The Downtown Boone Development Association (DBDA) has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) READY Nonprofits program, bolstering its efforts to enhance economic vitality in Downtown Boone. This funding aims to strengthen the nonprofit organization's internal operations and programming, ultimately enabling it to more effectively fulfill its mission and contribute to the local economy.
DBDA plans to strategically utilize the grant across several key initiatives designed to build long-term capacity. A significant portion of the funding will be dedicated to board development and governance training, focusing on strengthening the leadership and strategic oversight of the association. Concurrently, DBDA will develop a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy, which is intended to improve outreach and engagement with local stakeholders. Furthermore, the grant will provide additional staff support, enhancing the operational capabilities and day-to-day functions of the organization.
These investments are projected to yield multiple benefits for Downtown Boone. By strengthening its internal systems, DBDA expects to operate more efficiently and effectively. Improved coordination between the board and staff is another anticipated outcome, fostering a more cohesive and productive working environment. A key objective is to enhance communication with downtown stakeholders, including local businesses, property owners, and residents, ensuring greater transparency and collaboration. Ultimately, these measures are designed to better position the DBDA to actively support the sustained economic growth and vibrancy of Downtown Boone.
The eligibility for this grant stemmed from DBDA’s successful completion of an intensive, 10-week virtual training program offered by the ARC READY Nonprofits initiative. This rigorous program provided participants with in-depth knowledge and skills essential for effective nonprofit management and growth.
The training curriculum spanned a diverse range of critical topics, including nonprofit programming and operations, strategic planning, board development, human resources management, and comprehensive marketing and communications strategies. DBDA President Kendra Sink and Executive Director Lane Moody represented the organization throughout these virtual training sessions. They participated alongside a cohort of other nonprofit organizations from various locations across the broader Appalachian Region, engaging in shared learning experiences and best practices.
Lane Moody, DBDA’s Executive Director, underscored the importance of the new funding for the organization and the community it serves. Moody remarked that Downtown Boone has experienced "exciting changes and growth" in recent years, and this grant offers a timely opportunity for the association to evolve alongside the community. She explained that by investing in the board, staff capacity, and adopting a more intentional approach to communications, DBDA is fortifying its foundational structure. This strategic strengthening, Moody elaborated, ensures that DBDA can continue to be a robust partner for downtown businesses, property owners, the Town of Boone, and the wider community for the foreseeable future.