In California’s rural communities, economic viability depends significantly on the local health care infrastructure. The health sector is typically the largest employer in rural California, and the chief source of health care to employees in the $17 billion agricultural, forestry, fishing, and mining industries. A typical rural hospital may employ 15-20 percent of the local workforce and possess a multimillion dollar payroll. Furthermore, health sector employees, among the highest paid in rural areas, tend to spend their money locally, generating additional jobs and revenue.

Sustaining the local health care infrastructure...is critical to both the health and econmic stability of rural residents.
Sustaining the local health care infrastructure in rural communities is critical to both the health and economic stability of rural residents. However, many healthcare providers struggle in the face of financial difficulties, and often do not have the expertise or resources to implement effective fundraising strategies in their communities. Recognizing the distinct need for rural health organizations to develop an effective fundraising program, the California State Rural Health Association (CSRHA) and its partners, John Snow Inc, and Rural Health Design Network will provide seven rural health provider organizations with training and technical assistance on the planning and development of a capital campaign.