While rural communities contribute so much to our nation, they receive a disproportionately small share of philanthropic dollars. The numbers are stark: rural areas make up 20% of the US population, yet they only receive around 7% of the nation’s philanthropic giving. This disparity has real consequences for these vital communities.

We’re not just talking about a lack of volunteer hours – which rural communities have in spades. We’re talking about the larger philanthropic investments that can fuel growth and revitalization, the kind of funding that can make a real difference. So, why does this gap exist? Is it a matter of visibility? A lack of capacity to apply for grants? Or is it something more complex? And, most importantly, what can be done to bridge this divide?

Joining us today is Jarrod Elwell, the Community Development Regional Manager for the Richmond Fed, serving Virginia and Washington, D.C. Jarrod brings nearly three decades of experience in community development and a deep passion for rural communities. He’s seen firsthand the challenges these areas face and the incredible potential they hold.

We’ll be discussing everything from the underlying reasons behind the philanthropy gap to successful revitalization projects, like those highlighted in a recent Richmond Fed article. We’ll explore the importance of patience in rural development, the best approaches to job creation, and the crucial first steps a rural leader can take to ignite positive change in their community. Join us as we unravel the complexities of rural philanthropy and explore pathways to a more equitable future for these vital communities.

The post Episode 53: The Rural Philanthropy Gap appeared first on Rural Business.

It’s been a while since we’ve recorded an episode of The Rural Business Show. It’s been a year of change for our business, Nevada Central Media, as we went from publishing one rural weekly newspaper to four.

This episode of the Rural Business Show focuses on the business of small-town news. The challenging environment has seen thousands of rural newspapers close their doors in the last decade. However, community news is not dead, and many publishers have successfully navigated this rapidly changing landscape.

One of those is Vernon Robison, former publisher of the Mesa Valleys Progress. Vernon owned the Progress from 2004 until we purchased it from him just a few months ago. In our conversation, Vernon reflects on his time running the Progress, why he decided to move on after 20 years and the challenges and rewards of the newspaper business. 

The post Episode 52: The Rural News Business appeared first on Rural Business.

Housing continues to be a difficult challenge for rural communities. Often, jobs are unfilled because of a lack of adequate and affordable housing. Attracting builders is a challenge as is an increasing number of units being used as vacation properties.

Community Rebuilds based in Moab, Utah addresses these challenges by building energy-efficient, affordable homes. The organization has created an innovative social enterprise, building affordable housing by taking several steps to reduce the cost of construction and lowering utility costs.

Rikki Epperson is Community Rebuilds’ Executive Director. She recently joined me to talk about rural housing, what we are getting right or wrong with providing it, and how her organization is contributing to positive change in this important industry.

Photos courtesy of Community Rebuilds

The post Episode 51: Rural Housing appeared first on Rural Business.