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June 29, 2007

CreateHere

Received an e-mail today from Helen Johnson (formerly of Allied Arts) about a new organization/process/something that's formed called CreateHere. It looks to be very, very cool. I'm especially, especially excited that they seem to be looking towards the economic development side of things as part of what they do.

Hit the extended entry link for the full letter from Helen.

Dear friends,

I am thrilled to be able to share some great news with you. The first week of July 2007 will bring the launch of a new research and planning project in Chattanooga, focused on the engagement of creative, innovative and entrepreneurial Chattanoogans in the life of the city. Called CreateHere, the project will begin with three months of in-depth discovery, research and planning. I am happy to say that this new initiative will embrace the ArtsMove program as it graduates from Allied Arts to explore new territory. I am truly honored to be a part of this exciting endeavor.

Chattanooga is fertile ground for creative companies to become economic drivers and community leaders. In fact, an economic development study conducted in Chattanooga last summer reported that for our city to thrive, we need to encourage creative communities. We have already seen the beginnings of a wonderful, dynamic, diverse movement, but there has not been any central plan for pulling creative professionals together and helping them plug into Chattanooga for everyone's benefit.

From July to October, CreateHere will focus on collecting input from individuals, businesses and agencies to learn from creative organizations in Chattanooga and around the country. Through charrettes, interviews, investigation of successes and challenges that other cities have experienced, and research into the needs of creative companies, CreateHere will develop an overarching plan. Recommendations will include how to leverage Chattanooga's existing cultural, social, business and government resources, as well as plan for infrastructure that will encourage the attraction and retention of new creative individuals and businesses to the city.

The website will be up soon, so please check back for more information on the project and how Chattanooga citizens can become involved.
www.createhere.org.
Thank you for all of your support for me and for the amazing city in which we live. I look forward to working with you in the near future. Please send all future emails to helen@createhere.org

All the best,

Helen