The Center on Revitalization and Preservation (CORP) has been awarded a $45,000 grant through the Technical Assistance Grant program from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to produce the Main Street Mastery: Strategic Training Video Series for Main Street Leadership. This initiative aims to support Main Street executive directors and board members who are new to revitalization efforts, helping them build the knowledge and skills needed to make an impact in their communities.
Revitalizing a Main Street is no small task, especially for those who are stepping into leadership roles for the first time. Many new executive directors and board members face a steep learning curve, trying to understand complex revitalization concepts while juggling day-to-day challenges. The Main Street Mastery series is designed to bridge that gap, equipping them with practical insights and strategies from the start so they can dive into their work with confidence.
“At CORP, we know that stepping into a Main Street leadership role can feel overwhelming,” said Sam Shoge, founder of CORP. “Main Street Mastery is about giving these leaders a head start, helping them quickly gain the know-how they need to tackle revitalization challenges and keep their communities moving forward.”
The video series will consist of multiple modules, each focusing on a core aspect of Main Street leadership. Topics include:
- Foundations of Main Street Revitalization: An introduction to the Main Street approach and how to apply it effectively.
- Community Engagement and Building Local Support: Strategies for fostering partnerships and mobilizing community involvement.
- Economic Vitality and Resilient Businesses: Approaches to supporting small businesses and promoting downtown economic growth.
- Design and Place-Making: Enhancing the physical environment to create attractive, welcoming spaces.
- Promotions and Events: Crafting meaningful, community-centered events that drive engagement and foot traffic.
Main Street Mastery will provide new leaders with insights drawn from real-world examples, helping them move past the uncertainty and into action. The series will be made available as a free resource, ensuring that communities of all sizes can benefit from the knowledge shared.
About CORP
The Center on Revitalization and Preservation (CORP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities grow through thoughtful, people-centered strategies. CORP partners with local leaders to build vibrant neighborhoods that reflect the unique character and aspirations of their residents.
