Manatee County wisely focusing on ascending millennial generation
For anyone wondering why there's an astounding fascination with the millennial generation across the cultural landscape, population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau earlier this month put an exclamation point on the reason.
The millennial generation -- defined as anyone who was 18 to 34 years old in 2015, or those born in 1981 on through 1997 -- officially occupies the spot long held by baby boomers. Millennials surpassed boomers in population by around half a million people, 75.4 million versus the 74.9 million still breathing, the Pew Research Center found in analyzing the census estimates. Pew also reported this rising generation now comprises the largest American workforce.
This wave of the future is swiftly swamping society -- forcing a reboot with their distinctly different cultural values, political views, technological expertise and just about everything else.
Those blind to this sea change in perspective will be left behind in the evolution of our world with its views on urban living, neighborhood design and community assets.
Manatee County government and Realize Bradenton recognized this years ago and set strategies in motion to attract and keep millennials in our community.
The county launched its Manatee Millennial Movement in January of 2015 to provide a forum centered around education, empowerment and county development. One goal is to develop strong leaders who can drive political and social engagement. Visioning events focusing on the future of Manatee County -- like the #iSeeManatee forums in April this year and last -- yield ideas on mobility, housing, health and wellness, public safety, employment and infrastructure among others.
Realize Bradenton's mission of creative place-making through the promotion of the arts, history and sports and staging special events matches the desires of millennials. The organization's continuing success serves as an example of the community's various efforts to create a strong future with millennials leading the way.
This story was originally published April 30, 2016 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Manatee County wisely focusing on ascending millennial generation ."