Grace chats with local community catalyst Robert Kos about the integral role of music and events in revitalizing downtown areas. They explore how strategic partnerships and unique community initiatives can transform small towns into vibrant hubs of activity. Robert shares his journey from musician to downtown director, offering keen insights into the importance of collaboration and community engagement.

Robert brings his deep experience in event planning and his passion for community building, weaving in stories from his time in the music industry and local Wisconsin towns to highlight the impact of effective community-driven projects.

Episode Highlights:

07:48 - In my role, what I've really enjoyed is working with local businesses and getting to know them, because many of them totally get it. They understand that, and I love working with with them, and they have a clear vision of what it is that they're trying to accomplish, who they're trying to get in front of, and how can they help. Then there's other business owners who aren't as clear on that, and I love sort of introducing them to this concept of community and giving back, and how can we as Menomonee Falls Downtown or Village of Wauwatosa BID, how can we help you and your business achieve your goals, in addition to you helping us in the community.

10:21 - Don't forget what we're doing is trying to drive traffic to the downtown areas to help our businesses, but also create things that will help enhance the quality of life for residents, to make it more attractive for people to to live there, and then more attractive for businesses to move there. And at the same time if those events generate revenue, then we then can put that revenue back into the community.

21:34 - I think the importance of realizing that you're part of a community and seeing how can I work together with my neighbors, residents and businesses to really benefit all of us, and give back to the community which will benefit all of us together.

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