SIDNEY — Amy Breinich, executive director of Sidney Alive, informed Sidney Rotary members about her new organization during the club’s recent meeting.

Sidney Alive was established in January. Its purpose is to nurture the growth of downtown Sidney while preserving resources, increasing accessibility and benefiting the Shelby County community. Sidney Alive has taken the place of the Downtown Business Association.

Sidney Alive is funded by the cty of Sidney Tourism Fund, corporate sponsorships, private donors and ticket sales. Since Sidney Alive is a tax-deductible, nonprofit organization, it is eligible for grant funding.

According to Breinich, people want to be in vibrant, diverse cities where they can work, play, and learn within walkable distances. Individuals and families are looking for a place that provides them with creative office spaces, urban living options, walkability, unique boutiques and great restaurants.

Sidney Alive works with downtown businesses to help them reach a higher level of success by improving visibility, offering consulting services as well as connecting them with other organizations that can further assist them. Additionally, Sidney Alive will promote downtown Sidney to encourage new businesses and work with current property owners to rent or sell spaces downtown.

Breinich said the new organization will contribute to the cultural well-being of Sidney by promoting a “sense of place,” by encouraging the community to shop locally at downtown businesses as well as at the Great Sidney Farmers Market. Sidney Alive will host more than 20 events and activities throughout the year, including summer Third Friday Flings, the Great Downtown BBQfest, bocce ball tournament, National Night Out, Kids around the Square and the Winter Wonderland Parade. Sidney Alive will also partner with other local organizations, including the Historic Sidney Theatre, Shelby County United Way and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

“Sidney has lots to offer,” Breinich said. “Let’s work together to take a cutting-edge approach to plan the renaissance of our historic downtown and the beautiful spaces within it. Revitalized, mixed-use buildings that provide great living spaces, professional, retail, and food establishments are the future of your downtown Sidney.”