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Project Overview
The MDC Rural Forward program provides capacity-building support to rural leaders, organizations, and coalitions to achieve equitable systems change. We work collaboratively to provide program-wide guidance, identify opportunities for inclusive community engagement, and develop technical assistance and support programs across rural communities in the South.
Our Roots
Rural Forward began as part of the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust’s Healthy Places NC Initiative. After fulfilling its 10-year $100 million commitment to build capacity across rural counties toward better health outcomes, Rural Forward continues to provide services to communities across North Carolina and beyond.
Services and Support
Rural Forward provides the following services:
- Capacity building
- Strategic planning
- Leadership coaching and support
- Fund development coaching
- Resource management
- Relationship brokering
- Facilitation and documentation
- Evaluation support
- Conflict mediation
- Training and skills-building
- Policy advocacy support
- Disaster recovery support
Issues Areas Served
Rural Forward supports communities in addressing the following issue areas: access to care, disaster recovery, rural infrastructure, social determinants of health, and healthy eating and active living.
Outcomes
Outcomes of Rural Forward’s work include:
- Strong local leadership and skills
- Stronger strategic plans
- Greater focus on community collaborations and partnerships
- More inclusive efforts in community initiatives
- Stronger evaluation measures
- Greater access to local, regional, statewide, and national resources
If you are interested in more on this program, please contact Brandy Bynum Dawson