The Office of Rural Prosperity enlisted the Kansas Sampler Foundation to listen and learn from Kansans ages 21-39 to find ways to help recruit and retain young people in rural Kansas communities. We received more than 500 survey forms from every county and Marci Penner interviewed the 175 rural Kansans who agreed to that process. The result is a report that reflects the collective thoughts of these young people. Here is a summary version.
This subset of the rural population is looking for a place to make a difference, to be part of a welcoming and engaged community, and to provide for their family in a satisfying work environment. High speed internet, housing, child care and a culture of open minds and positivity were the issues that came up most often. But there was much more.
The report provides context and meaning to potential actions for state government, local government, businesses, non-profit and philanthropic organizations, and community members who want to invest in the future of their communities.
Supporting young rural Kansans supports everyone in rural Kansas. And when rural Kansas does well, the entire state benefits. Good things can happen when we start listening to and believing in our young people.
For more information contact marci@kansassampler.org or sarah.green@kansassampler.org.