They grow up. They move away. They move back home. We call them "boomerangers," the young, educated talent who are causing "brain drain" in communities like yours. Don't despair. When they leave, it may be temporary. You just have to figure out how to tap into their longing to return home. Next Generation Community leaders are already doing it. Here are some examples:

Iowa's Governor Vilsack hosts "Iowa Parties" in major metros across the country. Anyone who has lived in Iowa is invited. College graduates are the bulk of invitees. Iowa's Human Resources Recruitment Consortium – a public-private partnership between the Department of Economic Development and employers – orchestrates the Iowa parties, and offers follow-up and job information at http://www.smartcareermove.com.

Nebraska employers get involved with their communities' 10 and 15 year high school class reunions. They host bus tours to showcase what's new in the community. The goal? To reintroduce grads to the community and the employment options available.

North Dakota's Governor John Hoeven frequently phones "expatriates" considering returning to the state.

News: Midwest and Northeast states may experience a "boom" in the number of retirees moving back from the sunbelt for two reasons: access to health care and grandkids. We call this the "Granny Effect." Polk County, Wisconsin is the fastest growing county in the region. Retirees are gobbling up lake property, buying second homes, or building their retirement condo.

 

 

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