Thrive reps meet with Manila citizens

Ray Benson, University of Arkansas Mississippi County Extension Service chairman and member of Moving Manila Forward, welcomed a group of local citizens from Manila Tuesday morning, March 16,  to meet with representatives of Thrive, a Brand Consultancy/Graphic Design team. Also attending were two Manila High School students.

Manila Mayor Wayne Wagner and the city council approved the company to create a website.

“The team is here to meet with people from the community,” Benson said. “They want your feedback for what is important to Manila.”

Ben Massey presents his team's idea for a Manila event and logo.

Benson introduced Will Staley, co-founder and executive creative director; Ryan Biles, director of development; and Sarah Melby, associate creative director. Staley gave the group an introduction of their non-profit organization. The meeting will help to let the design team know about Manila as they develop the webpage and a branding initiative.

Staley asked the group about their ideas of what is the essence of Manila. He talked about programs developed for students and their importance in the future of the communities.

They said their work is about consistency in brand marks for individual towns.

“What is the story of the citizens of the community?” Staley asked.

Ideas were shared with hands-on projects creating event ideas that would let Manila be known for.

They talked about how to build on the assets of the community. They also encouraged the leaders to work with the young people of the community.

Several ideas were shared and the team will take those ideas back to their home base in Helena. Thrive began in 2009  by offering strategic planning and graphic design services to local small businesses and nonprofits in Helena.