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Female Native American rancher gazing into an open rangeland.

Taking Time for Reflection: Managing Stress With Positive Thinking

The practice of positive thinking can improve your physical and mental health, and new perspectives and optimism can bring renewed strength to managing stress on the farm and at home.

A group of attendees at the Small Business Basics course at Volga, South Dakota.

Small Business Basics

The Small Business Basics program covers an extensive list of topics, including writing or updating business plans, tax and licensing, employee relations, pricing and marketing, customer service, social media, and aspects of financing.

Two young girls enjoying healthy snacks after school. Courtesy: Bob Nichols, USDA [CC BY 2.0].

Fueled for Fun!

This activity is appropriate for Pre-K-2nd grade (ages 4-7) and can be used by classrooms, small groups, or individuals.

Baby seated at a highchair with a variety of soft, cut-up foods on its tray.

Baby-Led Weaning: An Overview

You may hear parents or some healthcare providers talking about baby-led weaning, but what is it?

White basket-style air fryer on kitchen counter next to a basket of cooked French fries.

Air Fryer 101

Air fryers are a popular household appliance. Learn the basics of selecting an air fryer that meets your needs along with some simple recipes and cooking tips!

A group of young workers sitting at a table putting their hands together.

Advantages Of Rural Community Living

At a Stronger Economies Together session held in Midland, SD in March, I asked the question “how many of you live here because of the quality of life?” Nearly everyone in the room raised a hand. So what is it about the quality of life that we so enjoy? Is it that we don’t have to deal with the hustle and bustle of traffic in the city? Is it the peace and quiet?

A group of older people sitting outside talking

What’s good about getting older?

Curious about the positive changes that come with getting older? Learn about some key mental and emotional changes that can occur in older adults, and the benefits that come with these changes!

Two young children walking in a pasture.

Why Do Young People Leave Our Rural Communities?

It’s no secret that young people are leaving our rural communities in South Dakota. If you read the newspapers or watch the news on television, you also know this isn’t a challenge that only South Dakota communities are facing; it is happening across the nation.

Family sharing a Thanksgiving meal.

Thankfulness: Creating a Culture of Gratitude

Why should we create a culture of gratitude? Research shows that feeling appreciated creates more-productive environments at work, as well as healthier, more long-lasting relationships. Learn some expert tips for getting started this holiday season!

2021 Energize! Conference attendees gathered outside a brick building.

Energize!

The Energize! Exploring Innovative Rural Communities Conference is designed to empower South Dakota’s rural communities by inviting them to network with community leaders from across the state to share success stories, get new ideas and take action to improve their own communities.