Workforce Development Community of Practice- Program Overview

NRPA’s Community of Practice program is a funded opportunity for rural (population less than 50,000) agencies that currently provide workforce development programming through their out-of-school time (OST) services to youth (ages 14-21). The CoP will allow for agencies to connect and learn from peers, problem-solve challenges, and receive assistance from cohort peers and industry experts. From August 2024 to July 2025, the CoP will guide a small cohort through community engagement and workforce development expansion journeys, while centering equity within strategies and approaches to ensure programming benefits a diverse network of rural youths

What to Expect

• 1 to 1 ½ hour-long sessions hosted over the course for 12 months
• 1:1 Technical Assistance sessions
• Additional asynchronous trainings, professional development, peer-to-peer support and networking opportunities
• Up to $20,000 stipend to be used towards the agency's workforce development programming
• Opportunities for national visibility through NRPA and partner publications

Key Topics Covered

• Programming planning 
• Securing funding 
• Recruitment of youth for programs 
• Inclusion of community voice 
•  Available workforce pathways for youth
•  Partnership building
•  Data collection/Program evaluation

And more! Please note that agencies will have an opportunity to contribute potential topic ideas as part of their applications.

Please reach out to bkpaustin@nrpa.org with any questions.