Vision Shenandoah is continuing to build momentum after receiving its official letter from the Lakin Southwest Iowa Initiative, marking another major step forward for the community-focused organization.
During a recent interview on KCSI, Dr. Margaret Brady said the letter confirmed that Vision Shenandoah is on the right track as it works to align local priorities with the broader goals of the Lakin initiative
Brady said the group has spent nearly the past year laying the groundwork for long-term progress in Shenandoah. That work has included forming a nonprofit organization, establishing a board of directors, conducting community surveys, identifying priority needs, and building teams around areas such as housing, childcare, tourism, events, grants, fundraising, and community enrichment.
Brady said the organization has tried to stay aggressive and proactive rather than waiting for funding decisions before getting to work. She said there is still more to do, but she is pleased with what has been accomplished in less than a year.
Vision Shenandoah’s next steps will depend in part on final details surrounding Lakin funding structure and grant availability, but Brady said the group is already positioned to keep moving projects forward.
She said the goal remains simple: identify Shenandoah’s needs, build the right partnerships, and help turn ideas into real community improvements.
