Exploring Innovation in Rural Areas
Big Things Are Happening in Small Communities

By Amy Simpkins
Community Affairs Specialist
Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

Community developers are innovators by nature—or maybe out of necessity. For many decades, they have worked to raise awareness, build consensus and improve social and economic conditions in communities, often with few resources.

The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis celebrated the culture of innovation that is so much a part of the community development profession during its first-ever “Exploring Innovation in Community Development Week” from April 14-18.

Activities across the Bank’s Eighth District drew national attention to the community development industry and its important role in American life. Speakers, resource fairs and workshops focused on innovation and turning ideas into results.

From all of these discussions, a common theme emerged: Innovation can be found in all types of communities, facing all types of challenges. Innovation is not limited to big cities or urban areas. There is story after story of community development professionals, elected officials and citizens in small towns across the Eighth District embracing innovation as a way to preserve their communities.

Certainly, rural areas have unique assets and face unique opportunities. But one thing is for sure, big things are happening in small communities. A perfect example is Dyess, Ark. ...FULL STORY

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