The DCEDC Rural Vitality Committee held its inaugural Rural Vitality Summit on the evening of June 16, 2026.
This event brought together residents, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and other stakeholders from across DeKalb County to share ideas, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities for our rural communities.
Participants from the Route 72, Route 38, Route 30, and Route 34 corridors engaged in meaningful conversations about topics such as downtown vitality, business attraction and retention, transportation, childcare, and collaboration. While each community has its own unique strengths and priorities, a common theme emerged: a shared commitment to preserving what makes our rural communities special while creating opportunities for future growth.
It was an evening filled with thoughtful discussion, new connections, and a collective vision for a stronger rural DeKalb County.
Thank you to DeKalb Data Center for sponsoring the event, Kishwaukee College for hosting us, and 5B’s Catering Service for providing a wonderful meal.
This summit is only the beginning, and we look forward to continuing the conversation and turning ideas into action.
