RARE - Resource Assistance for Rural Environments

After months of research and analysis exploring program models, potential organizational “homes”, and the financial implications of each, Kelley Nonprofit Consulting has outlined several potential paths forward for the RARE program to sustain and strengthen rural capacity across Oregon.

The following scenarios represent three distinct pathways for RARE’s future:

1. RARE Classic – This model closely mirrors the original RARE structure—placing members full-time within a single community or organization and maintaining the traditional cohort experience.

2. Hub & Spokes – Instead of being placed full-time at one site, members are shared across multiple aligned organizations (“spokes”) and supported by a regional or statewide partner (“hub”).

3. University-Based Model (IPRE) – RARE is absorbed into the IPRE team at University of Oregon. RARE placements are driven largely by IPRE programming and projects, with IPRE staff sharing the load of mentoring and advising RARE members.

It should come as no surprise that each scenario presents unique strengths and challenges. To determine the best path forward, the RARE Reimagined Advisory Committee and Program Director, Titus Tomlinson, have been actively exploring these options in depth. At this juncture, we have determined the “RARE Classic” and “Hub & Spoke” models are the most viable options we have on the table.

The reality is that we had hoped to have our home and funding secured at this point. That said, the current financial landscape has proven more challenging than anticipated, and we are still seeking a path forward. Despite strong support from statewide partners, host organizations, and alumni, no organization engaged in this process has committed to housing RARE moving forward.

Over the next month, Titus will continue pursuing all viable options. If a sustainable path forward cannot be secured, the program may be shut down indefinitely.

To learn more about the process and a definitive of what comes next, join us for a Zoom session on April 22, 2026 from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm, RSVP link here: oregon.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_40yvISoyPcVood0

If you’d like to read the full Strategic Plan, please visit the link here: drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Bk3cBUgp4IjPhkNskXTsR806mAEfPRdQ?usp=sharing

Last week marked an exciting milestone in the RARE Reimagined process! We officially kicked off the Discovery phase of gathering stories, data, and insights through surveys, interviews, and focus groups to help shape RARE’s future (scroll to the last photo to see the full timeline for the RARE Reimagined Process).

We launched by hosting an in-person focus group in Eugene with members, site supervisors, and partners to reflect on RARE’s history and imagine what the next chapter could look like. We’re so grateful to everyone who joined and shared their perspectives as all insights are helping us build a strong foundation for RARE and for rural Oregon. And as always, huge thanks to for hosting us.

Last week we also launched our Advisory Committee! Comprised of individuals who have experienced RARE in many ways, they collectively form a dedicated group who will help guide RARE to its next form with the gathered community feedback at the center.

Couldn’t join us in Eugene? Stay tuned for a virtual focus group coming in November!

📣 IMPORTANT RARE PROGRAM UPDATES 📣

After a brief pause on social media following the sudden termination of our AmeriCorps grant, we’re writing with some bittersweet news.

✅ The good news: On June 6th, thanks to a successful court injunction, our AmeriCorps grant for the current 2024–25 service year has been reinstated. This allows us to continue supporting our current members through the end of July—and we are so grateful for that time. Many of our members have already moved on to new opportunities, and we are incredibly proud of all they’ve contributed to rural Oregon during their service. ❤️

⚠️ The hard news: Due to ongoing uncertainty around AmeriCorps funding and how this program is supported long-term, we’ve made the difficult decision to pause the RARE AmeriCorps Program for the upcoming service year. Unfortunately, this means that most of our dedicated staff are being laid off due to lack of funding and clarity around the program’s future.

But we are hopeful that this is not the end of RARE!

RARE leadership is actively exploring how the program might reemerge under a new funding model that ensures long-term stability and greater impact. If you’d like to stay connected and help shape what’s next, please let us know by completing this VERY short survey: 🔗https://oregon.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3NMr8MbMQUTgUYK

It has been our greatest honor to serve rural Oregon for more than 30 years. THANK YOU to our RARE Family, our core statewide partners, and rural Oregon communities for your continued support. Your genuine encouragement means everything as we navigate this transition together.