Building a brighter future for Crawford County: Makenna Laser reflects on her first months as Executive Director for The Crawford Partnership

BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Since stepping into her role on August 25, Makenna Laser, Executive Director for The Crawford Partnership, has been busy getting to know the people and projects that make Crawford County unique. Though only a few months in, her enthusiasm for collaboration and community growth is already leaving a mark.

One of the first things Makenna noticed was the warmth of the community’s welcome. “Everyone I’ve met genuinely just wants to see Crawford County be a great place to live, work, and stay,” she said. That shared sense of purpose has made her transition both exciting and rewarding.

With a background in regional workforce development, Makenna was drawn to Crawford County’s strong sense of potential. She’s especially motivated by efforts to revitalize rural communities, support local entrepreneurs, and create more opportunities for residents across the county.

Joining The Crawford Partnership, she said, felt like the perfect fit—a place where she could help elevate the work already underway and shine a light on the area’s many strengths.

One of the biggest surprises, she admitted with a smile, has been just how much impact a small team can have. “For a four-person office, the amount of things we accomplish is amazing,” she said. The Partnership’s reach spans economic development, workforce initiatives, and community engagement—each effort contributing to Crawford County’s continued progress.

Among the organization’s standout programs are CU Lead, which helps develop leadership skills across the county, and TechCred, which reimburses businesses for short-term technical training. Over the past few years, more than $260,000 in TechCred funding has been awarded to local employers and workers in just Crawford County in 2025 alone—a major investment in the county’s future workforce.

The Partnership also secured a $1.5 million EPA Brownfield Grant benefiting Bucyrus, Crestline, and New Washington. The grant supports the cleanup and revitalization of underused properties, opening doors for new development and community renewal.

Makenna pointed to these initiatives as examples of how strategic collaboration can turn challenges into opportunities.

She’s equally proud of the Microloan Program, which recently helped fund the new Birch Tree Bookery location in Bucyrus. The program offers $3,000 no-interest loans to small business owners ready to start or expand locally. Seeing Birch Tree Bookery open its doors, she said, is a perfect example of what happens when community partners work together.

Looking ahead, Makenna hopes to deepen regional connections, emphasizing that growth in neighboring areas benefits everyone. “If there’s a win in Richland, that’s a win for Crawford,” she said. “We’re better together.”

As The Crawford Partnership approaches its 20th anniversary in 2026, Makenna plans to celebrate both past achievements and the road ahead. She sees the milestone as a chance to honor the people and partnerships that built a strong foundation—and to spark new energy for the next 20 years of growth.

Her motivation is also deeply personal. As a new mom, she’s inspired by the idea of creating opportunities that allow young people to build their futures close to home. “Everything I do is about building opportunities so our children can live, work, and raise their families here,” she said. “I want to create a Crawford County where the next generation doesn’t have to leave to find opportunity.”

Reflecting on her first months, Makenna expressed gratitude for the board, staff, and community members who have supported her along the way. She credits colleagues Ashlea, Lisa, and Nancy for keeping projects moving smoothly and praised The Crawford Partnership’s board for their steady leadership and shared vision.

“Our team is small but mighty,” she said. “We’re committed to lifting up the stories and successes that make Crawford County a great place to call home.”

Makenna’s optimism and dedication embody the heart of The Crawford Partnership—an organization focused on connection, collaboration, and a bright future for all who live and work in Crawford County.