In a recent government meeting, officials highlighted significant initiatives aimed at fostering economic development and community engagement in the Morehead area. A key focus was the successful integration of Welcome Week and Greater Morehead Days, which has been instrumental in raising the visibility of minority-owned businesses. Over the past two years, this collaboration has showcased several local minority enterprises, including Jasmine Child Care and La Unica, providing them with a platform to connect with the community.

Derek and Greg, representatives from the West Central Initiative, discussed the revival of quarterly meetings for economic development professionals across nine counties, which had been paused during the pandemic. These gatherings aim to facilitate networking, share best practices, and address common challenges faced by communities. The meetings also emphasize the importance of housing in economic development, as providing adequate living spaces for workers is increasingly recognized as a critical component of community growth.

Additionally, a new Clay County economic development professionals meeting is set to launch, focusing on local challenges and opportunities. This initiative aims to ensure that smaller communities have a voice in the broader economic development conversation.

Rebecca, the director of development, underscored the importance of collaboration and community engagement in their efforts. She shared that the West Central Initiative has made substantial grants, totaling over $673,000 in community fund grants, which support various local projects. The organization is also launching a \"Start a Ripple\" campaign to raise awareness and funds for their initiatives, emphasizing the power of community storytelling in promoting their work.

Overall, the meeting reflected a strong commitment to enhancing economic development through community involvement and support for underrepresented businesses, signaling a proactive approach to fostering growth in the region.