Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
The city of Wyoming , located in Jones County , has a population of 638 and a poverty rate of 12%. Only 7% of the population is between the ages 20 and 29. Elder issues are also of concern with 24% of the population over the age of 60. These statistics qualified Wyoming for the Horizons program sponsored by the Northwest Area Foundation to address issues of poverty, economic decline, and a shrinking population of young adults in their community.

Response:
A key component of Horizons is study circles which focus on public discussions of various points of view regarding poverty issues. Eight facilitators from Wyoming attended a facilitator class then led three study circles in the community. The five sessions included conversations about causes of poverty in the community, ways to reduce poverty, community assets, and action ideas to make the community more prosperous. A total of 37 community members attended. A youth study circle, led by students, was held at the local high school. Each study circle identified three priority items from their study circles discussion to present at a community action forum attended by all participants. The group then selected action items to implement. Committees were formed and community members are actively moving forward with various projects.

Impact:
A new organization, “Wyoming Connections,” was formed with the mission to “enrich the members of the community by providing information on events, services, and opportunities in the area. We hope to provide more opportunities by bringing community members together through networking.” A newsletter has been developed to inform all community residents of upcoming events, community resources, and information that might be of interest. The newsletter is mailed to all city box holders with the hope of adding rural delivery soon. Initial costs of printing and mailing the newsletter have been provided by a local bank, community betterment committee, and generous donations from the community. Beginning in the fall, the newsletter will be distributed in water bills. A bike raffle and pie auction are planned to raise funds to cover future costs of providing the newsletter. A limited space for classifieds will also be added to raise funds. Volunteers provide 6-12 hours of time each month to produce and distribute the newsletter. All information is available via a link on the library's website and through an e-mail list being developed.

Wyoming Connections is compiling a list of local child care providers, including home providers and young adults, willing to provide child care during the evenings, weekends, and summer. The list will be available at the library and by e-mail request. A page is being added to the website and in the newsletter with a list of carpooling opportunities to activities outside the community. Because networking is a priority item, a public access channel was proposed as a way to increase communication. The local cable company will be assisting in obtaining the proper equipment to set up a channel at the library. The channel will then be maintained by community volunteers.

Welcome baskets are being provided to all new residents. Items in the basket were donated by local businesses. A coupon book was designed by the Welcome Wagon Committee. Brochures about Wyoming and the two local museums are included in the baskets. Since beginning the project, Welcome Wagon members have delivered the baskets and baked goods to seven homes. Future baskets will be purchased by the Wyoming Area Betterment committee. They are planning a bake sale to raise funds for the baskets.

A “Family Fun Night Potluck” was held in June on the community fairgrounds. It was planned and implemented by “Wyoming Connections” to get information to residents about their projects as well as to meet and connect with neighbors. Group members distributed flyers door to door inviting everyone in town to the event. About 65 members of the community attended. The committee is collaborating with other groups in the community to plan events for “National Night Out” in August.

To increase community beautification, several volunteers and city maintenance have spent time clearing weeds, trees, and larger brush in a local creek area. They plan to plant wild flowers and grass as well as use field rocks to help with erosion.

Contact:
Phyllis Zalenski
Family Resource Management Specialist
Iowa State University Extension
605 E. Main St. , Anamosa , IA 52205
319-462-2791 (Phone) 319-462-4572 (Fax)