Extension Accepting Applications For Reimagining Rural Program
Montana State University Extension is accepting applications from rural Montana communities until Dec. 15 to participate in Reimagining Rural, a three-part virtual gathering planned for January and February.
Reimagining Rural is a program that brings community members in towns across the state together for three evening events to hear speakers share their rural success stories and how to get things done in small towns. Following the talks, where members of local communities gather to listen to remote speakers, is a facilitated conversation about ideas that might work in their communities.
“Reimagining Rural brings fresh ideas to small towns that spark big ideas of what is possible for their future,” said Tara Mastel, MSU Extension community vitality associate specialist. “Everything about the program is specifically designed for small towns that are powered by volunteers.”
More than 48 communities across Montana have participated in the Reimagining Rural virtual gathering since it began in 2020.
“Participants come away inspired to start new projects and engage new volunteers to work toward a more vibrant future for their town,” Mastel said.
Sessions are planned for 6-8 p.m. on Jan. 29, Feb. 12 and Feb. 26. The program is free, but communities must apply to participate. Applications are due Dec. 15. To learn more or download the application, visit msuextension.org/communitydevelopment/ reimagine- rural.html. Interested community members can learn more about the application process and about the successes of past participants at a webinar set for 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18. The webinar is part of a yearlong series planned for community volunteer leaders called “Inspiration Hour.” To learn more about Reimagining Rural or to register for the October webinar, visit montana.edu/extension/ communitydevelopment/ RRinspiration.html.
Reimagining Rural is made possible through a collaboration between MSU Extension and the Montana Community Foundation. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available to support rural community projects.
For more information, contact Mastel at tara.mastel@montana.edu.
