The NC Rural Center will begin their 2024 Rural Listening Tour this fall - an opportunity to visit 15 communities and hear and learn from partners across the state about the persistent challenges and issues facing rural communities and regions. Feedback will lead to an informed, updated Rural Center 2025 policy agenda and offer guidance on topics for the 2025 Rural Summit so they can better champion North Carolina’s 78 rural counties with legislators, policymakers, and investors. 

Attendance is welcome at any of the locations; WNC locations include:

• September 18 – Western Piedmont Community College, Morganton, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
• September 19 – Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, Boone, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
• September 24 – Southwestern Community College, Sylva, 2:00 - 4 PM
• September 25 – Tryon International Equestrian Center, Tryon, 1:00 AM - 1:00 PM

A Rural Issues Poll has also been developed to collect data on the factors affecting the economic success of rural North Carolina. The online poll asks participants to rate their concerns on various issues, rank their top priorities, and highlight the strengths of their communities.

Click here to find the other locations (also located on the map, above) and register. Help provide critical information needed from rural North Carolinians by completing this poll.

Source: Southwestern Commission/NC Rural Center