wELCOME TO THE DISTRICT

 A native of Cedar Rapids, Jim currently serves as the Illinois Main Street State Coordinator with Main Street America. In this role, he works with 22 designated communities across Illinois, providing leadership training, community and board development, fundraising guidance and marketing partnerships. He begins his new role with The District on October 30, with full service beginning in late November.

He previously served as Interim Executive Director with CSPS Hall, Vice President with the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, and longtime Executive Director with the Historic Valley Junction Foundation in West Des Moines. He has worked with communities in several states, is a nationally-Certified Main Street Manager (CMSM) and is an active Cedar Rapids community volunteer and advocate. He currently serves as Board President for Playtime Poppy Children’s Theatre and as Board Director/Secretary for Revival Theatre Company.

From Board President Jeff Morrow, “We are thrilled to welcome Jim as our new Executive Director. He brings leadership, enthusiasm, local knowledge and experience that will move us forward and continue building on our successes. We are lucky to have Jim at the helm.”

Jim comments, "I was born and raised in southwest Cedar Rapids, graduating from Wilson and Jefferson, with many memories in this neighborhood. I clearly remember meeting at CSPS soon after the flood of 2008, discussing the district and working with the Iowa Economic Development Authority to begin recovery and revitalization. I've enjoyed my role as supporter, volunteer and board director in the past, and I'm humbled and excited to be in Cedar Rapids. Working together, we’ll make some great things happen. I’m grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to serving the community, neighborhood and over 220 businesses..”