MDC Rural Forward
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MDC Rural Forward identifies, strengthens, and connects leaders, organizations, and coalitions in rural NC to be healthier and more thriving through capacity building and resource development.
05/21/2026
More than 1.4 million North Carolinians carry a combined $52.2 billion in student loan debt.
For many families, this debt affects everyday decisions—from paying bills and saving money to buying a home or planning for the future.
Today, MDC released new policy priorities focused on practical solutions that can reduce financial pressure and strengthen economic opportunity across North Carolina.
Read the priorities here:
🔗 https://sdrc.mdcinc.org/mdcs-policy-and-program-priorities/
At the end of April, the Rural Action Network cohort convened for the final workshop of a five-part series and to celebrate their time together as a collective group. The workshop was focused on policy solutions and opportunities.
They spent the day exploring solutions to the transportation, workforce development, housing, environmental, and childcare challenges that face their communities. The day ended with a graduation ceremony celebrating the cohort's dedication to improving the communities they live and work in.
While the learning cohort may have come to an end for now, the Rural Action Network project is just getting started! Last week, MDC launched the application for the Rural Action Network leadership council - a group across the Sandhills region of NC that will work together to set regional policy priorities and work collaboratively to amplify the voice of rural leaders.
The leadership council is for all kinds of community leaders - both grass tops (local elected officials, business owners, etc.) and grassroots (nonprofit leaders, community organizers, etc.) are welcome to apply.
Click the link below to get more information on the leadership council and apply! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qdhj7s6ZXA2Kda2rja__PUUe4sN10Fcy/view?usp=drivesdk
Applications close on June 5th! Reach out to Hetal Patel [email protected] or Diana Williams [email protected] with questions.
05/14/2026
We’re thrilled to celebrate MDC Senior Program Director Jenna Bryant on her selection to the 2026 Dole Caregiver Fellowship Class with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation
The Fellowship brings together military and veteran caregivers from across the country who are using their lived experiences to build community, raise awareness, and advocate for caregivers and military families nationwide.
Jenna’s leadership at MDC is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community care. Her selection reflects both her professional leadership and the powerful caregiving journey she brings to this work every day.
We are incredibly proud to support Jenna and grateful to see her voice and experience recognized through this prestigious national fellowship.
Learn more about Jenna’s story and the Fellowship here:
https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org/fellows/jenna-bryant
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