As part of El Pomar’s Regional Partnerships Program, we gather information to learn about the issues and opportunities in communities across the state. Our 11 regional councils provide a wealth of information, networks and relationships to guide our work and inform El Pomar about how to better serve all of Colorado.
Following the successful launch three years ago of the Business to College Program in partnership with Morgan Community College and Northeastern Junior College, the Northeast Regional Council decided widening the group of regional stakeholders made sense as they look toward the future. They felt it was appropriate to reassess the needs and resources of the nine counties in the region in an effort to learn more about an area as vast and rugged as Northeast Colorado.
To that end, fellows conducted 18 in person interviews from December 2012 through January 2013. Based on the compiled feedback, they decided to seek additional information through four focus groups, held across the region in Wray, Sterling, Limon and Fort Morgan.
The individuals who participated in the focus groups were as diverse as the Northeast region itself; representing local nonprofits, government, education, banking, and agriculture, to name a few, they brought extensive local knowledge to the table. Every member has deep roots in his or her community.
Focus group discussions ranged from the values and traditions of the communities to the strong work ethic found in the Northeast, as well as challenges to overcome in the future of the region. The fellows will report back to El Pomar’s Northeast Regional Council in late September.
The Northeast Regional Council’s focus groups provide a prime example of the importance and impact of the regional councils: local individuals collaborating with El Pomar and other regional partners to fulfill local needs.