06/08/2026
Main Street Creates Connections
Our environment—the places where we live, work, and play—has a significant impact on our wellbeing, both at the individual and the societal levels.
When we don’t feel connected to our place and our neighbors, we experience negative impacts on our physical health, our quality of life, and our shared resiliency.
Historic downtowns and neighborhood business districts are rife with possibilities for fostering community connections and the many positive impacts that ripple out from social connection.
There is a strong connection between Main Street and sense of belonging. Our districts as places create opportunities for increased connection and belonging, especially when they are intentionally programmed.
CHWA’s Exterior Enhancement Grants program helps stimulate Coupeville’s economic vitality and historic preservation in the towns historic commercial district while supporting businesses, buildings, and property owners in achieving their ultimate visions. This is a great example of how CHWA’s program has helped Coupeville’s town and community in such a positive way.
One of the greatest ways that Main Street fosters belonging is through volunteerism. Washington Main Street’s Belonging in the Evergreen State report confirms that Main Street volunteers experience a high sense of belonging. Volunteerism is core to the work we do on Main Street—it helps us accomplish our goals, but it also provides opportunities for community members to work together, shoulder to shoulder, in service to our community.
We are so grateful for all of the amazing volunteers over the years that have made this sense of connection possible and helped our beautiful town of Coupeville thrive and evolve in such a positive and strong way. We look forward to keep involving the community of Coupeville in future projects.
You can learn more at preservewa.org/mainstreetweek
