Solar Project Provides Big Opportunities for a Rural Utah Farmer, Businessman, and Community Leader
Northern Utah’s Laketown is a rural community with a population of just 299 on the South end of Bear Lake. The area offers beautiful lake views, summer recreation, and miles of agriculture. Brandon Willis, owner of Rancher’s Insurance, provides agriculture insurance to farmers and ranchers – but that’s not all. Brandon helps his community as a farmer, council member, family man, teacher, and entrepreneur.
Cooperative Partnership Increases Equitable Access to Healthy Foods in Western Pennsylvania
Former high school athlete Tyrone (Ty) Patillo of Aliquippa, PA, has community service in his blood. His father was the first minority firefighter in the community. Ty continues the family tradition of giving back. His dedication to helping his hometown led him to look for solutions to make healthy food options more accessible in the area.
Transforming Lives with Quality Healthcare Services in Rural Alabama
Medical West Hospital Authority, an affiliate of University of Alabama at Birmingham UAB Health System, sought financing for a replacement and relocation of their existing hospital from its current Bessemer, Alabama location to rural McCalla, Alabama, in West Jefferson County, at Exit 1 off Interstate 459.
Teaming Up to Keep Water Losses Down in an Aging Southwest Virginia System
When Jeff Kilgore started work at the Woodway Water Authority (WWA), he found himself at the helm of a proverbial sinking ship with a small crew working feverishly to plug the leaks. The new executive director knew he had to drastically improve accountability to keep the operation sustainable and profitable.
Energy Grant Helps Keep Dinner Plates Fresh and Full Year-Round

Rural Minnesota Town Breaks Ground on Long-Awaited Wastewater Treatment Facility
The City of Mazeppa recently celebrated a significant milestone with the groundbreaking of a new wastewater treatment facility, moving one step forward in ensuring a sustainable future for its residents. With over $12 million in funding from USDA Rural Development, Mazeppa will replace its outdated and costly plant, which has served the community since the 1950s.
From Cheesemaking to Distilling Spirits: USDA Loan Helps Minnesota Creamery Venture Into New Industry
Nestled in the countryside of Brooten, Minnesota, Redhead Creamery stands as a beacon of innovation and community spirit. What was once a traditional dairy farm has expanded into a family-operated business widely recognized as a vibrant hub for artisan cheese and distilled spirits. Redhead Creamery's journey is one of vision, hard work, and fearlessly venturing into new territory.