Gustav won’t help, but nonprofit leaders in New Orleans are attempting to turn the march of young adults into the city a permanent settlement.  A dozen nonprofit and business groups are starting 504ward: New Orleans Calling.  The three-year campaign will include a Web site with job listings and other information for professionals in their 20s and 30s and a program to connect newcomers with long-time residents and local leaders.

One of the real lures of New Orleans for young adults is the ability to make a significant impact right away — no waiting.  In New Orleans, they find flexibility and creative freedom but with greater responsibility.  You can succeed big or fail big.

It’s an interesting lesson for other cities that want to attact young adults.

You do not have to go to New Orleans to make a significant impact right away. You can do it any community, especially in the Roanoke and New River Valleys of Virginia. We have always said the region needs people who want to be big fish in a small sea rather than a small fish in a large sea.

We must embrace, celebrate and communicate succession plans in all organizations to continue the future progress that’s been made in our region. If we do not, then our region will suffer long-term and more of our young adults will disengage or leave…for New Orleans.