Relationships are essential to strengthening our communities and coming together to get stuff done. Communities, and the people in them, need different kinds of relationships to build resilient rural places. Building relationships between individuals, groups and organizations takes time and intention. As part of the Rural Shrink Smart Initiative, a National Science Foundation-funded research project at Iowa State University, this workshop will introduce a framework, Belonging through Bridging, and will dive into how communities can invest in relationship-building. Participants should expect a process focused on shifting mindsets, engaging effectively, seeking out opportunities and considering the nuances of how we go about getting stuff done.

• Megen O'Toole