Recharge Our Community’s Economy
IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR ROCE WORKSHOPS:
KEDC IS ADDING AN EVENING OPEN HOUSE SESSION TO OUR WORKSHOP EVENT THIS THURSDAY MARCH 13TH.
The public is invited to the Open House recap segment starting at 5 to 6, and 6 to 7pm at the Kodiak Marketplace.
During both Open House options, we will briefly share the work done during the workshops. You’ll be invited to explore various areas and add your thoughts and insights, as well as get a fuller understanding of the work being done by the community during the events. You do not need to RSVP for the Open House, but do contact us if you have any questions.
A Community Workshop Series
THAT NEEDS YOU TO BE SUCCESSFUL!
Every big idea starts with a small moment: a conversation, a new perspective, or a bold vision for change. The Recharge Our Community’s Economy (ROCE) Workshop Series is your chance to be part of that moment for Kodiak.
This is an invitation to shape the future of our island together.
Your Fingerprints on Kodiak’s Future
The strength of the ROCE workshops lies in the diversity of the people who participate. When we bring together voices from different backgrounds, experiences, and industries, we create solutions that reflect the full scope of Kodiak’s potential. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a stay-at-home parent, a Coast Guard family member, or a young adult with fresh ideas, your unique perspective is essential.
As one Outreach Committee member puts it:
"We need everyone at the table—each person’s input adds a new dimension to the ideas we can create together."
Why Does Kodiak Need the ROCE Workshops?
Kodiak faces unique challenges, from housing shortages to workforce development, but it also holds tremendous potential.
This workshop series is a chance to come together, explore innovative solutions, and ensure that the ideas shaping our future come from the people who know Kodiak best…YOU!
We understand that joining a workshop might feel intimidating or like another item on an already full to-do list.
That’s why the ROCE workshops are designed with you in mind:
NO EXPERTISE REQUIRED! You don’t need a background in leadership or economic development, just a willingness to listen, share, and collaborate.
FLEXIBLE & SUPPORTIVE! The sessions include time to talk, to listen, connect with fellow neighbors, and we even provide food, creating a relaxed atmosphere where you can focus on big ideas without worry.
A TEAM EFFORT! You’re not in this alone. Every participant plays a role in the conversation, and the facilitators from RCAC and KEDC are there to guide the process every step of the way.
Our first workshop will be held at KANA Marketplace March 13th, from 10 am to 4pm
Workshop Dates & Topics
The four-part ROCE Workshop Series is designed to empower participants with practical tools and strategies. Each session builds on the last, helping attendees identify local assets, map value chains, and create action plans for sustainable projects. The workshops also foster trust and collaboration, ensuring that solutions are truly community-driven.
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Workshop 1
"The Change Starts with You"March 13th: 10 am to 4 pm KANA Marketplace
Food will be provided!
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Workshop 2
"Building Trust & Collaboration within New Partnerships"April 9th: 10 am to 4 pm Location TBD
Food will be provided!
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Workshop 3
"Emerging Leadership &
Project Strategies"
May 7th: 10 am to 4 pmLocation TBDFood will be provided!
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Workshop 4
"Planning for the Future
& Celebration"May 28th: 10 am to 4 pm Location TBD Food will be provided!
Important Update:
KEDC IS ADDING AN EVENING OPEN HOUSE SESSION TO OUR WORKSHOP EVENT THIS THURSDAY MARCH 13TH.
The public is invited to the Open House recap segment starting at 5 to 6, and 6 to 7pm at the Kodiak Marketplace.
During both Open House options, we will briefly share the work done during the workshops. You’ll be invited to explore various areas and add your thoughts and insights, as well as get a fuller understanding of the work being done by the community during the events. You do not need to RSVP for the Open House, but do contact us if you have any questions.
Explore Opportunities & Create Meaningful Change
Shape Solutions for Kodiak
The Recharge Our Community’s Economy (ROCE) Workshop Series, pronounced like "ROCK," is a unique opportunity for everyone in Kodiak, residents, professionals, Coast Guard families, and business owners alike, to come together and create meaningful change for our island. Brought to Kodiak through a partnership between the Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) and Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC), these workshops are designed to help participants uncover local assets, build on Kodiak’s strengths, and turn bold ideas into actionable projects.
What Makes ROCE Different?
Unlike traditional programs that focus on outside investments, ROCE centers on harnessing Kodiak’s existing assets. It’s about collaboration and community-driven solutions, ensuring projects are locally relevant and impactful.
What’s in it for You?
For Residents:
Bring your ideas to life and tackle key challenges like housing shortages, workforce development, and creating new opportunities for the next generation.
For Business Owners & Professionals:
Discover how to expand your business or collaborate on initiatives like a small business incubator or shared workspace, designed to foster growth and innovation.
For Coast Guard Families:
Share your fresh perspective and help shape projects like community hubs or networks to better support military families and integrate with Kodiak’s vibrant community.
