2024 Highlights
RCA successfully launched the Rural Leaders Network, a strategic initiative designed to enhance leadership training and provide resources for rural advocates. This network empowers local community members to take on leadership roles, strengthening the foundation of rural communities across Arkansas.
2023 Highlights
Proudly launched the RCA Youth Community Health Workers Initiative, training and empowering local youth to become vital health resources within their rural communities.
2022 Highlights
RCA held the first in-person Rural Pitch Competition during Global Entrepreneurship Week. The competition took place virtually in 2020 and 2021.
2021 Highlights
RCA launched two key programs: Afterschool Initiative and Cybersecurity training program.
2020 Highlights
The Representing Rural podcast was launched in August 2020. RCA held its first Rural Pitch Competition in November 2020.
2019 Highlights
The inaugural RCA Youth Day at the Capitol was held in February. Over 250 youth from five rural school districts traveled to Little Rock for a policy and engagement learning journey. They were able to interact with legislators, sit in on legislative committee meetings, Senate and House meetings and learn about how bills become laws.
2018 Highlights
The Parent Mentor Program was launched in Eudora. The initial group of six parents/grandparents were placed in Eudora Elementary in February 2018. Originating in Chicago by the Logan Square Neighborhood Association, the Parent Mentor Program serves as an avenue to effectively engage parents inside of schools.
2017 Highlights
The RCA Youth Network was reactivated. With its Advisory Board leading, youth held activities in each region of the state to connect their peers to RCA’s mission.
2016 Highlights
Led by Lavina Grandon, a rural economic development conference was produced with 40 participants. For two days, members ventured through the North Central region to learn of ways creative economy and rural innovation had lifted communities.
2015 Highlights
RCA champions a bill to provide a waiver from Act 60 consolidation, the culmination of more than ten years of efforts to keep the issue in the forefront of governors’ and legislators’ minds. RCA opens an office in Little Rock. RCA becomes charter member of Rural Schools Collaborative with membership extending through mid-west and southern […]
