Small town Ontario! What's missing?

Did you grow up in a small town somewhere in Ontario? What does that town look like now compared to 75 or even 100 years ago? There are so many little towns and villages in rural parts of Ontario that have drastically changed over the past 100 years. Have you ever driven through a little town and thought, "Wow, I bet this place was beautiful at one point!" Can you visualize how much potential that town could actually have in 2021?

Over the past year COVID-19 has provided us an opportunity to reflect on the things that are truly important in life. The pandemic has impacted people in many different ways, both positive and negative. COVID-19 has caused families many hardships but also provided some people time to reflect on their own lives and make considerable changes. These changes would not have even been considered if the pandemic had not occurred.

Companies were forced to make drastic changes to how they managed day to day business. Many companies learned that employees did not need to be in an office setting to complete their roles. This provided people the opportunity to relocate to some rural areas throughout Ontario.

Prior to the pandemic shopping in small town Ontario was not always possible. Many little towns had multiple vacant store fronts due to the popularity of shopping in larger box stores. When the pandemic hit more of these little shops throughout small town Ontario were forced to close. They were not able to sustain themselves.

WHAT WOULD MAKE THIS RURAL COMMUNITY GREAT?

With new people now living and visiting more of these rural communities in Ontario, the possibilities are endless! Think of the potential! What do you think is missing from your small town? What would you love to see?

Look at those vacant store fronts, what used to be there? Years ago many small towns had a local bakery, butcher shop and some specialty shops. When you needed to purchase something you could buy the items you needed from local merchants.

What would make your little town better? What would draw people to this rural area? What could you bring to this rural community? How could that small town charm be revived? All it takes is one entrepreneur to take a chance!

Local people want to support local businesses. COVID-19 has helped us learn that we need to try and support local businesses to help build our communities. Small businesses are invested in their communities. Small businesses help support local sports teams and community activities. Small businesses help make the community great!

The next time you drive through that rural community or small town, get out and walk around. Walk down the street and think about 'what would make this community great'? You may actually surprise yourself! Maybe this is where your next opportunity awaits!

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