09/30/2024
THIS is
Continuing the focus on The timing was perfect with the Journal-Advocate 10 under 40 recognition. I want to highlight Jordan Marcus story. I think it's equally important to highlight the fact that his family played a big role in his return. Similar to my story. Northeast CO folks, YOU are key to bringing people back.
Awesome story about Jordan's return to the area and the great things he is doing. With multiple groups taking different approaches to this same idea, the overarching theme is that there is vast opportunity in rural areas. Go take a look and you just might be surprised. Consider making the move and filling that critical job role, moving a business operation that can bring value and job opportunities to the area, or launch that startup you have always dreamed about. Rural is rich in support, community, and resources! JOIN US and truly make positive impact!
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Sterling native Jordan Suter believes being involved in the community is the way to bring about change.
Suter left Sterling after high school, playing baseball in college while pursuing his degree in biology, and then spent five and a half years as a forensic scientist.
It was family ties that inspired his desire to return to his hometown – Suter is the fourth generation on his mom’s side to live here, and the third on his dad’s side – but he didn’t know what he’d be able to do for a career, given his background in biology.
Then he got an job offer from Thrivent, which he was familiar with because his family had worked with the financial planning firm.
“I was really thankful to be able to do that, because I had always wanted to be around my family and serve this community, but had never really had the opportunity,” he said.
Suter moved back about two and a half years ago and jumped right into getting as involved within the community as possible.
His own passion for the community shines through when he talks about how he would encourage others to consider living and working in Sterling.
He said he’d encourage those from the Front Range and other urban areas to come visit the community and see what it’s about, because he feels that they might have misconceptions about rural Colorado based on clichés that don’t capture the generous spirit of the people here.
And for those who moved away but might be open to returning, like him, his plea is more direct: “We need you out here. This community needs more young people… that care and want to make a difference, and you can only make a difference if you get involved.”
“Being able to coach high school kids and show them that it is cool to leave, do your thing and go learn about the world, go experience some stuff – there’s nothing wrong with that. But coming home, there’s nothing wrong with that. You can be a good person and care about your community and just serve; that’s the whole point.”
“I just want to leave a mark, and hopefully it’s a positive one,” he said.
Return to Rural is a grassroots campaign coordinated by the Northeast CO Economic Developers to facilitate opportunities to bring economic prosperity by helping people find what they need to come home! Help your community thrive and sign up or refer your friends and family! This information
