Southern Indiana Business Report
JASPER – Heart of Jasper’s work in the community has earned the organization a designation as an affiliate Main Street program. Each year, Main Street America and its partners announce the list of nationally recognized affiliate programs in honor of their commitment to creating meaningful improvements using the Main Street Approach, a framework for preservation-based economic development and community revitalization.
“We are thrilled to acknowledge this year’s 337 Main Street affiliate programs and their commitment to revitalizing their downtowns and commercial districts,” said Patrice Frey, president and CEO of Main Street America. “During a difficult year, these Main Street programs have proven their unique ability to generate impressive economic outcomes, preserve the character of their downtowns, and lift up their communities.”
In 2020, Main Street America programs generated $4.14 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 4,356 net new businesses, generated 14,988 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 8,488 historic buildings, and clocked 983,702 volunteer hours.
In the past year, Heart of Jasper implemented the façade grant program, which reinvested $50,000 to five building owners in the downtown district; beautified the downtown by installing art pins designed by local artists, and planted flowers; and unveiled its new Pop-Up Market on June 5.
“I am proud to see all of the accomplishments from this past year,” said Heart of Jasper’s director, Kate Schwenk. “Heart of Jasper wouldn’t be this successful if it wasn’t for the board and committee members and the volunteers who support our organization.”
Heart of Jasper’s performance is annually evaluated by IN Main Street, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify the local programs that are committed to comprehensive revitalization and achieving meaningful community outcomes.