About
About MainStreet Kent
We’re a non-profit organization focused on the revitalization of downtown Kent, Ohio.
who we are
Main Street Kent has 12 board members and many volunteers working to improve downtown Kent. Since Main Street Kent’s formation in 2006, dozens of new businesses have opened in downtown Kent, and a hundreds of new full-time and part-time jobs have been created. For every dollar Main Street Kent spends, $27 is returned in private investment.
We support local businesses’ marketing efforts, and create events throughout the year that encourage people to shop, eat, and enjoy downtown Kent—because these days, Kent has a lot to offer!
A FEW THINGS WE DO
- Adopt-A-Spot flowerbed and hanging flower basket program
Business facade restoration - Graffiti removal & Clean Up Kent days
- Events showcasing cultural diversity, arts, and fun for all ages
- We’re affiliated with the National Main Street and Heritage Ohio Programs
Program Highlights
Adopt-A-Spot
Main Street Kent is proud to help beautify our downtown through the Adopt-A-Spot program. Each flowerbed is sponsored by a company, organization, individual or family, and many great groups of Kent people volunteer their time to plant flowers in late May each year. We also hang gorgeous flower baskets around town, thanks to the generous support of Smithers-Oasis and The Davey Tree Expert Company.
Clean Up Kent Days
With the support of many community volunteers and Kent State University students, we dedicate a few Saturdays each year to cleaning up litter and graffiti around the downtown. It’s a great opportunity for all ages to contribute to our beautiful downtown; it garners a sense of community pride!
Public Art Projects
Main Street Kent has facilitated many public art projects, including the Joe Walsh mural at the Water Street Tavern, the Lakes Cities Trains mural on Burbick Way, and the Traveling Stanzas utility box art project in downtown Kent. We are committed to cultivating the arts in downtown Kent through partnerships with Kent State University, the arts community, and local business owners.
Women in Business
Celebrate Kent’s women in business. Read our interviews to learn more about their businesses.
Committees
Main Street Kent consists of four committees, each with a specific function, to best help downtown Kent.
Organization
Build partnerships and combine the talents and resources of diverse groups, such as merchants, educators, public officials and civic organizations, to grow and enhance downtown.
Marketing
Shape and strengthen the community’s image so that downtown Kent is an inviting, exciting place for residents, KSU students & faculty, visitors and investors, which will also improves businesses’ sales.
Design
Enrich the aesthetics of the community through the thoughtful design and regulation of building and storefronts, signs, landscaping, window displays, etc.
Business Enhancement
Strengthen the economic assets of the business district while diversifying its economic base through the recruitment of new businesses to provide a balanced retail mix; conversion of vacant buildings into housing, offices or entertainment or cultural facilities; sharpening of the competitive spirit of traditional merchants
Staff & Board
Staff
Heather Malarcik
Executive Director
Lesley Sickle
Marketing & Branding
Heather and Lesley are two Kent women championing all the small businesses throughout our community through promotion, event/festival planning, beautification, and expanding Main Street Kent into new territories.