Never underestimate what a group of volunteers can accomplish. With our group of dedicated individuals and organizations, we have and can continue to make a positive change in our community and region.
Over the past year, we have seen what we can accomplish together. Let’s continue this effort to make our community a better place to live. COVID-19 is an unprecedented event. As a community we must focus our efforts to become more robust.
We have numerous organizations that are working together to help and support our area during this time of self-isolation. Mattoon in Motion is, and can support our efforts to strengthen our community by building on the framework which we have established.
As the stay in place order is extended; we need to focus our efforts on what Mattoon’s future will become. As businesses face adversity, there are programs to support them including the Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program, The SBA Disaster Relief Loan Program and the Hospitality Emergency Grant program to name a few.
Action items following the end to the pandemic
How can we make Mattoon a better, more prepared place to live after this is over?
Mattoon in Motion has been meeting regularly to prepare for the upcoming spring and summer season.
After our first big win with the Robust Economy Committee, we are well on our way to completing Elevate CCIC, Inc. the business innovation center, and entrepreneurial hub. We are working to grow Coles County and the region with the needed resources to start and grow a business. We are working diligently to make sure these resources are in place once the ban is lifted.
The Youth Committee and Energized Partnerships are working to develop a comprehensive plan to support the youth in our community. The Leader in Me initiative through the Mattoon Unit #2 school district is an exciting program being adopted by many in the community. It is our hope that this continues in homes as the students follow the stay in place order.
The Housing Committee is preparing for its next housing project, which will benefit another veteran in our community.
As a community, we have a great story. The newly formed Connections Committee is hard at work sharing our story.
This summer, the Parks and Recreation Committee will be working on the first part of the Mattoon in Motion butterfly project along the bike trial in Mattoon. The goal of this project will beautify the bike trail.
The Workforce in Motion Committee will be focused on helping local businesses navigate the aftermath of the pandemic. Their goal will be to provide support for our business community to survive and prosper once conditions return to normal.
We need the support of the entire community to endure the pandemic. If you would like to volunteer and support the Mattoon in Motion initiatives you can contact us.
The future of the community is in our hands!