Heart of Jasper named a nationally accredited Main Street program
Heart of Jasper was named one of Indiana’s three newest nationally accredited Main Street programs, along with Main Street Corydon and Main Street Greensburg.
To earn Nationally Accredited Main Street status, communities must meet all six accreditation standards set forth by Main Street America and have advanced from the Indiana Accredited Main Street level.
“Congratulations to these outstanding communities and their contribution to the economy and success of Indiana,” Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith said. “However, this isn’t just about the money – it’s about the people who work hard every single day to meet these high standards. They truly represent the servitude and the spirit of all Hoosiers.”
Heart of Jasper was formed in August of 2020 through a collaborative effort from the City of Jasper, Jasper Chamber of Commerce, Dubois County Community Foundation, Dubois Strong, Dubois County Tourism, Greater Downtown Jasper Business Association, ROJAC, Jasper Public Library, Jasper Community Arts, and businesses in the Historic District, River Centre, and near downtown.
In November of that year, they named Kate Schwenk the executive director.
Since then, the organization has helped lead efforts to revitalize the downtown area by creating a variety of events that occur on a weekly and monthly basis year-round, including Shop and Sip, Movies on Main, and more. They also administer the facade grant program to help property owners update their buildings’ exterior and add to the aesthetic of the downtown area. They’ve helped to facilitate the Genesis 12 business incentive program funded through an unnamed donor that has led to $347,000 in grants to assist businesses in the Heart of Jasper district. They are also integral in the continued planning and development of the downtown area.
To be considered for national accreditation, a local program’s performance is evaluated by Indiana Main Street, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify organizations that meet rigorous performance standards. The Main Street organizations are provided a formal certificate recognizing them as the highest achieving Main Street communities in the State of Indiana. Additionally, they will receive access to Main Street America and Indiana Main Street trainings, networking opportunities with other regional and statewide programs, a resource toolbox unique to their needs, and more.
“Main Streets are the heart and soul of our communities, both culturally and economically,” said OCRA Executive Director Fred Glynn. “Congratulations to these Main Street programs for earning this designation and continuing to better our Hoosier communities.”
The three programs will join the 16 Indiana communities already nationally accredited, bringing the total to 19 Nationally Accredited Main Street organizations across the state.
