Below are some of the most common questions we receive about the Better Way Project. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
- What is The Better Way Project?
The Better Way Project is a community-driven movement focused on restoring pride, safety, and opportunity for Fort Dodge. Together, we’re working toward safer streets, stronger neighborhoods, higher property values, and more things to do for families, young people, and visitors.
By revitalizing properties, supporting local businesses, and engaging residents, we’re building the kind of community where everyone benefits — and everyone belongs.
- Why does Fort Dodge need The Better Way Project?
Because the cost of doing nothing is too high. Abandoned buildings, stalled blocks, and years of inaction hurt safety, growth, and community pride.
The Better Way Project exists to change the trajectory of this town by bringing community members together to work toward common goals.
- Is this a nonprofit, a business, or something else?
The Better Way Project is a hybrid model. We operate like a community organization and like a private investment group.
That means we use community involvement to identify needs and investment to fix properties, fund projects, and support local businesses. It’s not a traditional charity or developer — it’s a practical model built to get real work done.
- Who can be part of The Better Way Project?
Anyone who believes Fort Dodge is worth it. Entrepreneurs, builders, creatives, investors, and everyday residents — if you care about the future of the city, you belong here.
- Do I have to invest money to be involved?
No. You can join by volunteering, partnering, sharing the message, or bringing ideas to the table. Investment is just one way to fuel the work.
- What do I get if I invest?
You get a seat at the table — and a stake in the outcome. Investors receive early access to new opportunities, revitalized spaces, and ventures that grow the local economy. Most importantly, you help shape how Fort Dodge rises.
- What does “a seat at the table” actually mean?
It means you’re not watching from the sidelines. Members help guide priorities, give feedback on upcoming projects, and have a voice in shaping Fort Dodge’s future.
Interested in learning more? Contact us!
- What types of projects does The Better Way Project invest in?
We focus on blighted properties, underused spaces, and high-impact community assets. We also support local businesses and entrepreneurs ready to build something new for Fort Dodge.
- How does The Better Way Project choose which properties to tackle?
We prioritize properties that are unsafe, abandoned, visible, or critical to neighborhood momentum — especially in transition areas like downtown where one win creates a ripple effect.
- How do volunteers get involved?
Volunteers can sign up through the Join In page on our website. They participate in clean-ups, revitalization events, neighborhood projects, and community-building activities. No prior experience required — just the willingness to show up.
- Is this only for big developers or large investors?
No. The Better Way Project is built for everyday residents and people with big ideas. Whether you bring financial investment or just your time and passion, you belong in this movement.
- How is The Better Way Project funded?
We’re funded through private investors, local partners, and occasional grants or donations. These funds go directly toward property projects, business support, and community improvements — the work that creates visible change in Fort Dodge.
- What makes this different from past revitalization efforts?
The Better Way Project isn’t a plan that sits on a shelf. It’s action. It’s people showing up. It’s visible progress.
It’s driven by residents and business owners, not top-down committees or wishful thinking. And it’s happening now.
- How can I stay informed?
Join the mailing list, follow The Better Way Project on social media, attend events, or become a partner. The movement grows as more people stay connected.
- How do I sign up?
Visit the Join In page, choose how you want to get involved — Invest, Volunteer, Partner, or Spread the Word — and we’ll guide you from there.