The Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group worked with two advisory committees, numerous local and regional organizations, national networks, and research partners to create the Thrive Rural Framework. It truly weaves current community innovations and tested approaches for working together on critical issues to achieve equitable rural prosperity – from health, economic development, environmental stewardship to civic engagement. UNC Rural utilizes the framework as a guide in its pan-university efforts to serve North Carolina by connecting rural communities with campus partners and resources.

During this Carolina Engagement Week session, attendees will learn more about:

• Thrive Rural Framework from UNC alum and Aspen CSG co-executive director Chris Estes
• 2024 Rural Community Conversations in 15+ towns across NC from UNC Rural associate director Adam Sotak
• Rural engagement and experiences via discussion/Q&A facilitated by UNC Rural co-director Dr. Jada L. Brooks

Presenters: Dr. Jada Brooks, Co-Director, UNC Rural; Adam Sotak, MSW, Associate Director, UNC Rural; Chris Estes, Co-Executive Director, Community Strategies Group, Aspen Institute.