Moving to a new community is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether someone is relocating from across the state or returning to their hometown after years away, finding connections and feeling like they belong doesn’t always happen overnight.

Discover Mitchell County is launching a new Welcome Bag initiative designed to make that first connection easier and help new residents feel at home from day one.

For Economic Development Director Emily Benedick, this initiative is personal.

When Emily moved to Mitchell County 15 years ago, she doesn’t remember receiving a warm welcome or having a clear place to learn about everything the community had to offer. Looking back, she spent nearly three years thinking about leaving because she hadn’t yet found her place.

That experience sparked an important question:

What if someone had intentionally welcomed me? Would I have felt connected sooner?

It’s a question that has inspired Discover Mitchell County’s new approach to welcoming new residents.

Creating Connections That Last

In the past, many new residents received a welcome bag when they established utility service. While appreciated, that process only reached some newcomers and often felt more like part of the paperwork than a genuine community welcome.

The new Welcome Bag program takes a more personal approach.

New residents will receive a welcome card inviting them to connect directly with Discover Mitchell County. The card will also direct them to the Discover Mitchell County website, where they can begin exploring local businesses, community organizations, events, recreation, and resources.

By creating a direct connection, Discover Mitchell County can answer questions, provide helpful information, and offer a sincere welcome to our communities.

Welcome cards can also be shared through city offices, employers, churches, and other organizations throughout Mitchell County, making it easier to reach new residents wherever they begin their journey.

An Opportunity for Local Businesses

The Welcome Bags will feature information and resources from Discover Mitchell County, but local businesses are invited to be part of the experience as well.

Businesses throughout Mitchell County are encouraged to contribute:

• Coupons or special offers
• Gift certificates
• Promotional materials
• Small branded items or giveaways

A county-wide coupon card featuring offers from participating businesses will also be included in each bag, giving newcomers a reason to explore local shops, restaurants, and services while helping them build connections throughout the community.

Discover Mitchell County plans to assemble 20 Welcome Bags at a time to ensure materials stay current and relevant.

Join Us in Welcoming New Neighbors

A welcoming community doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because businesses, organizations, and residents work together to help newcomers feel like they belong.

If your business would like to be featured on the “Coupons to Help You Discover Mitchell County” card or contribute items for the Welcome Bags, contact Emily Benedick at 785-738-3000 or by email.

Together, we can help every new resident discover what makes Mitchell County such a great place to live, work, and play—and encourage them to put down roots that last for years to come.

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