The July 4th Edition (with report)

Happy Tuesday friends! Three cheers for the Fourth! I hope you celebrate the things you hold dear, with those dearest to you.

One of my earliest memories of the 4th of July isn’t even my own memory, it’s the stories told to me by my parents and sister about July 4th, 1976. America was celebrating its bicentennial and, as the 10 month old on the block, I was the Bicentennial Baby. Everyone decorated bikes (and a stroller) and much patriotic revelry occurred.

I have actual childhood memories of July 4th celebrations on the Buffalo River, at Murray Park and RiverFront Park in Little Rock. Bobbing for apples, face painting, and getting to hold my first sparkler (our family was in the insurance business, we manage risk) were key parts of our summer curriculum.

One of my most treasured Independence Day memories as an adult was our last one in Little Rock. Friends and family gathered in our backyard for food, firecrackers, and fellowship. We had kids of our own now. I remember being awash emotionally with gratitude and a sense of belonging. I was a part of a special community, celebrating with those closest to me, the magical messiness of an America in progress.

Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas bring the party on the Fourth of July. I mean we go big y’all. From official city fireworks to flatbeds piled high for an over the top homemade show. It’s loud, proud, and wonderful (as long as you aren't a nervous dog or have an early bedtime.)

To my mind, these celebrations are centered on community connections. The events surrounding the day are often fueled by economic conditions. It’s the community bank that sponsors the fireworks and the large employer that caters the picnic. Many are given some time off to spend with family and friends. Heck, I think we all understand that hotdogs, hamburgers, and cold beverages cut into a paycheck!

Businesses and communities work together, creating a relationship that benefits all. Companies support local causes, while communities provide a supportive environment for businesses to thrive. Civic engagement plays a significant role in economic development, especially when it comes to talent attraction and retention.

Businesses that invest in programs, organizations, and policy that helps everyone earn more, learn more, and live well are betting on themselves to win. They believe in their product or service. The private sector should consider additional support for civic engagement, education, and celebration. Not investing in the lives of your workforce and your customers suggests that a business might be nearing the end of its shelf life.

An Intersection of Community and Economy

Employee Satisfaction and Loyalty:

• Place and Purpose: When employees see the company committed to the community, they feel a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction, boosting morale and job satisfaction.

• Your Work Matters: Active civic engagement makes employees proud, increasing loyalty and reducing turnover.

Attracting Talent (Part 1):

• Reputation (do give a damn about this): Companies known for civic engagement attract a caring and connected workforce.

• Shared Experiences: Civic activities align a business with meaningful experiences that help in recruiting more awesome employees and building professional connections.

Skill to Pay the Bills:

• Volunteerism and Leadership: Civic initiatives help us develop new skills like leadership, project management, and teamwork. It's investing in professional growth.

Quality of Life:

• The Grass is Greener Where You Water It: Civic engagement supports community programs and organizations that enhance overall quality of life, making the community more attractive to live and work.

• All in this Together: Active participation improves community safety and well-being, creating a connected, stable and trustworthy environment.

Social Cohesion:

• Ties that Bind: Civic engagement fosters strong community bonds, making residents feel more connected and invested in their community.

• We Belong Here: Encouraging civic participation cultivates an inclusive and welcoming environment, retaining diverse talent.

Economic Stability and Growth:

• Invest Local: Civic engagement boosts investment in local businesses and infrastructure, promoting economic stability and growth.

• Attracting Talent (Part 2): Communities with strong civic culture attract professionals who value community involvement, sharing responsibility, and teamwork, enhancing talent retention.