Preserving and Strengthening Small Towns and Rural Communities

A compilation of the most dynamic and exemplary presentations at the 23rd Annual National Institute on Social Work and Human Services in Rural Areas, this volume offers a much-needed generalist approach to practice in the rural environment. Preserving and Strengthening defines the issues and crises of surprisingly diverse populations and illustrates the myriad solutions and interventions available to the social work practitioner in the rural context. The book defines the specific needs of the small town and rural populations of the United States and Canada from the familial, societal, economic, agency, and empowerment perspectives ; recognizes the diverse range of cultural and ethnic groups, including African Americans, American Indians, and Canadian First Nations People ; addresses the traditional way of life found in rural communities and offers approaches to enhance it ; and assembles the research and experiences of leading practitioners in the rural environment.