The Hidden Gem of Metcalf, Illinois: Where Community Shines Bright

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Metcalf

HelloMetcalf is a video magazine containing information of interest to residents and visitors.

Fall Issue 2025 | ISSN: 3065-6958

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Where Community Shines Bright

Tucked away in the heart of Illinois, the village of Metcalf may be small in size but is big on spirit and charm. With a population that warmly embraces the essence of close-knit community living, Metcalf offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Here, neighbors aren’t just acquaintances; they often become lifelong friends. This town’s sense of togetherness is felt in every wave and smile, reinforcing the idea that you truly belong. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Metcalf provides its residents with more than just natural beauty. It's a place where families thrive in a safe, welcoming environment. Local parks offer perfect spots for leisurely strolls and carefree picnics, while nearby lakes invite fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines. The commitment to preserving these natural spaces only adds to the town’s charm and appeal. What sets Metcalf apart is its delightful local events that fill the calendar year-round. From festive parades to community potlucks, everyone has the opportunity to connect and celebrate what makes their home special. Local businesses thrive in this supportive environment, offering unique products and services that carry the personal touch of Metcalf's enterpris...

Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Metcalf who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in

the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.

Nestled in rural Edgar County, Metcalf, Illinois is a small village offering a quiet, close-knit environment with a population of just under 140 residents. Despite its modest size, Metcalf benefits from a stable local economy, with key employment sectors including health care, retail trade, transportation, warehousing, and manufacturing, reflecting a diversified base for a rural community. The village’s low cost of living—well below the Illinois average—adds to its appeal for small businesses and families seeking affordability and community cohesion.([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metcalf%2C_Illinois?utm_source=openai))

While Metcalf itself lacks a formal industrial park, its location in Edgar County provides access to broader regional infrastructure and economic development resources. Businesses in the area can tap into state-level workforce and training programs, such as Illinois’ Employment Training Investment Program (ETIP), which reimburses up to 50% of approved training

costs for expanding companies.([kedcorp.org](https://www.kedcorp.org/ChooseKewanee/IncentivesFinancialAssistance/WorkforceDevelopmentPrograms.aspx?utm_source=openai))

At the state level, Illinois continues to invest in workforce development and advanced manufacturing through initiatives like the Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity (MICRO) Act, offering tax credits and training support for semiconductor, microchip, and quantum computing manufacturing...