When & Where
Apr 09, 2026, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Big Lots, 110 Greene Plaza, Waynesburg, PA 15370, USA
About the Event
Revitalization doesn't happen overnight—it happens through a series of "small wins" and rock-solid partnerships. We’re heading to Buckhannon, WV, to see one of the region's most successful examples of community-university collaboration and community-driven local economic development. Learn how they’ve transformed their downtown into a vibrant cultural hub by engaging local leaders and volunteers through the "Create Buckhannon" model.
Day at at Glance
8:00 AM: The bus will depart from Big Lots, 110 Greene Plaza, at 8:30am. Please arrive by 8am to ensure a prompt departure. The bus is equipped with restrooms and we will provide coffee, water, and light snacks for the trip.
Morning Block: Community collaboration panels. Hear from local leaders about how they bridge the gap between "town and gown" to get things done and how community members have come together to achieve ongoing shared success.
Lunch: Sit in on a meeting of Create Buckhannon, the community-led group that serves as the heartbeat of the town’s development while enjoying lunch.
Afternoon Block: Walking tour of downtown and cultural landmarks including a revitalized opera house and park, followed by a guided strategy discussion about ideas and next steps for Greene.
5:30 PM: Return to Waynesburg. Drop-off will be at Big Lots.
Come prepared for a day of walking, talking, and exploration! Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate layers will help your day be more comfortable and fun.
Registration is first-come, first-served and capped at 25 people.