CITY OF VAN BUREN, THRIVE, UCA PARTNER ON COMMUNITY BRANDING INITIATIVE 

The University of Central Arkansas Center for Community and Economic Development (CCED), in partnership with nonprofit design firm Thrive, will assist the city of Van Buren with a branding initiative.

The branding development process will kick off with a workshop that engages leaders at the city, the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, the Van Buren Advertising and Promotion (A&P) Commission and other local stakeholders. Based on feedback and research, Thrive will develop a one-page creative brief, brand standards guide, tagline, logo for both print and digital contexts, social media icons and banner imagery, as well as other supplemental materials. The final product will be a fresh identity for the city.

“We are excited to support Van Buren through this unique partnership with Thrive,” said Shelby Fiegel, director of CCED. “Effectively telling your story is one of the most important recruitment tools a community can utilize. It is essential to have an authentic, compelling brand to stay competitive and grow your economy.”

CCED is offering these services at no cost as part of its annual Request for Assistance (RFA) program. Ashley Love, marketing and communication manager for the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce and member of CDI Class of 2021, submitted the RFA application for branding assistance on behalf of the city, noting that the city’s seal is currently being used in lieu of a branded logo.

“The Van Buren Chamber of Commerce nominated the city for this opportunity with the belief that an updated look and image will help us tell the story of how wonderful it is to live in Van Buren,” said Love. “We believe this project will fuel the momentum, excitement and pride we see in our businesses and residents as we work to continuously improve our community.”

Maryl Purvis, executive director of the Van Buren A&P, says he is excited for an opportunity to create a brand and logo that symbolizes a progressive, forward-moving community while keeping Van Buren’s rich history in mind.

“As Van Buren continues to grow and community dynamics have evolved, it’s important to understand and embrace our identity,” said Van Buren Mayor Joe Hurst. “Now is the perfect time to begin the branding process in Van Buren, and I appreciate the chamber and A&P commission for their partnership. With the assistance of UCA and Thrive, I’m fully confident that this initiative will be successful.”

About CCED
The Center for Community and Economic Development’s mission is to have a positive impact on communities by equipping leaders with economic tools and resources, building consensus to achieve community goals and bringing UCA resources and communities together. CCED envisions communities across Arkansas and the country with robust economies, a flourishing quality of life and diverse and engaged citizen leaders. CCED provides customized training and technical assistance to communities and their leaders and is part of UCA’s Division of Outreach and Community Engagement. Learn more at uca.edu/cced.

About CDI
The Community Development Institute, established in 1987 at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas, trains community and economic development professionals from Arkansas and surrounding states. The complete CDI experience is a three-year training program, with five days of training per year. Participants move through the program curriculum in cohorts and are exposed to a comprehensive, applied approach to the field of community and economic development. Learn more at uca.edu/cdi.