For a community to thrive, bigger does not equal better.
When making a decision, ask, “Will this make residents proud to live here?”
People spend time in places that make them feel good, that are cared for.
Volunteers don’t want to sit in meetings; they want to help, to do, to create change.
We need to invest in our youth and pass down the legacy of our businesses and organizations.
These are just a few of the ideas shared by Jeff Siegler, an author and consultant on community development and the founder of Revitalize, or Die. During a week-long residency, Jeff presented to and met with various groups of city representatives and residents to tap into issues Marysville is currently facing, and how we as a community can shape a better future for our town and the people who call it home.
The staff, board and committee members of OneMarysville met at the end of the residency to discuss key takeaways from Jeff’s visit, as well as to plan out what is next. From small to large initiatives, it is clear that our time with Jeff helped start conversations that will have an impact on the future of Marysville. We asked a few of our board members to share their insights:
I think what I took away most was that Jeff isn’t all about sunshine and roses. But really, that’s what we needed – a clear-cut list of ideas and thoughts about how to improve Marysville. We have the people; now we just need to build the infrastructure and put people on their path to make Marysville a better place – which is what we all want.
– Mandy Cook, board president
A strong community is built on effort, ownership, high standards and pride in one’s residence. Ultimately, identity, legacy, action and consistent maintenance are key to creating and sustaining a place people value and love to live.
– Tyler Warren, board member
One thing that resonated with me was that we don’t need to focus on getting bigger, we need to focus on getting better. I had never thought in those terms. I also think that if we focus on getting better and are able to accomplish that to any degree, getting bigger will naturally follow.
– Amy Peschel, board treasurer
As I saw during Jeff’s visit, we’re not starting from scratch — Marysville is already aligned, motivated, and ahead of the curve. Bringing everyone together just reinforced the strength of our team and shared vision.
– Rory Clark, board member
One of Jeff’s messages was, “Hope isn’t a strategy for improving your community. If you want to realize change, you’re going to have to take action.” His challenge to communities and raw honesty always offer a refreshing perspective that makes you stop and think.
– Kelsey Smith, board secretary
The less we’re together, the less we care about one another. Effort makes us proud!
– Delaney Budenbender, board member
When a place is cared for, people will care about it. By creating beautiful spaces where people can spend time and connect, we give them something to care about and a sense of belonging. One thing Jeff said that stuck with me is, “If you’re a human, you’re already an expert in places – and in how to make your community a place where people want to live and visit.” We are fortunate to have many people in Marysville who take pride in where they live. Now, we just need to spread that pride and connection so that every resident and visitor feels it.
– Paige Burton, assistant to the executive director
On the last day of Jeff’s visit, he met with the juniors and seniors of Marysville High School, after which all students were released for two hours of helping with community clean-up projects. This is the heart of community development: Pride in action. Helping where help is needed. Caring for the place you call home.
Interested in becoming a volunteer? Serving on a committee? Being a mentor? Please fill out our volunteer form and we will match you with a need in our community!
