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Rural Stories

This series of website stories highlights strategies that are helping families "earn it," "keep it," and "grow it" in specific rural regions and communities.

Diversifying the Economy to Create Jobs and Help Families Prosper in South Dakota

Facing the common rural challenges of outmigration and a dying agricultural-based economy, the residents of Howard, South Dakota and the surrounding county looked to the economic engines of the future to create employment opportunities and increase income. From developing wind energy-related businesses to organic beef production, Miner County has re-energized its citizens, revitalized its economy, and recaptured some former community members. more >>

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Expanding College and Job-Skills Opportunities in Western Maine

In Franklin County, Maine, a group of local leaders has brought community college classes and jobs skills training to their area, giving residents new opportunities to qualify for good jobs and higher expectations for their futures. It is also providing employers—and prospective employers—with a new supply of well-educated workers. more >>

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Using Local Creativity and Entrepreneurship to Build Family-Supporting Jobs in North Carolina

This story addresses “Earn It” strategies that residents of the Appalachian region of western North Carolina are using to redevelop their economy by building on their age-old tradition of crafts and using it as a springboard to also expand their agricultural and tourism industries. An Asheville nonprofit, Handmade in America, is providing support, inspiration and know-how to help the region build on its strengths. more >>

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