Phase I Expansion: For true frontiersmen (and women)

In a perfect world, we’re a year or two away from feeling like we’ve honed our model enough to offer it up just about anywhere. But we’re well aware that the interest in The Village Square is high now (we’ve had to bat off a few suitors now and again). So we want to offer an opportunity for those equally dedicated to this idea as we are to join us in working out the last few details before we fly.

If you think that could be you, find an online application that has links to much more information HERE.

What you get if we pick you: We help you get up and running, sharing everything we’ve learned so far. Your hometown gets it’s own real estate on our website, we provide accounting, administrative and database support (i.e. you get to skip some big headaches we had). If you’re the first in your state, you’ll be responsible for some paperwork (i.e. you don’t skip all of the big headaches we had. But on the up side, you’re the state alpha dog which has some perks). We share all our program content, graphics, press releases and you can follow along behind us on topics for the season (or pick your own, just know there may be danger in those red hills). Basically, you get a franchise without paying for it, but as franchises go, it’s worth a little less than McDonald’s (just saying).

What you don’t get even if we pick you (yet): The Dinero. Like all good pioneers, you’re going to have to find a sugar daddy (oh like Wells Fargo) to fund your manifest destiny. We have learned a thing or two about the money and will help. We hope to offer a little more start-up support in the future, you’ll just have to decide whether you’ve got the spirit of a real frontiersman or you want to come along later with the women, children and fine china.

Taking a pass for now but interested in dipping your toe in the water of improved civility? Try out self-generated Village Square programming, “The Village Circle,” HERE. Or consider hosting “Politics, Partisans & A Pint,” a monthly happy hour that fosters constructive friendships across the aisle. Find out about the particulars HERE. Want to establish a civility beachhead in your state before you start an official Square? We’re looking for Tweeters to start up state Twitter sites.

Questions? Call Liz Joyner, Executive Director at (850) 264-8785 or reach her by email at liz@tothevillagesquare.org

(Photo credit)