Is Small Town America Still Alive?

About this Conversation

Small towns have changed dramatically over the years. Businesses have closed, technology has changed how we connect, younger generations have moved away, and the way we gather as a community isn't always the same as it once was. But at the same time, small towns continue to offer connection, neighborliness, traditions, and a sense of belonging that can be hard to find elsewhere. This conversation invites community members to share what small-town life means to them. What have we lost? What have we gained? What makes a community feel alive? And what can we do to make sure our small towns continue to thrive for future generations? This will be a guided, informal conversation—not a debate or a presentation. Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences, listen to different perspectives, and reflect on the past, present, and future of our small-town communities. The goal isn't to decide whether small-town America is alive or dead. It's to hear from the people who live here and discover what we can do to keep our communities connected, vibrant, and worth coming home to.