Community Development

Abilene was not selected for the $500,000 BLOCK Grant, but the application brought together property owners, businesses, volunteers, contractors and community partners around a shared vision for downtown. Driving Dickinson County and the Abilene CVB reflect on the momentum created and what comes next.

Driving Dickinson County is pursuing a competitive $500,000 BLOCK grant that could transform a downtown Abilene block — while creating momentum for investment beyond it.

Chapman Valley Manor is expanding its continuum of care with the opening of Shamrock Suites, a new Residential Healthcare Facility design

What makes a rural community a place people choose? A gathering in Solomon showed how community pride, shared experiences and practical ideas can become part of the economic development equation.

Dickinson County is helping pioneer a new approach to rural healthcare — bringing trained community paramedics into patients’ homes to address risks before they become emergencies. With 257 patient encounters and growing statewide and federal attention, the program is showing its value as it approaches a critical question: what happens when the grant funding ends?

A $10,000 Network Kansas grant will help launch Young Roots Market, giving Dickinson County youth access to shared market equipment, hands-on learning and business education.

Four businesses, four different stories — and the same idea running underneath every one of them. Go inside the displays, the people, and the community spirit behind Dickinson County's first-ever Stars, Stripes & Storefront Showdown.

The Community Foundation of Dickinson County’s Annual Meeting celebrated the donors, volunteers and young leaders helping strengthen the county. In 2025, the Foundation awarded more than $2 million in grants and nearly $300,000 in scholarships.

A Station's Kids Farmers Market is about more than selling handmade goods and fresh produce—it's about empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. Discover how one local business is helping Dickinson County youth build confidence, creativity and business experience.

Chapman, Enterprise, Herington, and Dickinson County were recognized for 2025 Community Development Block Grant awards supporting projects ranging from historic building restoration and park improvements to wastewater infrastructure and downtown revitalization.

Economic development builds the engine, while community development builds the place. In Dickinson County, the two must work together to create vibrant communities where businesses can thrive, residents want to stay, and new opportunities can take root.

Dickinson County is investing $30,000 in local America 250 celebrations through a new community grant program supporting events, public art, historical projects, beautification efforts, and other initiatives across the county.

Investors, partners and community stakeholders each play an important role in Dickinson County’s growth. Learn how these three pillars work together to fuel investment, strengthen business connections and build a foundation for long-term economic success.

Discover how Dickinson County Economic Development Corporation supports businesses, entrepreneurs and communities through economic development resources, workforce assistance, strategic growth and business support across Dickinson County, Kansas.

Nearly a year after arriving in Dickinson County, Natalie Muruato is turning listening into action. As CEO of Driving Dickinson County, she is building relationships, supporting local businesses and helping position the county for continued growth.