Jepson School to Study Solutions to Rural Issues Under Annie E. Casey Foundation Grant
June 20, 2001
The Jepson School of Leadership Studies at the University of Richmond has received a $75,000 grant from The Annie E. Casey Foundation to launch a national research project documenting the most effective strategies to support children, youth and families in rural America.
The project, called Rural Solutions, will identify national and regional agencies, nonprofit organizations and others who are helping rural American families deal with reduced population, low incomes, healthcare and other issues. The best "rural solutions" will be profiled as models for adoption in other rural areas nationwide. Strategies for local implementation of the best programs also will be published.
"Rural America is facing tough challenges as communities address pervasive problems such as poverty, healthcare, out-migration, aging, and education," said Monica Gillespie, project manager of Rural Solutions. "We are concerned about the effect that these problems are having on families. Our goal is to identify solutions that strengthen families and to share that information with practitioners, policy makers, and citizens, so that others may learn from what is working."
Jepson School faculty members will supervise students in the collection and preparation of data about rural service programs nationwide. The entire project supports the foundation's commitment to improving the lot of American children.
"The Annie E. Casey Foundation believes that children do well when families do well, and families do better when they live in supportive communities," said Miriam Shark, the foundation's senior associate. "Rural Solutions provides an opportunity to learn from rural communities that have created strong and connected families. We are pleased to be working with the University of Richmond on this important research."
Richmond President William E. Cooper said the grant opens new research opportunities to undergraduates, a goal of the university's recently approved strategic plan.
"We're excited to partner with The Annie E. Casey Foundation in a project of this scope and importance," Cooper said. "This initiative not only allows the university to take part in the national conversation on rural issues, but also gives a meaningful undergraduate research opportunity to our students."
"Experiences like Rural Solutions are what will propel Richmond students to greater intellectual development and greater achievements after college," he said.