Rural communities rely on steady, capable leadership to face the challenges that come with changing times. In Russell County, that investment in leadership is growing with the creation of the Paving a Trail for Hometown Leaders (PATH) Fund, a new permanently endowed fund at the Russell County Area Community Foundation. The fund is designed to support Russell County Leadership (RCL) and provide a reliable source of funding for years to come.
Russell County Leadership is an intensive program that helps prepare emerging leaders to better serve their communities. Each year, a small class is selected based on their leadership potential and desire to grow. Participants come from a range of backgrounds—business, health, agriculture, education, and more—bringing different perspectives that strengthen both the program and the community.
Through the program, participants gain a better understanding of the issues facing Russell County and rural communities like it. They build connections, develop leadership skills, and leave better prepared to take on roles in local organizations, workplaces, and civic life.
As economic, environmental, and political challenges continue to affect rural areas, programs like RCL play an important role in preparing people to step up and help guide our communities. The PATH Fund helps make sure that work continues by creating long-term, stable support through endowment funding.
Community members can support the PATH Fund with tax-deductible gifts through the Russell County Area Community Foundation. Every gift helps invest in the people who will help shape Russell County’s future. By supporting the PATH Fund, you are helping ensure that Russell County continues to have local leaders ready to serve, adapt, and move the community forward. You can make an easy credit card gift at rcacf.org or send a check to RCACF, PO Box 172, Russell, KS 67665.