On the eve of its 30th anniversary, Main Street Columbus has received 501(c)3 tax-exempt status, the organization announced recently. The official U.S. Internal Revenue Service designation means the entity is eligible to apply for government and foundation grants which will broaden its access to resources and strengthen its ability to improve the community. It also means contributions to Main Street are now tax-deductible. Achieving the benchmark fulfills a goal Executive Director Barbara Bigelow set when she took on the post two and one-half years ago.
The organization’s volunteer board of directors and community volunteers strive to build awareness of Columbus’ downtown, improve quality of life for its residents and businesses, identify downtown issues and seek solutions. They also plan community events and networking opportunities for downtown merchants and provide programs to assist property and business owners in property improvements.
“Through our Main Street committees, we encourage historic preservation and good design, as seen in landscaping and beautifying of our historic downtown,” said Kevin Stafford, president of the board of directors. “From coordinating year-round, award-winning promotions to supporting our local economy, the Main Street Columbus staff and volunteers are committed to the economic prosperity of our historic district and protecting our small downtown charm.”
Today signifies another milestone for Main Street Columbus — its 30th anniversary.
“Aug. 9 is a very special day for us,” said Bigelow. “It was 30 years ago on that day that we were accepted into the national Main Street program.”
Donations count
All donations help enhance Main Street’s ability to achieve its mission.
“We accept donations of any amount — no amount is too small or too large,” Bigelow said, adding that downtown is the ‘heart’ of the community. It provides not only a central gathering place, but is also important to the city’s heritage, tourism and community identity.
Current supporters include local businesses, individuals, families and civic organizations that care about making downtown and Columbus a “more vibrant place to live, dine, work and play.” Current memberships start at $50. Membership forms are available at columbusmainstreet.com or at the office at 107 Fifth St. N.
For more information, contact Main Street Columbus, 662-328-6305. Visit columbusmainstreet.com and follow them on Facebook.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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