In 2025, Forward Wayne County focused on one central theme: preparing our communities, institutions, and partners for long-term success. It was a year defined not only by visible progress, but also by the foundational work required to ensure that progress is sustainable. Together with our partners, we strengthened systems, aligned priorities, and celebrated milestones that position Wayne County for generational impact.
Workforce Talent
One of the most meaningful areas of progress in 2025 was workforce and talent development. Forward Wayne County facilitated the organization and alignment of five public school systems and one parochial school system. The focus was on preparedness for work-based learning and the State’s new graduation requirements. This work ensured that students, schools and employers are aligned around shared expectations.
Complementing this effort, we hosted a second round of internship education training for employers. This helped local businesses strengthen their capacity to provide meaningful, high-quality learning experiences for students. These efforts are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more connected talent pipeline—right here in Wayne County.
To ensure residents clearly see opportunity at home, Forward Wayne County’s Employability Coalition launched the “Right Here in Wayne County” career campaign. This initiative highlighted the diverse and growing career options available locally, reinforcing the message that meaningful, fulfilling jobs and careers don’t require leaving the county. By elevating local employers, the campaign supports talent retention and attraction, two key ingredients for long-term prosperity.
Investing in Ourselves
Housing and neighborhood revitalization also took a significant step forward with the launch of the Wayne County Land Trust. This new entity represents a commitment to additional housing options, neighborhood stability, and reclaiming our downtowns, while supporting reinvestment into historic buildings.
In tandem, the Wayne County Foundation, through Forward Wayne County, made its first-ever impact investment in the Vaile neighborhood, demonstrating a new approach to community development that blends financial stewardship with measurable social impact. This milestone underscores our commitment to innovative housing solutions that are affordable and attainable for our residents.
GIFTS
2025 also marked the beginning of implementation for GIFT VIII projects, moving from vision to action. These catalytic projects in Cambridge City and Richmond are now advancing toward tangible outcomes that will strengthen quality of place, economic vitality, and community pride across the county.
We capped the year with a $1.5 million gift from Lilly Endowment Inc. through GIFT IX. This investment affirms both the strength of our partnerships and the readiness of Wayne County to steward resources effectively.
The SIP
A cornerstone of 2025 was a year-long planning process to develop a countywide Strategic Investment Plan (SIP). This effort brought together leaders, residents, and stakeholders from across Wayne County to align priorities and identify catalytic projects in five areas: housing, infrastructure, parks and recreation, revitalization/beautification, and tourism.
Ten of the county’s fourteen incorporated communities actively participated, demonstrating a shared commitment to collaboration and collective impact. The SIP reflects local voice, data-driven decision-making, and a clear roadmap for strategic investment in the next seven years. You can read it here.
2026
That momentum carries directly into 2026. In the year ahead, Forward Wayne County will begin implementing projects identified in the SIP, deploy asset-based community development training across the county through our Main Street organizations, and celebrate the opening of the Cambridge City Outdoor Venue Space.
We will also begin work on Phase 3 of the Whitewater Gorge and launch two new coalitions focused on Government and Arts & Culture, further strengthening collaboration across sectors.
Preparedness made 2025 a success. This progress belongs to all of us. In 2026, that preparation becomes action. Together, we will continue turning shared vision into lasting impact—right here in Wayne County.
