About NowWhatNH
New Hampshire offers much to those who are able to live here: a vibrant economy, excellent public schools, highly-ranked quality of life on a variety of indices, proximity to major metropolitan areas, and year-round activities. Every year, New Hampshire’s high schools, technical schools, and colleges graduate thousands of young people who would love to remain here to begin their professional lives.
But every year thousands of college graduates leave. New Hampshire has the third-worst percentage difference in the nation between the number of college graduates it produces and the number of recent college grads who remain in the state.
Why?
Among other reasons, difficulty in finding affordable housing caused by outdated land use laws.
NowWhatNH is a coalition of educators, housing industry experts, planners, and community leaders who are committed to helping New Hampshire’s communities remain strong and vibrant. Our coalition includes the Center for Ethics in Society at Saint Anselm College, New Hampshire Housing, New Hampshire Office of Planning and Development, 603 Forward, the New Hampshire Municipal Association, NH Planners Association, and more.
What NowWhatNH Does
NowWhatNH serves to make New Hampshire more sustainable, more livable, and accessible to residents of all ages by encouraging residents with diverse viewpoints, backgrounds, and life experiences to take part in municipal zoning and land use boards. Once residents have stepped up to join a board, either by registering to run for elected office or being appointed, our team of volunteers will pair you with a mentor who will be able to answer questions about the process. We are invested in your success and want to help you become as comfortable as you can be.
Our name is a call to action for addressing many of the important issues currently facing New Hampshire:
A population that is growing ever more diverse is looking for communities that meet their needs. Young professionals are searching for vibrant towns where they are able to take advantage of a vibrant nightlife, adequate childcare options, community services, convenient healthcare, arts and culture institutions, and other community gathering places for people of all ages. They highly value communities where these amenities are within a healthy walk, a short drive, or a jaunt on convenient public transportation.
We encourage young New Hampshire residents to become part of the solution.
Our Goals:
Encourage diversity on land use boards.
Create a more diverse, welcoming state.
Creating a welcoming community.
