HISTORY OF THINK LOCAL FIRST

THE HISTORY OF

THINK LOCAL FIRST

In the spring of 2007, a handful of Santa Cruz business owners rallied around a common concern: the threat to local businesses posed by proliferating chain stores and easy online shopping. The need to promote and strengthen Santa Cruz County’s independent and local business community has grown increasingly important with the growing prevalence, here and in other shopping districts as more chain stores move in.

Think Local First – County of Santa Cruz was forming in 2007 around the shared desire to “promote and sustain economic vitality while preserving the unique character of Santa Cruz County.” The logic was that if the community was more aware of supporting independent and locally owned businesses, everyone would benefit: a ‘local’ economy would prosper and circulate money throughout the community, in turn promoting local spending and, ultimately, contributing to the vibrancy and health of Santa Cruz County.

In the early stages of Think Local First, folks volunteered their time and efforts without any guarantee of affecting much change. The Think Local First movement was largely fueled by inspiration found in stories of community support for independent businesses such as Kepler’s Books. In 2005, Kepler’s Books, a beloved and renowned bookseller in nearby Menlo Park, had abruptly shut its doors, having succumbed to competing chains and online book retailers. In an unexpected outpouring of support, the Menlo Park community came forth with donations, a viable business strategy, and a new board of directors. Within six weeks, Kepler’s Books re-opened and remains a vibrant hub of Peninsula cultural life.

Santa Cruz County has seen a comparable surge in community awareness and support. Think Local First first public meeting took place at Bookshop Santa Cruz, our own local treasure, in October 2007. We invite participation by members of the public to share ideas and continue the momentum of the movement. Think Local First and its members emphasize the link between our unique, thriving local economy and a unique, thriving town. It’s a simple concept, really: what goes around comes around. It’s about creating our community – together.

thinklocalsantacruz.org