Our regional partners in addressing brain drain in Lynchburg held a luncheon with a prominent real estate developer who told the group how it was. Matter of fact, he told them to make it happen and quit complaining. It’s good advice.

No doubt in more rural areas, there are not as many big city amenities. However, there are many more opportunities to connect with key decision makers and become entrepreneurial. The question is do younger adults want to invest the time, talent and energies to make it happen? I think the answer is yes!

Look at all of the local YPOs that are forming in both Roanoke and Lynchburg. The emergence of entrepreneurship classes on college campuses are being driven by the students. There is the example of Cameron Johnson who has started 12 businesses at age 22. The examples are many, but are still not enough.

Engaging young people in the community, encouraging entrepreneurship, and empowering young adults within organizations contribute to overcoming the brain drain phenomenon.

One event is being created to do just that.

Valley Forward is having a unique event to get to these issues called Forum 4 the Future on September 13. Come to this event and get engaged in the community and make a difference by making it happen.