🌽 Overview
The "Corn Bred Cornbread" a vibrant initiative spearheaded by Iowa's Gen Z and expertly facilitated by Hip-Hope's impactful youth development programs, is a dynamic effort aimed at rebranding Iowa as the "Corn Bred State" and establishing Cornbread as its official food. This movement transcends mere culinary preference; it's a strategic endeavor to cultivate a strong sense of pride in Iowa's unique identity and leverage this pride as a powerful tool for youth retention and future prosperity, while intentionally bridging urban-rural, age, and socioeconomic gaps to foster a unified #oneiowaculture.
To empower Iowa's youth to define, celebrate, and promote the state's authentic identity, fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity while building a unified #oneiowaculture.
To rebrand Iowa through a youth-led movement that champions contemporary culture, establishes Cornbread as a unifying symbol, and bridges societal divides to promote a unified identity.
- Rebranding Iowa: Highlighting innovation and the "Corn Bred" ethos.
- Elevating Cornbread: A modern culinary symbol of unity and heritage.
- Youth Empowerment: Platforming Gen Z leadership and creativity.
- Talent Retention: Inspiring youth to stay and thrive in Iowa.
- Economic Development: Showcasing diverse sectors of opportunity.
- Bridging Divides: Promoting unity across urban, rural, generational, and class lines.
- Future Engagement: Connecting youth to Iowa’s civic and development future.
Annual Celebration: Held on the last Saturday of July, fully youth-led, celebrating Iowa’s future through innovation, culture, and community.
- Youth-Led Exhibition – Interactive showcases in tech, health, fashion, and more.
- Food Innovation – Spotlight on creative takes on Cornbread and local cuisine.
- Health & Wellness – Mental health and fitness initiatives for equitable access.
- Live Music – Performances from diverse youth-led music groups.
- Career Fair – Youth meet employers and explore career paths.
- Fashion & Design – Celebrating inclusive Iowa style from young designers.
- Tech Innovation Hub – Youth-led STEM and startup showcases.
- Outdoor Recreation – Promoting Iowa’s natural beauty and recreation.
- Engagement Zone – Civic education and future planning for Iowa.
A statewide lead-up week with daily themes to engage all regions:
- Media Monday: Youth media and podcast storytelling.
- Tech Tuesday: Coding, tech tours, and youth tech panels.
- Wellness Wednesday: Online fitness, nutrition, and mental health sessions.
- Thriving Thursday: Career events, workshops, and youth entrepreneurship.
- Fun Friday: Games, trivia, and Cornbread recipe swaps.
- Soulful Sunday: Gospel Hip Hop concert celebrating unity and faith.
- Music Saves: Creative expression through music and cultural identity.
- HUSTLENOMICS: Youth entrepreneurship and financial literacy.
- Executive M.O.L.D: Leadership and event management development.
- Youth: Leadership, experience, and a strong connection to Iowa’s future.
- Hip-Hope: Demonstrates program impact and fosters community unity.
- State of Iowa: Rebranding, increased engagement, and youth retention.
- Businesses: Access to future workforce and branding opportunities.
- Community: Stronger unity and celebration of diversity.
Partner with Hip-Hope to support the "Corn Bred Cornbread" movement. Your support fuels youth empowerment, unites Iowa, and builds a bold, inclusive future as #oneiowaculture.