Since 2011, the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) has set aside the third Thursday of November to celebrate the "Power of Rural" on National Rural Health Day. National Rural Health Day is an opportunity to bring attention to and honor the incredible efforts of rural healthcare providers, communities, organizations, State Offices of Rural Health (SORH), and other stakeholders dedicated to addressing the unique healthcare needs of rural America.
Last year on National Rural Health Day, the Virginia State Office of Rural Health was featured in a webinar aimed to inform and inspire while explore strategies at both the state and national levels to enhance the well-being of rural Americans. Participants heard directly from the newly established CDC Office of Rural Health about their mission and vision. Plus, inspiring case studies from the field featuring transformative work in Texas and Virginia.
To watch the replay, click here.
In 2015, the Community Star Recognition Program was established in conjunction with NRHD to tell the stories of the people and organizations who make a difference in rural communities. Since then, over 300 inspiring rural stars have been honored nationwide on NRHD. Introducing Virginia's 2023 Community Star: United Way of Southwest Virginia.
With a footprint that covers nearly 20% of the state of Virginia, United Way of Southwest Virginia is the leading regional non-profit organization focused on community impact. Through an initiative-based cradle-to-career approach, United Way of Southwest Virginia is creating sustainable solutions to address the challenges facing tomorrow’s workforce. United Way convenes cross-sector partners to make an impact on the most complex problems in the region. Through collaboration with government, business, nonprofit and individuals, United Way innovates for positive, lasting social change.
For the 2021 and 2022 floods that devastated rural communities, United Way of Southwest Virginia stepped forward to coordinate long term recovery efforts. The organization brought together donors to support the cause, developed a strategic plan, convened stakeholders from the community, and coordinated efforts to repair and rebuild to stretch donor dollars as far as possible.
For more information, please click here.
To watch this video on YouTube, click here.
2021 VA-SORH National Rural Health Day Video:
