Board Spotlight: Local Stories from the Board of Directors
John Mitterholzer, Deshea Agee, Michael Wagler, Chris Wilson, and Mary Helmer Worth share stories from their time at the local level and how those experiences shape their perspectives today.
Marion, Iowa © Tasha Sams
We work in collaboration with thousands of local partners and grassroots leaders across the nation who share our commitment to advancing shared prosperity, creating resilient economies, and improving quality of life.
Emporia, Kansas © Emporia Main Street
Made up of small towns, mid-sized communities, and urban commercial districts, the thousands of organizations, individuals, volunteers, and local leaders that make up Main Street America™ represent the broad diversity that makes this country so unique.
Chicago, Illinois © Main Street America
Looking for strategies and tools to support you in your work? Delve into the Main Street Resource Center and explore a wide range of resources including our extensive Knowledge Hub, professional development opportunities, field service offerings, advocacy support, and more!
Waterloo, Iowa © Main Street Waterloo
Your one-stop-shop for all the latest stories, news, events, and opportunities – including grants and funding programs – across Main Street.
Kendall Whittier — Tulsa, Oklahoma © Kendall Whittier Main Street
Join us in our work to advance shared prosperity, create strong economies, and improve quality of life in downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts.
Find foundation & starting blocks for Main Street leaders in the Main Street America Academy. Photo by KandE Productions
We’re excited to share that we’ve just dropped three new courses in the Main Street America Academy, our new go-to destination for Main Street learning and professional development. And there’s more coming soon! Check these out and keep an eye out for more self-guided courses and live, instructor-led learning opportunities debuting soon.
Foundations: The Main Street Approach
Get grounded in the Main Street Approach — and see how your leadership fits into the bigger picture. Whether you’re brand new to the movement or reconnecting with the basics, this short Focus on the Four Points course will give you the grounding you need to move forward with purpose. Explore how the Main Street Approach works, what the Four Points mean, and how transformation strategies help communities thrive. Strengthen your foundation >
Introduction to Conflict Resolution
Conflict is part of Main Street leadership, and it doesn’t have to derail your progress. This Local Main Street Leader: Starting course offers practical strategies for recognizing tension early, responding with clarity, and preventing unnecessary friction. Learn how to navigate internal and external conflict, strengthen collaboration, and lead through difficult moments with transparency and confidence. Learn how to navigate conflict >
Managing Professional Relationships
Strong relationships are the foundation of a thriving Main Street program. This Local Main Street Leader: Starting course helps local leaders — including those working solo or on small teams — communicate clearly, build trust, and manage across formal and informal structures. Whether you’re leading staff, volunteers, or board members, find actionable tools to support sustainable leadership and stronger teams. Gain tools to manage relationships >
From interactive self-paced courses and immersive in-person workshops, the Main Street America Academy offers practical, engaging, and flexible learning experiences designed to help you grow your impact, sharpen your skills, and lead with confidence.
Already a member? Access the Academy using your individual member account website login credentials, create your profile, and dive in.
Not a member yet? Sign up for the Academy. Many courses, resources, and articles are free.
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