In this book, readers journey through rural small towns to discover practical tools for driving meaningful change in housing. The book delves into the roots of present-day challenges of rural places, tracing their origins to shifts in economic and demographic landscapes. Chapters explore the pivotal role of housing for individuals and communities, shedding light on how small town leaders often act only when prompted by crisis or opportunity. The authors furnish a blueprint outlining essential components for crafting and executing a housing strategy tailored to the unique needs of rural communities. The book culminates in a compelling call to action, coupled with a concise guide to best practices and common pitfalls in community housing efforts. It is ideal for community leaders and practitioners, and students in urban and regional planning as well as community development.
This book provides practical tools for driving meaningful change in housing. It explores the roots of present-day challenges for rural places and outlines essential components for crafting and executing a housing strategy tailored to the unique needs of rural communities.
1. Setting the Stage: Housing Challenges and Community Solutions
2.
Unraveling the Past to Improve Housing for the Future
3. Why Rural and Small
Towns Entrust Housing to the Private Market
4. Problems Waiting to Be Seen:
SmallTown Housing Realities
5. The Eureka Moment: Our Community Has a
Housing Problem
6. The Pivot: A Blueprint for Change
7. Building a Housing
Team
8. Gaining Political Will and Community BuyIn
9. Getting to Know Your
Community
10. Planning for Community Housing
11. Fostering Partnerships and
Networks
12. Be the Spark in Your Community
Kim Skobba is a Professor in the Housing Management and Policy program at the University of Georgia. Her research examines the relationship between housing and neighborhood conditions and the decision-making of community leaders in rural small towns, specifically examining how and why leaders address local housing needs.
Monica H. Callahan, Planningand Development Director for Madison, Georgia, is a nationally recognized expert in small-town planning, housing, and preservation. With 30 years of experience, she has led multimillion-dollar revitalization efforts, authored publications, and spoken at major conferences, shaping policy and infrastructure across the Southeast and beyond.
Jermaine M. Durham is an Associate Professor of Housing and Community Development at the University of Georgia and Director of the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing. In his multifaceted role, Durham seamlessly blends academic expertise with practical outreach, championing asset-based community development and spearheading locally driven housing initiatives.
