Fourteen Montana communities have been chosen to take part in the fifth annual Reimagining Rural virtual community gathering series, a free program offered by Montana State University Extension to inspire rural vitality and innovation.
The series, which runs on Feb. 4, 11, and 18, will feature presentations from rural experts and success stories from small towns across Montana. The sessions will be streamed online to local groups gathered in person, where community members will engage in facilitated discussions on how to apply new ideas in their towns.
This year’s participating communities include Cut Bank, Dillon, Ekalaka, Forsyth, Fort Benton, Fromberg, Glasgow, Glendive, Harlem, Havre, Jordan, Rudyard, Thompson Falls, and Wolf Point.
“2025 marks the fifth year for the series, which has seen success in small towns,” said Jennifer Anderson, MSU Extension community vitality associate specialist and program coordinator. “Past participants have found it to be a great way to spark local conversations about resilience and community growth.”
Since its inception, 53 Montana communities have participated in Reimagining Rural.
“Many small towns face challenges without the resources to address them, leading to negativity and despair,” Anderson said. “This program helps shift perspectives, strengthen relationships, and inspire resilience.”
Reimagining Rural is sponsored by the Montana Community Foundation.
By: DNU staff