Mitchell Main Street and Beyond found its new leader in Ashley Endres, who was recently named the new executive director for the nonprofit organization.
The Mitchell native will begin her new role on Oct. 13, just in time for the upcoming Halloween events and festivities that are hosted by Mitchell Main Street and Beyond. Endres, 34, has been actively involved in the community throughout much of her life, which includes over three years of volunteer experience with the Davison County 4-H program and the Dakota Kids Club.
“I’ve always been an active community member. I am excited to get out and meet all of the businesses and the members,” Endres said. “I’ve been a leader in the 4-H program over the last couple years, and that has been a very good experience. It’s something that will help me with the role.”
Mitchell Main Street and Beyond is a nonprofit organization that was created over a decade ago with the mission to improve downtown Mitchell and spur growth for local businesses. Each year, the group hosts around 10 community events, including First Fridays on Main and Wingapalooza. As of now, there are around 100 business members of Mitchell Main Street and Beyond.
Endres will take over for interim Executive Director Nikki Beukelman, who served in the role for the past year. Beukelman took on the interim role after former Executive Director Jared Indahl transitioned to a new role with the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce.
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While COVID-19 may affect the event schedules this year, Endres is eager to begin coordinating her first events that will include Trick or Treating on Main and the Parade of Lights prior to the Christmas holiday.
“I love event planning and organizing kids birthday parties and such, so I’m excited for that to begin,” she said. “
Endres was born and raised in Mitchell, and graduated from Mitchell Technical College. She and her husband, Ryan, have four children they are raising in the community.
She hopes to utilize her close community ties to help grow the businesses and members of Mitchell Main Street and Beyond.
“Being able to use the resources in the community and talking to people I know will be helpful with this role,” Endres said. “COVID-19 is kind of putting a ripple into things, but I’m hoping to incorporate some ideas that allow us to still have the events that we host.”
