Northeast Nebraska mailbox project invites grads to return home

Each of the 172 seniors who graduated this year from one of the six high schools located in Holt County received an identical present — a congratulatory note offering graduation wishes and an open invitation to remember the communities where they grew up. And the invitation came inside a personalized mailbox. Nicole Sedlacek, Holt County Economic Development (HCED) director, said the mailbox project urged graduates who are entering the work force to take an active role now in the community.

Students who plan on attending college were asked to consider placing their mailboxes in their hometowns and Holt County following graduation from college. Sedlacek said most youths have hometown and school pride. Showing graduates the career and entrepreneurial opportunities that are available or needed in the region might help reverse trends in regard to population of rural communities. Making a connection with youths while they are still in high school is a key to success.

Sedlacek said that giving youths a sense of ownership instills a sense of community, which helps develop an attitude of wanting to return home. With the popularity of online networking, HCED can keep individuals updated via their e-mail. The development office has created an online presence at Facebook and currently has more than 100 members.