MORRILTON – The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute is inviting applications to its Uncommon Communities program cohort 2022. The deadline has been extended to March 31st. “Given the hardships facing southwest Arkansas communities in the aftermath of February’s winter storms, we want to respect everyone’s time and priorities,” the Institute said in a statement. Uncommon Communities is a year-long community and economic development program that builds diverse local teams of citizens and “empowers them with the knowledge and skills to become leaders in their communities and create sustainable platforms for civic engagement.”

The 2022 Uncommon Communities cohort is set to begin in August 2021. Groups of 5-7 citizens from communities in the southwestern region of Arkansas are invited to apply. Applications must be received by March 31st, 2021. Eligible counties include:, Nevada, Hempstead, Little River, Howard, Lafayette, Miller, Ouachita, Sevier, Union, Calhoun, Columbia, and Dallas.

The Institute says as individuals, participants learn how to build and sustain support for community-wide initiatives, connect with a broad network of people, gain access to technical expertise, and practice turning a problem into an opportunity for community growth and revitalization. As a community, teams work together to identify their unique strengths and broad-based challenges, generate inclusive solutions, prioritize strategies, and develop projects. As a cohort, communities establish a culture of mutual respect and understanding that fosters regional collaboration. While providing participants with the skills and structure necessary to begin strengthening their communities, the Uncommon Communities program is designed to prepare and connect community teams with next-level development programs throughout the state.

Groups should work together with one of the following entities to submit a single application to the Institute: city council, mayor’s office, county judge’s office, community-based nonprofit organization, or the local chamber of commerce. Applicants with diverse representation from all parts of the community will receive selection preference.

Application Requirements:

Complete the application form, and include the following attachments:

Letter of commitment from each group member

Letter of support from the submitting organization

Letter of support from at least one other local nonprofit or community organization

With assistance from the Institute, accepted applicants will be required to raise a $600/person participation fee (due by December 15, 2021), a total of $240 in registration fees to be paid at the time of event registration throughout the course of the year, and minimal travel costs.

View  FAQs sheet and email any additional questions to programs@uawri.org.