“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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 communities play a vital role in our nation’s framework, making substantial contributions to food production, cultural heritage, and environmental preservation. By advocating for resources for these communities’ unique challenges, we can help preserve their invaluable contributions to our collective well-being.”
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 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 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.”
“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.”
“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 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 heartbeat of America, representing determination and innovation. I am proud to come from a long line of farmers, cultivators, and small-town spirit. The incredible work ethic and uncompromising resiliency of those who make up rural communities is important and must be advocated for.”
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.
