“Growing up on a farm makes me appreciate the people who live in rural communities. Twenty percent of Americans live in rural America, but only six percent of philanthropy reaches them. I’m excited to roll up my sleeves with our rural partners to improve the future of rural life.”
“I believe rural communities deserve recognition and advocacy because of the crucial contributions they make to society. It’s incumbent upon us all to be informed advocates for our hard-working, rural neighbors.”
Rural is home to me. Rural communities represent a unique quality of life and a level of connection. Like many across the country, I appreciate that rural communities are a constant source of innovation that enriches every aspect of life. I’m excited to help support future generations of thriving rural communities.
“Rural communities are beautiful places inhabited by resilient people, but they are also fragile in a way. Almost a quarter of America’s elderly and one in five children live in rural areas. I want the people who live in rural communities to know that they are important to America’s past and future.”
“The strength of our country is built from the strength, resilience, and powerful histories of rural communities. A thriving rural landscape is essential to the long-term success of every community nationwide, and I am proud to be a thriving rural champion and a part of this mission.”
“Thriving rural communities are built on strong relationships, shared values, and local pride. I’m committed to supporting the people and places that make rural life vibrant, resilient, and full of possibility.”
“Advocating for thriving rural communities means investing in the people who power them—championing their potential, celebrating their impact, and ensuring their voices and economic opportunities are as strong as the communities they call home.”
“Though I didn’t grow up in a rural community, I chose to make one my home — an experience that deepened my appreciation for the resilience and connection rural life offers. I’m proud to work with a team that’s supporting meaningful, lasting change in rural communities today and for future generations.”
“Rural matters to me because it encompasses the heart and soul of many communities across the globe, requiring resiliency in order to maintain a great community, vital relationships and ongoing engagement of the residents.”
“I believe providing access to quality healthcare and education is essential to supporting rural Missouri and Kansas. I want to take part in advocating for rural areas to ensure they receive the necessary resources to cultivate and sustain a thriving community.”
“Rural America is a vital component of the economy and integral element of our community yet faces disproportionate challenges in many domains. As a veteran, I commit myself to being a champion for positive change for all, and I am honored to be with an organization of committed, capable doers aligned to that mission.”
“Growing up in Southeast Kansas, I have seen firsthand that rural communities are a vital piece of our nation’s social and economic fabric. I am proud to be part of a foundation that helps support them to grow and thrive for generations to come.”
“Rural communities play vital roles in our economy, food systems, and culture, and they are also some of America’s best incubators of local leadership. We are all stronger when rural communities are active parts of our national fabric. It is an honor to be part of an organization that supports rural communities in an open, honest, and regular way.”
“Rural communities matter because they are the backbone of our nation, where the spirit of hard work and resilience thrives. In these communities, the beauty of nature, the simplicity of life, and the sense of belonging are cherished, reminding us of our roots and the importance of preserving our heritage.”
“Rural communities are the lifeblood of America – daily life is impossible without their numerous contributions. I am grateful to be part of an organization dedicated to listening and engaging with individual community members, empowering them to thrive, and helping to preserve and exemplify their culture to all.”
“Rural made me who I am today. Growing up in a small town I had a support network of family, friends, and neighbors who believed in caring for all members of our community. This spirit was, and is, entrenched in small-town life. It’s an honor to be part of a foundation woven of this same fabric.”
The Patterson Family Foundation was established to reinvest in rural communities and cultivate values of education and hard work for current and future generations. Currently, the Foundation is led by the adult children of the Patterson Family.
