Rural Growth Initiative

12/28/2025

Honored to do a drop-in promotional video today for Mr. Steve Sheffield as I I continue to support local businesses on behalf of Rural Growth Initiative!!

08/05/2025

08/05/2025

01/24/2025

This is amazing!

01/23/2025

The lives touched along a journey are often more meaningful than the journey itself.

Case in point: Our Executive Director, Paul Daniele, recently returned from a whirlwind trip to Washington DC, where he had the incredible honor of attending the Kentucky Society of Washington's Bluegrass Ball on behalf of the Rural Growth Initiative. It was an amazing event, filled with inspiring connections and meaningful conversations.

A true highlight of Paul’s trip was meeting Tucker Carlson, head of the Tucker Carlson Network. Paul shared the origins and mission of the Rural Growth Initiative with him. He can confirm TUCKER LOVES YA'LL IN RURAL COMMUNITIES!!! Since leaving DC for rural Maine a few years ago, Tucker has developed a deep and unwavering passion for rural communities, recognizing their essential role in the fabric of our nation. His dedication to uplifting and celebrating rural America resonates strongly with the mission of the Rural Growth Initiative, and Paul was thrilled to find such shared values.

A big thank-you to Jonathan Bennett for making this trip possible—what an unforgettable weekend!

10/18/2024

We are doing a blanket drive and plan to deliver a load of blankets next week to those impacted by Hurricane Helene. We would love to have your support!

Sometimes its the simple things that make the most difference

09/08/2024

More images from PossumFest 2024. Ernest T. Bass entertained the crowd all day.

09/08/2024

It was great getting to volunteer at PossumFest 2024 in Cumberland, KY with Mrs. Erica Eldridge and her family.

08/20/2024

We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Nathan H. Nevels II to the Rural Growth Initiative team as our new Regional Director for Appalachia! With over 32 years of experience as an educator, principal, and grant writer, Nathan has dedicated his career to uplifting Southeastern Kentucky communities. His leadership as the Economic Development Director of McCreary County, where he spearheaded initiatives that transformed local economies, is a testament to his passion and commitment.

Nathan's hands-on experience, from recruiting at-home workers to revitalizing McCreary County’s business spaces and airport, showcases his remarkable ability to drive economic growth. His deep-rooted connection to Appalachia and his personal journey inspire us as he joins RGI to help other struggling communities regain prosperity.

Please join us in welcoming Nathan H Nevels to our team! Together, we look forward to making a lasting impact in the Appalachian region.

08/16/2024

Just returned from an unforgettable visit to Benham, Lynch, and Cumberland in Harlan County, Kentucky, deep in the heart of Appalachia—truly one of the most beautiful places in America and an incredible place to live and raise a family. The history here is rich, but it’s the breathtaking landscapes and the unwavering community spirit that make it so special.

We spent much of our time discussing strategies to reverse population declines and bring new growth into these incredible communities. The tender love and care that local residents pour into their homes and neighborhoods is inspiring.

We had the privilege of meeting with both seasoned and emerging leaders who are dedicated to helping the Tri-Cities area thrive. As the Rural Growth Initiative Executive Director, alongside Billy Parrish and Nathan Nevels from McCreary County, it was an honor to be part of this important work.

While challenges remain, particularly around housing and downtown revitalization, the hope and positivity we witnessed are what truly stand out. I’m excited to share a few photos that capture that spirit of hope, with more to come as our work continues.

Special thanks to Tri-Cities Main Street program and Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College for being incredible hosts! Jonathan Bennett for coordinating, Nathan Nevels, Billy Parrish for joining the Rural Growth Initiative team.