Hartford, CT - April 19, 2012 - Connecticut Main Street Center has announced the hiring of Christine A. Schilke as the organization's Communications & Office Manager.  Ms. Schilke began her tenure at CT Main Street Center this morning.

A graduate of American University in Washington DC, Schilke was the Planning & Communications Coordinator at the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority from 2003-2010 where she oversaw internal and external communications.  She organized numerous training events, moderated the organization's website, and performed administrative functions as both the Planning & Communications Coordinator and more extensively as Legal Secretary at CHFA.  Ms. Schilke also has extensive experience with social media, a skill that will be immediately utilized as CT Main Street Center plans to significantly expand this aspect of its communications plan.

"We are thrilled to welcome Christine to our CT Main Street team," said Kimberley Parsons-Whitaker, Associate Director.  "She brings great intelligence and energy to our network of 64 communities throughout the state, and we look forward to incorporating her ideas into increasing the visibility and strengthening the name recognition of CT Main Street Center."

Connecticut Main Street Center is a statewide nonprofit that inspires great Connecticut downtowns, Main Street by Main Street.  Its mission is to be the champion and leading resource for vibrant and sustainable Main Streets as foundations for healthy communities.

  

Since 2005 Connecticut Main Street membership has grown by over 600%, from 10 to 64 communities.  Since the Connecticut Main Street program began in 1995, Designated Main Street programs have generated over $994 million in public and private reinvestment in their downtowns.  Over the same time, 4121 net new businesses have opened and 2,475 net new jobs have been created.  For every $1 spent on a local Main Street program, $73.13 has been reinvested in CT Main Street designated downtowns, making the Main Street initiative one of the most successful economic development programs in the country.

  

Connecticut Main Street Center is supported by Founding Sponsors, The Connecticut Light and Power Company and the State of Connecticut Department of Economic & Community Development, and by Growth Sponsors, The United Illuminating Company and the Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office.