Topeka is a great place to Live
Forge wants to see our region offer a welcoming community with affordable housing, diverse neighborhoods, and essential amenities, making it an ideal place for young people to settle down and thrive.
- Childcare. Forge urges local, state, and federal leaders to pursue meaningful solutions to the severe shortage of affordable, high-quality childcare: an obstacle that continues to hinder both families and businesses striving to return to work. We also encourage the State of Kansas and the City of Topeka to strengthen and expand access to existing childcare tax credits so more families can benefit from the support already available.
- Housing. The quality, quantity, affordability, and equity of available housing is not adequate to attract young professionals to live and work in our community. Forge urges the State of Kansas and City of Topeka to find solutions for housing needs for our residents, including increased access to financial benefits to first-time home buyers, incentives for new residential projects, and efforts to keep rental owners and managers accountable.
- Transportation. Forge urges The State of Kansas, The City of Topeka, MTA, and MTAA to make significant investments in modern, expanded, and diverse transportation infrastructure throughout our region.
- Environmental Stewardship. Protecting our natural environment is vital to Topeka’s long-term health and resilience. Forge supports sustainability efforts that preserve natural resources and encourage responsible development. The Topeka Riverfront project is an important step toward cleaner waterways, restored ecosystems, and better public spaces, and we support continued efforts that build a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
Topeka is a great place to Work
With a growing job market and opportunities in various industries, Forge wants to ensure our community provides young professionals with the resources and support needed to launch and advance their careers.
- Workforce Development. Shawnee County needs more resources to expand K–12 and postsecondary educational opportunities. Forge supports greater investment in workforce education and training, including reskilling and upskilling current workers. We also remain committed to strong internship, mentorship, and apprenticeship programs that develop talent and strengthen Topeka’s future workforce.
- Entrepreneurship. Forge supports creating opportunities for young professionals who are working hard to start or grow their own businesses. Empowering the next generation to drive innovation and entrepreneurship will help fuel economic vitality and strengthen efforts to build a stronger, more dynamic city for everyone.
Topeka is a great place to Play
Forge wants to see Topeka and Shawnee County boast a vibrant array of recreational activities, cultural events, and entertainment options, ensuring that young residents have ample opportunities to unwind and connect with others.
- Recreation. Forge believes access to recreation is essential to our community’s health and well-being. We support expanding and improving facilities and programs that promote active lifestyles and strengthen social connections. Prioritizing recreation will elevate quality of life and help build a more vibrant, connected Topeka.
- Arts & Entertainment. Young professionals recognize that arts and entertainment enrich our community, spark creativity, and support economic growth. We support expanding local arts initiatives and cultural programming that enhance quality of life and help attract new talent to Topeka. Investing in arts and entertainment will make our community more dynamic, inclusive, and economically strong.
Topeka is a great place to Grow
Forge supports personal and professional development through educational institutions, mentorship programs, civic engagement, and community initiatives that empower young people to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
- Voting. Young people can only fully participate in community decisions when voter registration and polling locations are easy to access. Forge supports expanding voter accessibility through vote-by-mail options, additional early voting sites, and comprehensive voter registration resources.
- Behavioral Health Resources. To meaningfully support our growing youth population, our community must ensure that accessible, affordable, and high-quality behavioral health services are readily available. Forge calls on the City of Topeka and Shawnee County to intensify their efforts to recruit and retain licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors so young people can receive the mental health care they need to thrive.
- Financial Literacy. Many young professionals have limited knowledge and skills to make informed decisions regarding their finances. As financial literacy becomes increasingly important for both high school and postsecondary students, Forge encourages Topeka-area high schools and Washburn University to continue strengthening their financial education curricula. Forge also urges community partners to expand accessible financial literacy resources for the broader public.