The Power of Third Places for Attracting Young People

Sitting here in the Cathedral Cafe, you might think you were in the Pacific Northwest at perhaps a hip coffee shop hangout in Portland or Seattle. But no, you would be here in Fayetteville, WV, in the nerve center of the whitewater rafting, rock climbing and general "extreme sports" capital of the state.

Energizing rock music blares from the speakers, joining with caffeine to wake you up for an exciting day in one of America's "Top 10 Coolest Small Towns" as designated by Budget Travel. It's frankly rare to see such an encouraging sign of energetic youth outside of one of West Virginia's college campuses.

Techies talk about their latest router project. Whitewater guides discuss the upcoming season and the recent merger of several outfitter companies. Artists and musicians share inspiration. It's what you would expect to see, hear and smell in the nerve center of a vibrant community. The energy acts as a magnet, drawing more young people to develop relationships and stick around this great town.

Where is the strategic "third place" in your community? Where do young people, or a mix of generations, hang out to connect, share ideas and get each other excited about the future?