The town of Hope plans to take part in a program that could make the town a Stellar Community.

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs issues the Stellar Community awards which lead to millions of dollars for projects in small towns.

Hope officials says the town plans to take part in a new Hometown Collaboration Initiative, which it sees as a first step toward becoming a Stellar Community. Town manager J.T. Doane explains that if accepted, the town will be assigned a coach to help guide it through the process and to develop in one of three areas, leadership, business growth and economic development.

Town Council president Clyde Compton said officials are dedicated to making Hope the best town in Indiana.

North Vernon was chosen as a Stellar Community five years ago, which unlocked more than $13.8 million dollars in funding for downtown projects.

More information on the Hometown Collaboration Initiative is available here.