I am at this moment writing up a report on these forums for my board and the local government officials and the press. The audience needs to be larger. These are inspiring people with important stories to tell.
-- EDC Director - Southeast Texas
I appreciated the opportunity to be at the meeting in Bastrop. These meetings truly expose the lack of resources and tools rural crusaders in Texas have to work with.
-- EDC Director - North Texas
Your event has so inspired me, personally, that I wish there was something similar in East Texas. We have begun kicking around the idea of starting an “ East Texas Leadership Academy” which would be similar in format to the TRIF.
-- Council of Governments official – East Texas
“Not only were (the speakers) inspiring, they were very practical and provided practice-oriented ideas about process and solutions. Very helpful.”
-- State agency director - Austin
I’ve been in economic development since 1986 … attended many, many conferences. This was by FAR the very best!!”
-- LCRA staff - Austin
I really didn't know anything about community foundations, but I am sold on them after hearing the presentation. My goal is to present this information to "the right people" who can make it happen for our communities in (my) County.
-- County Judge – East Texas
We will enthusiastically renew our registration. TRIF is truly bringing rural personnel, resources and ideas together.
-- State agency official – Austin
Thank you for all you have done to help our rural communities. It has been a real pleasure to be a supporter and a partner with TRIF … Keep up the good work!
-- Texas Leadership Institute official - Austin
I'm constantly sharing information and resources from the forums …. I've also appreciated the networking available through the forums. Please keep me informed of future schedules.
-- EDC Director – North Texas
There are two specific things that have standout significance to me that I make a priority for my work here. First is our need to create a community development corporation as the vehicle to help address some of our pressing issues. The second is a tool that I use constantly to help me keep my focus: 20 Clues to Rural Community Survival from the Heartland Center. We will, within the next six months, I think, form our community development corporation. I keep a copy of the 20 Clues in a visible location on my desk. I review it frequently. I use its content to question my assumptions about issues here, and I use it as a tool in discussions with local leaders as they chart the future of our community.
-- EDC Director – Hill Country
