so, unlock a more inclusive, accessible, and powerful way for employees to contribute. Volunteerism Is Bigger Than We Think At its core, volunteerism is simple: freely choosing to help others.  But globally, most volunteer activity doesn’t happen through formal programs. It’s informal, relational, and hyper-local. It looks like: Checking in on a neighbor going through a tough time Bringing meals to a family in transition Helping with childcare or errands Clearing snow, mowing lawns, or sharing tools Hosting gatherings that bring people together These acts are ...

Let me start with a simple question. How many of you know the names of the people who live directly next door to you? Not just what they look like… but their names. Now—how many of you know something about their lives? What they do, what they care about, what’s going on with them? Here’s what’s interesting. We live closer to people than ever before. Our homes are packed into neighborhoods, apartment complexes, subdivisions… we’re surrounded by people. And yet, many of us feel more disconnected than ever. At the same time, a lot of people want to make a difference. We want to help, to contribute, to do something meaningful. So we often think: ‘I need to go somewhere. I need to sign up for something. I need to add something to my schedule.’ But what if the most meaningful, lasting way to make an impact… isn’t somewhere else? What if it’s right outside your front door?” CORE IDEA I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about this idea, and I wrote a book called Neighborhood Missio...

  Neighboring isn’t just a suburban experiment or a nostalgic idea tied to front porches and cul-de-sacs. It’s just as relevant—and just as powerful—in rural spaces. Wide-open land doesn’t automatically create strong relationships. In fact, sometimes distance, independence, and long-standing routines can make connection even less likely. And contrary to popular belief, this isn’t a “younger generation problem.” It’s easy to assume that technology or shifting cultural norms have made younger people less neighborly. But in reality, the hesitation to engage with those living nearby spans generations. Avoidance, assumptions, and quiet judgment are not new habits—they just show up in different ways. I was reminded of this at a recent community cookout. I found myself seated with a group of people I didn’t know. Before long, the conversation turned toward a nearby landowner who had begun lining his fence with old tires. The tone quickly shifted from curiosity to criticism.  So...

Missouri’s rural electric cooperatives have always been rooted in community. Built by neighbors, for neighbors, co-ops are uniquely positioned to bring people together in meaningful ways. That’s why Missouri Good Neighbor Week presents such a natural opportunity. Not just as a marketing moment, but as a chance to reinforce the cooperative difference. Here are a few ideas of how co-ops can turn Missouri Good Neighbor Week into something impactful for both their brand and their members. 1. Tell the Co-op Story Through Real Neighbors Any time of years is a good time to highlight the people behind the meter. Instead of focusing on infrastructure or rates, shift the spotlight to members: Feature short stories of members helping members Share interviews with lineworkers who go above and beyond Highlight multi-generational co-op families These stories work well across social media, newsletters, and local press—and they reinforce the idea that the co-op isn’t ju...