EXPLORING STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND EQUITY IN RURAL COMMUNITIES

The Rural Assets Final Report highlights that improving rural health and equity requires shifting from a deficit-focused lens toward one that leverages the inherent strengths of rural people and places. By mapping individual, organizational, community, and cultural assets—from volunteerism and entrepreneurship to faith-based institutions, natural resources, and strong cultural bonds—the report identifies how rural resilience, social cohesion, and cross-sector partnerships can drive sustainable change. The recommendations emphasize investing in local leadership, tailoring funding approaches, strengthening infrastructure like broadband, and fostering collaboration across health, economic, and cultural sectors. This aligns directly with Aspen CSG’s mission to advance asset-based development and long-term community well-being: it underscores how recognizing and cultivating rural capacities, rather than only addressing deficits, creates the foundation for inclusive, lasting prosperity