Community Pre-applications are due by April 15, 2008.

RARE Program community placements for year 2008-2009 are contingent on availability of program funding.

"RARE Community" refers to the organization that sponsors a RARE participant. Eligible organizations include public agencies (including city, county and regional governments); special districts (such as soil and water conservation districts, park and transportation districts); and not-for-profit organizations. Types of organizations include watershed councils, housing authorities, and economic development districts.

RARE communities are organizations that have identified specific needs in underserved rural areas that can be addressed through the service of a RARE participant. No specific definition for rural fits all RARE projects; what is most critical is that the project would not be done without the assistance of a RARE participant and that it serve an organization with limited capacity.

RARE communities will identify a specific person within the organization to serve as supervisor and mentor of the member. Communities must also provide a clear project description and work with the member and RARE staff to develop a work plan to address the project.