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If you build it, they will come, so why not dream big? Join us to learn about an innovative approach developed by the Michigan Bureau of Community Action and Economic Opportunity (BCEAO) that is reclaiming empty store fronts to serve rural families and communities. Vacant outlet and strip mall spaces are being repurposed to deliver and coordinate community resources including Weatherization and LIHEAP assistance, emergency services, food and nutrition support, and other CSBG funded programs while building trust and strengthening local connections.

Partners on these pilot projects include laundry services, home goods retailers, and human service providers, but it isn’t hard to imagine a future where local farmers and grocers, barbers and hair cutting businesses and skilled tradespeople could be added to the mix. Where might a place like this be possible in your hometown? How would you engage community to explore development strategies? What resources and partners do you need at the table? Come and challenge yourself to think outside of the box and serve your communities in nontraditional ways.