MakeMyMove aims to attract 20 new residents to Henry County

Christy Ragle, for The Courier-Times

With a goal of infusing 20 new residents into Henry County, the community’s MakeMyMove efforts are officially underway.

MakeMyMove.com connects remote workers with offers from communities who want to attract residents. Indiana communities such as Greensburg, West Lafayette, and Muncie are among the other places offering relocation incentives to encourage new movers.

Henry County’s offer was piquing the interest of movers before the promotional page on MakeMyMove.com was complete. The team at MakeMyMove made several visits to Henry County this fall and created a series of videos and captured the community’s story to share with potential movers.

“Everyone can play” is the theme behind the MakeMyMove campaign for Henry County.

This theme summarizes the options available for all ages to participate in recreation around the community. From youth sports at the Henry County YMCA to the theatrical opportunities at the Guyer Opera House, Henry County provides plenty of ways to “play.”

“There has been considerable research around the importance of play at all stages of life,” said Katherine Wolgemuth of MakeMyMove. “There is a lot of conversation already happening about unique interests, and we are excited to help insert Henry County into these conversations.”

Henry County’s MakeMyMove offer includes $5,000 cash for relocation, free co-working space for a year, complementary Arts Association of Henry County membership, free internet use for a year (within certain locations), a free gym membership, and a Henry County Welcome Basket. Movers can also choose three of the following amenities: State and local park pass, golf course membership, $200 local wine & dine package, free youth sports registration, all access high school sports pass up to $300, or $200 worth of ice cream and treats.

While the primary focus of the marketing in this effort is toward remote workers, the incentives may be extended to people who currently live out of state and are coming to work for local employers. Employers who have potential staff members who qualify should notify the New Castle-Henry County Economic Development Corp. with the name of the person that they are extending the offer to before they apply to MakeMyMove.

“I am excited to welcome new residents to our beautiful county,” said County Commissioner Bobbi Plummer. “From the small towns along the National Road to the rural countryside, we have a safe community for new people to call home.”

The MakeMyMove initiative is a partnership between the EDC, Henry County, City of New Castle, and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. The MakeMyMove team recently began a full marketing campaign around the community’s offer targeted to out-of-state movers.

“Henry County is well-positioned as a rural setting with big city amenities nearby,” EDC President Corey Murphy said. “Our goal is to attract new residents who can enjoy our community and help us make it even better.”