Engage with Main Street Columbus
Main Street Columbus is a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing and promoting historic downtown Columbus, Mississippi, through economic development, events, beautification, and small business support.
If you're looking to engage with Main Street Columbus, here are the best ways to get involved, whether you're a resident, business owner, or visitor.
Main Street Columbus hosts and supports events throughout the year which draw thousands to our downtown streets and contribute to the economic vitality of Columbus. Attending these events is one of the easiest ways to support local vendors and experience downtown energy.
Want to be more hands-on? Volunteering is a great way to network and directly impact downtown growth. There are various ways you can be a treasured volunteer.
Help us organize and implement an event, help our Design Committee with beautification projects, sponsor an event, participate in downtown promotions, and more!
meet our board of directors
Dedicated Individuals Behind Main Street Columbus
At Main Street Columbus, our Board of Directors works tirelessly to revitalize downtown Columbus and foster a vibrant community. Each member plays a crucial role in driving our mission forward, ensuring that every initiative reflects our commitment to inclusivity and growth.
Dr. Jody Andrews - Board President
Coffee House on 5th
Lakeysucha Bailey
Columbus Light & Water
Lauren Barker - Board Vice President
Farm Bureau Insurance
Penny Bowen
Penny Bowen Designs
Shannon Bowen - Past President
Allen Jones Used Cars
Jennifer Brady
Friend of Main Street Columbus
Amber Brislin
Brislin, Inc.
Cody Coleman
Elevation Real Estate Group
James Hazard
BankFirst
Kym Holley
Bubble the Day Spa
Anika Perkins - Board Secretary & Treasurer
Mississippi University for Women
George Irby
City of Columbus
Bart Lawrence
The New Princess Theater
Carrie Martin
The Columbus-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce
Carrie Pannell
Downtown Nutrition
Jason Sharp
Mitchell McNutt & Sams
Kevin Stafford
Neel- Schaffer Engineers
meet our executive director
Barbara Bigelow
Barbara Bigelow has been the Executive Director of Main Street Columbus since 2013.
Over the years, Barbara has championed hundreds of thousands of dollars in beautification and community service—murals, lights, parks transformed—all while orchestrating some of the most successful events in the state.
In 2025 she was awarded the Charles Beasley Outstanding Director of the Year - This award is given by the Mississippi Main Street Association to a Main Street Director who has shown outstanding service to his or her community and Main Street program.
meet our staff
Chelsea Best
Hitching Lot Farmers' Market Coordinator
Main Street Columbus Office Assistant, Event Planner
Chelsea Best has been with Main Street Columbus since 2022. She coordinates the Hitching Lot Farmers' Market and has expanded the market to include a Kid's Entrepreneur Day - as she believes kids are the future of the market. She has made many efforts in scheduling educational, healthy, and fun activities during the Sizzling Second Saturdays each market season.
Downtown Columbus holds a special place in her heart. She works closely with local small businesses for events and promotions throughout the year. If she isn't working at the Main Street Columbus office, she is either creating art, reading, or practicing martial arts.
info@columbusmainstreet.com
662-328-6305
Get Involved with Main Street Columbus
How You Can Make a Difference
What volunteer opportunities are available?
Main Street Columbus offers a variety of volunteer roles, including event support and community outreach. Whether you want to help at the Market Street Festival or assist with local initiatives, there’s a place for you!
What are the expectations for volunteers?
Volunteers are expected to commit to their roles, attend training sessions, and actively participate in events. We value reliability and enthusiasm, as every contribution helps strengthen our community. Must be 18+ years old to volunteer.
What benefits do volunteers receive?
Volunteers gain valuable experience, meet new people, and have the opportunity to make a real impact in the community. Additionally, volunteers receive exclusive invitations to events and recognition for their contributions.How can businesses get involved as sponsors?
Businesses can support Main Street Columbus through sponsorships. Sponsorship opportunities include event sponsorship, program support, and community initiatives, providing visibility and engagement with local residents.
What are the expectations for sponsors?
Sponsors are expected to provide financial or in-kind support and engage with the community through their sponsorship. This partnership is a collaborative effort to enhance the vibrancy of downtown Columbus.What are the benefits of becoming a sponsor?
Sponsorship offers businesses increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to demonstrate community commitment. Sponsors are recognized at events and in promotional materials, enhancing their brand presence.How can community organizations partner with Main Street Columbus?
Community organizations can partner with us by collaborating on events, sharing resources, and supporting local initiatives. Together, we can create a stronger, more vibrant downtown.
Join the Movement
Become a vital part of Main Street Columbus by volunteering, sponsoring, or signing up for a membership to help us revitalize our downtown.
