Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Humeston is a community with a population of 543 and a poverty rate of 21.4%. During the Horizons program the community identified a need to provide an outlet for local artists and crafters to market their products. A clothing store was attracting clients from a large geographic area and there were no restaurants open in town with a menu that fit the demographics of those customers.

Response:
Horizons participants began a dialogue that explored the possibilities of opening a gallery and sandwich shop in Humeston. A focus meeting was held in January of 2008 to clarify goals and learn about resources. The meeting was organized by ISU Horizons Coach Joyce Lash and facilitated by Communities Program Specialists Steve and Lynn Adams. As a result of these beginning conversations Stan and Sarah Lovett, Belva Snow and Willa Clark formed a partnership that focused on the development of the gallery and café.

Impact:
Grassroots Gallery Gifts and Café officially opened for business on June 6, 2009. The gallery has for sale works of art, paintings, and craft items by local artists. Soups, sandwiches and desserts are prepared locally and served daily, Tuesday through Saturday. Three local residents are now employed part-time during the noon lunch hour. Humeston’s local Co-op Grocer works with the business to supply the ingredients for the menu items. The Wayne County Arts Council helps to jury the art work and craft items offered for sale. Snyder’s, the local clothing store, is providing support with business operating advice. Renovation of the building was completed by the owners and local contractors. Two other businesses will be opening soon on the main street of town. Whiddledottles will feature antiques and Shaker Works will have shaker reproductions and offer custom woodworking. Humeston has additional project ideas that were discussed at the focus meeting to complete. The ultimate goal is to increase the flow of customers to their community and to ensure that they have a variety of reasons to return.

Additional ISUE Extension Staff:
Steve Adams, Lynn Adams

Additional Team Members or Community Partners:
Stan Lovett

Contact:
Joyce Lash
Ringgold County Extension
101 North Polk
Mount Ayr, Iowa 50854
641-464-3333
lash@iastate.edu