On a brisk winter day, Andrew McCrea, a renowned advocate for community revitalization and the visionary behind Total Town Makeover, joined a spirited virtual session with the girls of Be the Voice of Girls. The discussion centered on how small acts of community design can inspire significant transformation, empowering even the youngest voices to take part in shaping a brighter future.
Andrew began by painting a picture of his own small hometown in the Midwest, a place defined by its rural charm and a population of just 1,000 people. He shared stories of how the heart of his town—once bustling with grocery stores and cafés—had fallen into decline. Buildings were shuttered, streets were quieter, and many residents had moved away. But instead of focusing on the loss, Andrew turned his attention to possibility.
“Design,” he explained, “is about more than aesthetics. It’s about fostering connection and pride in the places we call home.”
The girls, listening intently, were invited to imagine their own communities transformed. Andrew’s belief in the power of small, deliberate actions resonated deeply. He shared how simple acts—like cleaning a yard or planting flowers—can ripple outward, inspiring neighbors and friends to join in creating a more beautiful and welcoming environment.
A particularly inspiring story came from Vernal, Utah, where a community initiative to plant flowers along the streets began with just a few individuals. This small act sparked a town-wide movement, turning Vernal into a vibrant and colorful place that drew visitors and strengthened community pride. Andrew’s recounting of this transformation underscored a simple truth: small, collective actions can lead to profound change.
But the conversation didn’t stop at flowers. Andrew encouraged the girls to think creatively about their own surroundings. Could an abandoned building become a community space? Could a park be made more inviting with artwork or better seating? He shared the inspiring example of high school students who turned a derelict building into a lively coffeehouse, a project that not only rejuvenated the space but also gave the students a sense of ownership and accomplishment.
Andrew also posed a question that left a lasting impression: “What is your town’s ‘water tower?’” Referring to the tradition of painting iconic symbols on water towers in small American towns, he challenged the girls to identify what made their communities unique. Was it a landmark, a local tradition, or a special story? Highlighting these unique qualities, he suggested, could foster a shared sense of pride and identity.
Throughout the session, Andrew’s stories weren’t just about design; they were about empowerment. He encouraged the girls to start small and believe in their ability to create change. Whether it was organizing a cleanup day, designing pet feeding stations, or advocating for greener spaces, the message was clear: their voices and actions mattered.
As the session drew to a close, Andrew offered a powerful reminder. “Sharing your story is just as important as living it,” he said. “By sharing your journey, you inspire others to dream big and take action.” This sentiment is at the heart of Be the Voice of Girls, a movement that amplifies young voices and empowers them to lead.
Andrew’s message lingered long after the session ended, planting seeds of inspiration. The girls left with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to envision and create change in their own communities. And for those who read these stories, the call to action is clear: by supporting Be the Voice of Girls, you are investing in the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow. Together, we can nurture these bright ideas and help them blossom into lasting impact.
For more inspiration and ideas, explore Andrew McCrea’s work at Total Town Makeover, where you can find countless examples of how small towns are transforming into thriving communities. Additionally, visit The American Countryside to discover a rich collection of stories celebrating the unique character and spirit of towns across America. Together, these resources provide invaluable insights for anyone passionate about revitalizing their community.
