Situation
The CRDC in its first full year of operation was called upon to assist in two diverse efforts: 1) siting and planning for an statewide equestrian center and 2) the Pathways from Poverty project.

Goals

• Respond to the request for assistance from state officials and others in a planning process that addresses economic development and sustainable agriculture.
• Apply a national program to address needs of the poor in Connecticut through educating public officials.
• Include appropriate partners in each activity.

Activities 

A. Connecticut Equestrian Center
The CT Dept. of Agriculture asked for the CRDC’s assistance in review of alternative sites for an equestrian center. The center’s goals included increasing employment opportunities in the state’s horse industry, contributing to the viability of agriculture and increasing tourism by creating a nationally competitive center. Members of CRDC contributed the knowledge of their respective agencies and disciplines in reviewing site alternatives.

B. Pathways from Poverty
A member of CRDC brought this project to the CRDC to inform them of it, and to ask for support of a grant application to help fund a State of Poverty Welfare Simulation Program. The grant application was successful and the member became the Pathways from Poverty team leader. He worked with several partners including the Cooperative Extension System to organize two Welfare Simulation events. Goals of the events were to broaden public awareness of the difficulties faced by persons on welfare and/or living below the poverty line.

Initial Results
Both projects demonstrated the value of CRDC’s ability to identify partners with knowledge and resources to contribute to a team effort. 

In their diverse nature they showed the range of issues facing rural communities which the CRDC might be called upon to address. They identified gaps in CRDC membership which led to increased outreach to the human services community.

Expected/Future Results
CRDC will continue to build on the relationships established through its involvement with the two projects.

CRDC has involved human service agencies and organizations to a limited extent and will strive to improve those ties. In so doing, CRDC will have better understanding of the issues and how the Council may contribute to solutions.