Everyone has a voice, but not everyone is heard!

Recently, I was able to hire an assistant who is definitely keeping me on my toes.  Ashley Roedel is a young woman who grew up in El Dorado, went to our schools, and has a passion for future of El Dorado.  She is a perfect addition to the El Dorado Main Street family.  While she is in her early twenties, much younger than many of our volunteers, her ideas and desire to make a difference in our community is inspiring. 

            Last week, another young volunteer, Chase Locke was in the EMS office.  Through a series of random conversations, Chase and Ashley convinced me that there are many young adults in El Dorado who have great ideas for the community.  They easily listed off the names of individuals interested in opening a small business, starting events, or have a passion for a certain need in our community.  They explained to me that in order to retain and attract young families and young single adults, there needs to be an effort to get them involved in the community.  As Chase says, there seems to be gap between the events that cater only to families with children or appeal to the older generations.  He explained that in order for young people to choose to remain in El Dorado, this gap needs to be filled and that young adults need to feel like a part of the community.

            After this conversation, the three of us hit the streets.  We traveled in and out of downtown businesses for the next couple of hours talking to young business owners and downtown employees.  It amazed me, as Ashley and Chase engaged in conversations with these young adults, the ideas flowed.  It is very obvious that there is a large population in our community of people within the ages of 20-35 (or so) that we don’t often give them the chance to express their ideas.

As we wrapped up the afternoon, a plan was formed to bring a group of these young adults together and have a big brainstorming session on October 11, 5:30p.m. at the Coutt’s Museum.  The discussions may lead us to thinking of businesses that we want to see in the downtown, events that would appeal to them, or community needs and improvements.  It will be a casual gathering with drinks and refreshments, where we hope that young adults, who are passionate about El Dorado, and also have the desire to make a difference attend. 

If you are a young adult, no specific age range, and are interested in attending this fun activity please join us!  If you have any additional questions, call 321-3088.