The communities of rural America are facing a range of critical problems. In some cases, these problems are heavy out-migration and a loss of jobs. In others, it is rapid growth from suburban sprawl, the location of a new facility, or an influx of retirement population. These problems affect the vitality of the community, its design and sense of place. The “Your Town” workshop focuses on an important aspect of community spirit and community integrity: the process of design. The workshop aims specifically to introduce small town and rural technical assistance providers and decision makers to the role of design in community planning.

Workshop Content. The workshop course material addresses a range of issues in rural community planning. The curriculum focuses on the process by which rural communities construct a vision about their future, evaluate natural and cultural assets, and implement decisions about how their community should look and function. The aim is not to promote specific answers to specific questions but, rather, a framework for problem solving. Materials are presented in a highly visual format, principally through slides and maps. The workshop includes slide lectures, group discussions, workshops, case-study presentations, and group problem solving on a hypothetical “Your Town.” Much of the workshop is accomplished in small groups which assigned at registration.

Rooms are NOT available at Camp McDowell on Tuesday, August 29, 2017!

CANCELLATION FEE:

A non-refundable cancellation fee will be charged if you cancel after July 28. (Registration may be transferred to another person at no cost if the application is received by July 28.

Please contact Martha Whitson at martha@yourtownalabama.org with any cancellation and transfer requests.