RARE Reimagined FAQs

Did RARE get defunded?

In April 2025, RARE’s AmeriCorps grant was unexpectedly terminated, along with many other AmeriCorps programs around the nation. Thankfully, this decision was reversed by a federal judge in June, allowing several of our members to finish out their service year. However, by the time this was reinstated, we had already let go our staff and given most service members an early end date.

Are RARE members working with communities during the 2025-26 service year?

Unfortunately, we had to cancel the 2025-26 service year, so there will be no RARE members entering communities this fall. We are taking the fall of 2025 to engage in strategic planning, with the hope of spending the upcoming spring preparing for a relaunch.

Will RARE have a 2026-27 service year?

Yes, we hope to re-launch the RARE Program in time for the 2026-27 service year.

Will the requirements change for becoming a RARE service member or site supervisor?

This has not yet been determined. While we expect the general outline of the program to remain, we are interested in feedback from our community as we evaluate our 31 years of service and plan for the future. We know that needs change, and we want to ensure the program remains responsive to the communities we serve!

What will go into the strategic planning process, and how can I help?

We have already begun gathering initial feedback and thoughts from our community through a 10-15 minute survey  (you can take it here). In the upcoming months, we will be engaging with RARE Alumni, past site supervisors, and statewide partners through in-depth conversations and focus groups to explore issues important to rural communities and how RARE can help. The survey (linked above) includes an option to sign up for these conversations.

I have a testimonial about RARE I’d like to share. How can I do that?

Community testimonials are incredibly valuable! Please email these to thomas@kelleynonprofitconsulting.com.

I have other feedback or questions. Who can I speak with?

Please reach out to thomas@kelleynonprofitconsulting.com.