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Developing Communities

All Developing Communities Content

Bedroom loft in a local lodge.

Energize! Lodging in Wessington Springs

In addition to the multitude of things that make the 2023 Energize! host community of Wessington Springs distinct, there is an abundance of unique lodging opportunities. Learn some of the countless benefits of staying local during your travels!

Young man and woman working on a construction plan.

Creating Vibrant Places

SDSU Extension’s community vitality team supports citizens in their efforts to enhance the qualities that make their community special.

2022 Energize Conference attendees.
May 31

ENERGIZE! Exploring Innovative Rural Communities Conference

SDSU Extension will host its fifth annual Energize! Exploring Innovative Rural Communities conference May 31-June 1 in Wessington Springs, South Dakota.

Young couple with moving truck.

Understanding the New Folks in Town

In rural communities, making an effort to understand newcomers better may result in them staying in your community longer, while also attracting more people like them.

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.

Calculator, pen, and notebook with "Budget Planning" written on it.

SDSU Extension Introduces Money Mentor Program

October 12, 2022

SDSU Extension recently launched a community volunteer program to help South Dakotans learn how to facilitate educational programming and become a master in financial knowledge and skills.

Wichita, Kansas waterfront.

SDSU Extension Presents at 76th Annual Meeting of Midwestern Legislative Conference

August 19, 2022

Kara Harders, SDSU Extension Community Vitality Field Specialist, presented at the 76th Annual Meeting of the Midwestern Legislative Conference (MLC) held in Wichita, Kansas, July 10-13, 2022.

Group of people having discussion over coffee

Creative Placemaking

Creative placemaking can use arts, culture, and design to stimulate dialogue, promote economic development, and catalyze systemic changes that are essential to the development of communities.

Diverse group of community members putting their hands together.

The Importance of Dialogue for Racial Justice and Equity in South Dakota

Recent census data showed that the state of South Dakota is rapidly becoming more diverse. What does this mean and how does it impact our communities?

Diverse group of community volunteers working outdoors.

The Impact of Cultural Change in Rural Community Development

Rural communities often have deeply rooted cultural traditions, but are facing unprecedented changes. Diversity and inclusion are becoming essential components in creating vibrant and thriving rural communities.