Bridging the Leadership Gap in Rural Communities

Success Story

Would your community benefit if leaders and citizens came together in non-partisan settings to build a collective agenda? Do you work in rural areas that are losing legislative influence? Do you hear grumbling about lack of communication and cooperation amongst community leaders?

Our communities are in a changing world. No longer can we think of our "community" as only the town or village in which we live. In today's world we are a neighborhood of communities linked together by many common challenges and opportunities. But small rural communities are deeply rooted in their own identity and continue to nurture a history of competition.

Recognizing the need for more working relationships among the leaders of the county, the idea of a "bridging" program was envisioned by a small group of citizens in 1999. With the support of the University of Minnesota Extension Service, the idea was developed into an innovative community leadership program called "Bridging Brown County." Today, over 700 people have been involved in the program, and it is recognized for building the capacity of communities to effectively connect people and resources. It is a catalyst and a framework that supports everyone engaged in community development.

You will learn how to start building support for a program, position yourself and your organization as a key organizer, and plan quality educational experiences for elected officials and community leaders. Presentation handouts and accompanying discussion and fact sheets will help you replicate this highly visible, publicly valued program in your area.