Our Next Generation: Strategic Objective #2

Make Fond du Lac a fun, social, and livable place for people in their 20s and 30s.

The Approach

We must provide for the quality of life needs of those in their 20s and 30s. The world is changing and the next generation desires a different lifestyle than previous generations. Over the course of one year, we held numerous workshops, events, and interviews with residents in their 20s and 30s, including those that had moved away.

The message was clear: “we love Fond du Lac, but we want a more urban, social, and intercultural experience.” For those in their 20s and 30s, the lifestyle and daily cultural experience of a community can be just as important, if not more, than the availability of a particular job. The next generation is mobile and open to relocation in a manner previous generations have not been.

While Fond du Lac cannot compete for those specifically set on living in Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Los Angeles or Boston, every young person does not desire that “big city” experience and the associated high cost of living. Recent studies have demonstrated Millennials are more diverse and living in a wider variety of community types than national media would have us believe. Although some young families are living in condos in huge cities and riding their bicycle everywhere, most young Millennial families are not.

If we work together, Fond du Lac can bring many things to the table. An exciting and quaint downtown. A historic yet affordable housing stock within traditional neighborhoods. A tight knit community of young professionals. Quality schools, churches, and community organizations. An endless access to recreation and outdoor activities, such as boating, hunting, hiking, cycling, and more. We are committed to implementing tactical projects that can transform Fond du Lac into a fun, social, and livable place for young people in their 20s and 30s.

Action Items