A YEAR OF IMPACT: Jefferson Matters 2025 Wrapped

If you’ve ever wondered what a full year at Jefferson Matters really looks like, this is it. Think of this as our version of Spotify Wrapped, but instead of songs and playlists, it’s made up of events, conversations, milestones, and community impact. 📊⭐️

Behind the social media posts, meetings, and everyday moments was a year full of momentum and support that truly made a difference. It reminded us that progress doesn’t come from one big moment alone. It comes from showing up consistently, working together, and caring deeply about Jefferson! 🎉

A Moment We Won’t Forget

One moment stood above the rest...being named a Great American Main Street Award winner was a milestone we’re still (and always will be) proud of! This recognition wasn’t about one person or one project. It reflected years of work by volunteers, businesses, partners, and community members who care deeply about Jefferson.

Record Hitting Moments

When we look back at this year, it’s hard to pick just one highlight. The truth is, the momentum came from doing the work over and over again… and watching those small efforts turn into something bigger.

We shared 36 “What’s Going Down in J-Town” videos, showing up week after week to keep locals in the loop. From event reminders to business spotlights, these videos became a familiar way to say, “Hey, here’s what’s happening in Jefferson.” Consistency mattered here, and you clearly noticed.

Then there were 31 Java and Juice mornings, which means 31 chances to slow down, connect, and have real conversations. These mornings weren’t about a program or an agenda. They were about listening, sharing ideas, and building relationships one cup of coffee at a time.

Community events were another big part of the year. We supported and helped coordinate 19 events, from longtime favorites like BRAG to newer experiences like Ladies Night Under the Lights. Each one brought people downtown, created memories, and reminded us why gathering together matters so much.

Behind the scenes, we were also focused on supporting local businesses. This year, 12 grants were awarded to small businesses through programs designed to help them grow, improve, and invest back into their spaces. These grants may look small on paper, but the impact shows up in storefronts, signage, and renewed confidence.

And finally, we celebrated 9 milestone moments that marked growth and progress for Jefferson. From five-year anniversaries and ribbon cuttings to welcoming new businesses and celebrating expansion, these milestones told a bigger story. Jefferson is growing, evolving, and continuing to move forward.

If we had to pick one question we heard the most this year, this would be it. “Is the Bell Tower open?” And honestly… Kevin loved answering it every single time.

The answer was usually yes. 😊 The Bell Tower is open daily from Memorial Day through October 31, welcoming visitors from 10 AM to 4 PM. Watching people light up when they realized they could head up to the top right then and there never got old.

And even during the off-season, the story doesn’t end. There are still opportunities to make the climb by appointment, depending on the availability of a Bell Tower tour guide staff member. It’s a great option for groups, visitors passing through, or locals who want to bring someone special up for the view.

Local Support, On Repeat

Supporting local businesses stayed front and center this year. More than 1,100 Main Street Money checks were sold, keeping $22,370 (what?! 🤯) circulating right here in town. Every check represented someone choosing to shop local, give local, and invest in Jefferson and the surrounding area.

A Year Of Big Milestones

And then there’s the big picture number that still makes us pause. $3.8 million in Main Street business investment came through private investment along with local and state grants this year. That’s a year of milestones right there. This kind of progress takes time, trust, and a whole lot of collaboration.

On the grant side, $35,575 in small grants was awarded through programs like Signage, Jefferson Wants You, Business Growth, and Façade grants. Small grants, big impact. These funds helped businesses improve their spaces, grow their ideas, and continue investing downtown.

Through events, sponsorships, registrations, and donations, $45,000+ was raised to help sustain Jefferson Matters and the work we do. That support shows up in everything from event planning to marketing to long-term community projects. It truly doesn’t happen without you.

Sharing Jefferson’s Story Far and Wide

One of the biggest surprises of the year was just how far Jefferson’s story traveled. Across posts, reels, stories, and ads, our content reached 2,094,709 views on Facebook. Yep… over two million. (!!!)

That reach meant local events, small businesses, and downtown moments were popping up on screens well beyond the square. It showed that when we consistently share what’s happening here, people pay attention. Whether it was a reminder to shop local, a behind-the-scenes moment, or a community celebration, those stories added up in a big way.

And while the number itself is impressive, what mattered most was the connection. It meant more people discovering Jefferson, engaging with what’s happening, and feeling a little more connected to our community, even from afar.

Some moments just click, and this one definitely did. Our Spook the Loop recap ended up being the most loved post of the year, and it’s easy to see why. The costumes, the energy, the smiles, the kids, the creativity… it all came together in one fun fall evening that people wanted to relive.

With 16,430 views, 7,485 viewers, and 5,728 likes, comments, and shares, this post reminded us how much our community loves showing up for events that bring people together. It wasn’t just about numbers on a screen. It was about shared memories, familiar faces, and the kind of night that makes Jefferson feel special.

Powered by People

Behind every stat is a person. Or a group of them. Volunteers logged countless hours. Committees met month after month. Planning sessions helped shape priorities and strengthen communication. And our annual strategic planning night set the tone for what’s next.

We’re also incredibly grateful for the support of our key community partners, including the City of Jefferson, Home State Bank, Jefferson Telecom, and Grow Greene County Gaming. Their continued support helps make all of this possible.

Why These Moments Matter

This year was busy, meaningful, and full of progress. It was powered by people who showed up, spoke up, volunteered, donated, shared posts, attended events, and believed in what Jefferson can be.

If there’s one thing we learned, it’s that small moments repeated over and over again really do add up. And we can’t wait to see what the next year brings.

Thanks for being part of it. We’re proud of this community… always!