Our Mission · What We Do in Mora
We started as a grassroots group of volunteers and have grown into something bigger! Now, we're officially recognized as a MainStreet District and Arts and Cultural Compound through New Mexico MainStreet. Our organization runs with the help of one staff member and a dedicated volunteer board of directors. Together, we focus on projects and activities that bring our district to life and benefit the entire community.
As part of the New Mexico MainStreet Network, we follow what's called the Four Point Approach. This means we work on projects in four key areas to keep revitalizing the heart of our community. Every step counts, and we believe that even small efforts can lead to great things.
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, want to volunteer at an event, or join one of our committees, there’s a place for you here. Let’s keep making good things happen, one step at a time!
What is New Mexico MainStreet?
A program of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, New Mexico MainStreet works throughout the state to help affiliated local organizations create an economically viable business environment while preserving cultural and historic resources. New Mexico MainStreet uses a community asset-based approach to economic development in partnership with local revitalization organizations to rebuild the local downtown economy.
The program’s core objective is downtown revitalization and redevelopment and the mission is to develop local capacity to engage people, rebuild places and revitalize economies resulting in economically thriving downtowns, greater business and employment opportunities and a higher quality of life.
What is the Four Point Approach?
Transformation Strategies are implemented through comprehensive work in four broad areas, known as the Four Points.
ECONOMIC VITALITY focuses on capital, incentives, and other economic and financial tools to assist new and existing businesses, catalyze property development, and create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and innovators that drive local economies.
DESIGN supports a community’s transformation by enhancing the physical and visual assets that set the commercial district apart.
PROMOTION positions the downtown or commercial district as the center of the community and hub of economic activity, while creating a positive image that showcases a community’s unique characteristics.
ORGANIZATION involves creating a strong foundation for a sustainable revitalization effort, including cultivating partnerships, community involvement, and resources for the district.
What is the Arts & Cultural Compound Designation?
The Arts & Cultural Districts (and Compounds) Program promotes the exceptional art and history of New Mexico while assisting communities in developing their cultural and artistic resources to create dynamic and economically vibrant districts.
The Arts & Cultural Districts (and Compounds) Program is a joint effort of three state agencies and private entities including New Mexico MainStreet, Department of Cultural Affairs divisions: New Mexico Arts and Historic Preservation, Tourism Department, and the McCune Charitable Foundation. The New Mexico Arts Commission is the state authorizer for new Arts & Cultural Districts (and Compounds) while New Mexico MainStreet administers the program.
State-authorized Arts & Cultural Districts (and Compounds) receive incentives such as assistance with developing cultural plans and enhanced historic tax credits for the rehabilitation of historic structures within the district. Each partner offers specialized assistance to the districts.
