Member Spotlight – McPherson County Community Foundation
The August 1st Chamber Connection looked a little different as the McPherson Count Community Foundation (MCCF) hosted Chamber and community members at the Community Building to unveil the findings of McPherson’s Mastermind Survey.
MCCF’s director of community services, Betsy Davis, walked attendees through the 2024 Community Benchmark Report for the City of McPherson, which was commissioned to help residents and leaders gain a better understanding of the most pressing opportunities the town faces. The report reveals “a strong sense of personal commitment and belonging among McPherson residents.”
The perception of economic conditions is mixed, however. Respondents viewed “current business conditions as stable but expect future improvements considering their perception of the future was lower than current perceptions. This view is particularly in employment opportunities and income levels.” The report recommends fostering entrepreneurship, attracting diverse businesses, and investing in workforce development programs to sustain economic growth.
While community engagement feedback reveals high levels of personal commitment, it indicates varied confidence in local leadership. “Strengthening community involvement through transparent communication and inclusive decision-making can address leadership concerns,” the report states. “Promoting pathways for leadership involvement and celebrating community achievements will foster a sense of pride and collective progress.”
The benchmarking report culminates in community priorities, of which a significant focus is on developing support programs for low-income families. The other top priorities include improving public infrastructure, expanding access to affordable childcare and affordable/quality housing, attracting new businesses, and removing/renovating blight.
The McPherson Mastermind Survey had 370 total responses with the largest demographic being long-term residents who have lived in McPherson for more than 20 years. The survey data was analyzed by Innovation Economy Partners, an impartial company out of Ohio.
For more information about MCCF or the 2024 Community Benchmark Report, see their website or Facebook page. See the Chamber’s Facebook page for photos from the August 1st Chamber Connection.
