These days, I feel a bit like Ross Geller holding the couch on the stairway in an episode of Friends, repeatedly shouting “pivot!”
I’ve been debating about when to share some things, waiting to see if some clarity would arrive regarding very murky situations. That has not yet happened. And I feel the need to keep pushing forward.
In regard to the Northwest Rural Investment Strategy (NWRIS), two of our key partners (the USDA Rural Development offices in Oregon and Washington) have had significant reductions in staff over the last two months, with additional reductions in force expected in the future. Our cooperative agreement with the Washington USDA RD office was frozen in late January and remains so. This agreement funded our work with NWRIS, including planning the annual Summit and helping with the work in our Rural Opportunity, Advancement, and Resilience (ROAR) communities, formerly known as pilot communities. These realities, combined with the current state budget situation and travel restrictions, make a 2025 NWRIS Summit unlikely.
“Pivot!” PRWA, as the State Rural Development Council, is working to establish an annual conference centered on the needs of rural Washington communities and attended by those who can help meet those needs, especially those representing private investment and philanthropic entities. We’re working on some wonderful partnerships – stay tuned. And if your organization would like to sponsor such an event, please reach out.
“Pivot!” When one funding source disappears, others must be found. I am thrilled and grateful to say that other entities have provided support to bridge the gap and our ROAR community work will not be adversely affected.
I don’t remember if Ross and friends ultimately got the couch up the stairs, but PRWA certainly has. Thanks to help from our friends.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Jody
