“A true community is not just about being geographically close to someone or part of the same social web network. It's about feeling connected and responsible for what happens.” -Yehuda Berg
Perhaps one of the most important things we can do in our lives is to establish a sense of community, to grow and connect with those around us. Whether they are down the road or in a nearby town, fostering that sense of connectedness is what makes Idaho one of the greatest places to live.
For Jennifer Mauk, the concept of community support is exactly why she joined Buy Idaho in 2016. With the organization’s long-standing presence in Idaho, it seemed like a natural fit for Mauk, who quickly became Executive Director in 2018.
Mauk and her Member Relationship Manager, Wyatt King, wear many hats for Buy Idaho, including as large-scale event planners. Events like the upcoming Buy Idaho Capitol Show are vital to showcasing Idaho’s many products and services.
“This year we celebrate 28 years and are so excited to be able to once again put on this event in our community,” shared Mauk. “On March 2, 2022, from 9 am - 3pm, around 100 local businesses will take over all four floors of the Capitol rotunda in downtown Boise for an epic showcase of all things Idaho. At this event we invite the community to come meet the candy makers, the grain growers, the swag creators, and the honeybee keepers that make and provide us with their unique products.”
At the event, Idahoans will have the chance to chat face-to-face with the business owners providing services in their communities. Everyone from local bankers to air-freshener makers will be in attendance.
“Independent businesses are the lifeforce of our communities. They bring an unparalleled uniqueness and community culture to our neighborhoods that makes them vibrant and exciting to live in and to visit.” – Jennifer Mauk, Executive Director Buy Idaho
As our global economy struggles to keep up with supply and demand, it becomes even more important to shop locally.
“These past two years have been a struggle for our local businesses,” said Boise Mayor, Lauren McLean. “As my staff and I work to continue Boise’s economic recovery, we are regularly meeting with business leaders to figure out how we can better help and support them. One of the best ways we can all do that is to simply buy local. When folks make that choice, they’re making a critical investment in their community that helps increase wages, expands access to opportunities, and strengthens the economy for everyone.”
It is estimated that for every $1 spent at local companies, 68% of that stays within Idaho. Mauk advocates that, “Shopping local keeps our independent businesses open and strong. By choosing the locally owned restaurant and coffee shop you are helping keep our neighborhoods viable, our Main Streets alive, and our downtowns a destination enjoyed by residents and tourists alike.”
For more information on Buy Idaho and the upcoming free Capitol Show, visit www.buyidaho.org.