Speech

Moving the Needle in Smaller Towns

Abstract: Demographic and geographic differences contribute to different labor market outcomes in smaller towns versus urban areas. Although the solutions will vary from place to place, research suggests four core themes if policymakers want to move the needle in smaller communities: Education: Providing students with the information and preparation they need to choose, and succeed along, the postsecondary path that’s best for them. This preparation begins in early childhood. Connection to jobs: Facilitating workers’ access to good jobs. Community colleges can play a critical role in connecting students and employers. De-isolation: Addressing the informational and institutional gaps that arise from geographic remoteness and the loss of “anchor institutions,” such as rural hospitals. Participation: Helping people overcome obstacles to labor force participation such as disability and addiction. Making progress also requires having a “good story,” integrated regional leadership, a dedicated funding source and the capacity to absorb that funding, and patience and persistence.

Bibliographic Information

Provider: Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Part of Series: Speech

Publication Date: 2019-10-02