This is for EVERYONE:
This is your chance to shape Kodiak’s future. The ROCE Workshop Series begins on March 13, 2025, and continues through May. The first session will be held at the KANA Marketplace from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with food provided.
REGISTRATION IS OPEN TO EVERYONE!
What Happens at a ROCE Workshop?
Over four interactive sessions, participants will:
Learn to recognize and tap into the many forms of wealth in Kodiak, not just financial, but cultural, social, and natural resources too.
Strategize how to turn these assets into sustainable projects, such as a seafood co-op to market Kodiak’s world-class products, or eco-tourism ventures that highlight the island’s natural beauty.
Build action plans and identify partners, including local leaders, businesses, and organizations, to bring ideas to life.
Receive ongoing support from KEDC and RCAC to maintain momentum, secure funding, and connect with experts.
Learning from Success
Communities already have incredible results from similar initiatives:
In Arizona, participants built a local food system that enhanced food security while boosting the local economy.
In Montana, a ROCE-inspired group revitalized their downtown, filling storefronts with vibrant businesses and creating community gathering spaces.
In Nevada, workshops led to the creation of a community hub that improved local engagement and provided essential services.
Kodiak has everything it needs to replicate and even surpass these successes. With its entrepreneurial spirit, rich natural resources, and a strong sense of community, our island is poised for transformation.
Your Role in Kodiak’s Future:
Why Your Voice Matters at ROCE Workshops
Every big idea starts with a small moment: a conversation, a new perspective, or a bold vision for change.
The Recharge Our Community’s Economy (ROCE) Workshop Series is your chance to be part of that moment for Kodiak. This isn’t just another workshop; it’s an invitation to shape the future of our island together.
Why Your Voice Matters The strength of the ROCE workshops lies in the diversity of the people who participate. When we bring together voices from different backgrounds, experiences, and industries, we create solutions that reflect the full scope of Kodiak’s potential. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a stay-at-home parent, a Coast Guard family member, or a young adult with fresh ideas, your unique perspective is essential.
As one Outreach Committee member puts it: "We need everyone at the table—each person’s input adds a new dimension to the ideas we can create together."
Overcoming Barriers to Participation We understand that joining a workshop might feel intimidating or like another item on an already full to-do list. That’s why the ROCE workshops are designed with you in mind:
No Expertise Required: You don’t need a background in leadership or economic development—just a willingness to listen, share, and collaborate.
Flexible and Supportive: The sessions include time to talk, listen, connect with fellow neighbors, and we even provide food, creating a relaxed atmosphere where you can focus on big ideas without worry.
A Team Effort: You’re not in this alone. Every participant plays a role in the conversation, and the facilitators from RCAC and KEDC are there to guide the process every step of the way.
Inspiration from the Outreach Committee
The Outreach Committee—a group of passionate community members—is working tirelessly to ensure everyone feels welcomed and valued at the workshops. Their vision is clear:
"These workshops are about bringing people together to create real change."
"I hope that through ROCE, we can build projects that make Kodiak an even better place for families, businesses, and future generations."
Guidance from RCAC Workshop Leaders
We’re thrilled to have expert facilitators from the Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) traveling to Kodiak to lead these workshops. Their experience working with rural communities across the country brings invaluable insight and inspiration.
"Every community has untapped potential, and our role is to help bring it to light. Kodiak has so much to offer."
"The creativity and collaboration we see in these workshops are what drive lasting change. Kodiak’s opportunities are extraordinary."
Vision Casting: Imagine the Future of Kodiak
Picture Kodiak 10 or 15 years from now. Imagine an island where small business incubators have helped launch thriving local companies, where housing shortages have been tackled through innovative projects, and where eco-tourism draws visitors to experience our unique natural and cultural heritage. Imagine a community where new leaders have emerged, equipped with the skills and confidence to guide Kodiak into the future.
The ROCE workshops are the foundation for this vision. By participating, you’re helping to create a roadmap that benefits everyone in Kodiak—not just today, but for generations to come.
KEDC and RCAC: Committed to Long-Term Success
The work doesn’t end when the workshops are over. KEDC, in partnership with RCAC, will provide ongoing technical assistance to help participants turn ideas into action. From vision casting to creating action plans and securing funding, this program is designed to support the community at every step.
KEDC is also committed to offering future workshops for community groups that want to build on the momentum of ROCE. Whether it’s brainstorming new initiatives or refining existing projects, these resources will remain available to help Kodiak continue to grow and thrive.
Join the Movement
This is your moment to make a difference. The first ROCE workshop kicks off on March 13, 2025, at the KANA Marketplace from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with food provided. You don’t need to bring anything but your ideas and your willingness to be part of something extraordinary.
Together, let’s create the future Kodiak deserves.
or contact KEDC at (907) 942-6605 or email melissa@kodiakedc.com.