What if more of our children and grandchildren had the opportunity to build their futures close to the places they call home? As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, it's a chance to reflect on how investing in rural communities today can help make that future possible.

Living with low vision means Frankie can no longer drive himself where he needs to go. His story shows how a volunteer driver provides more than a ride—offering the support, flexibility, and connection that help make each trip possible.

Application for Harvest to Market grants up to $25,000 are now open through August for small farm and food business funding for local food entrepreneurs from rural Kansas and western Missouri. Submission deadline is by noon on August 31, 2026.

Running a child care program means balancing care for children with the daily demands of running a business. A new support program from the New Growth Women’s Business Center aims to help rural Missouri child care programs save time, strengthen operations, and connect with practical tools and resources.

Richard discovered that helping others through volunteer driving didn’t only help rural riders get where they needed to go. It also helped him find connection and healing.

Does the mileage reimbursement actual cover the cost of driving? See how the numbers add up, but also how the experience adds up to so much more.

Parents, child care providers, and healthcare professionals understand the challenges facing Missouri families better than anyone. Two statewide fellowship opportunities are now open to help those voices grow into leadership and advocacy.

After moving to Nevada, Missouri, and realizing she could no longer continue her hospice nursing career locally, Jill found herself searching for a new direction. Today, through her business, This or That Southern Cooking, she’s serving homemade meals and building community one lunch at a time.

Aetna Better Health of Missouri is helping drive access to care. Their support strengthens the network of volunteer drivers serving west central Missouri.

Helen Crowder drove more than 44,000 miles last year helping neighbors get where they needed to go. Congratulated by the Lieutenant Governor and honored at the Missouri State Capitol for her volunteer service, her story shows how a ride makes big difference.

Employers across west central Missouri have a new opportunity to address one of the biggest workforce challenges: access to affordable, reliable child care.

Looking for meaningful work you can do from home? Start a home-based child care program with support through New Growth Women’s Business Center—and a $2,500 grant opportunity. Apply for free step-by-step support.