Listening and Learning Together: Brainerd Focus Group

On Tuesday, March 27, Minnesota’s Northwest District held a Focus Group session in Brainerd at the DNR building on Minnesota Drive. The goals of the session were to 1) Develop relationships among stakeholders in the Brainerd area, 2) Identify Brainerd area community needs related to environmental conservation, 3) Gain perspective on Conservation Corps brand awareness in the Brainerd area, and 4) Understand levers impacting career pathways for young people in the Brainerd area. The eight individuals who attended provided insightful feedback particularly on recruitment, partnerships, and community needs. These stakeholders represented many organizations including the Minnesota DNR, Happy Dancing Turtle, Crow Wing Soil and Water Conservation District, Brainerd Parks and Recreation, and Rotary Club of Brainerd. The final session on Tuesday, April 27, 2pm at Jack Pine Brewery, will summarize results of the first session and discuss strategies to meet community needs followed by a social from 4-6pm. If you live in the area, please join us!