Former President Clinton recently remarked that a greater focus needs to be put on philanthropy directed toward rural areas, describing the philanthropic activity in the rural parts of this country has been “woefully inadequate.”

One of the issues he addressed was that there is not enough option for philanthropists when considering charity for rural parts of the country. He wanted new ideas and innovative solutions – such as environmental initiatives that could help encourage job growth in rural states (think investment in solar power). Another key point Clinton stressed was the lack of hope people often experience in rural areas, because “they’re stuck in a rut they can’t get out of.”

Organizations such as Teach for America and FRED (Foundation for Rural Education and Development) have done a tremendous job reaching out and improving education conditions in underprivileged areas in the US. However the facts are still sobering. A report by the National Center for Education Statistics indicates that in 2004, college enrollment rates for both 18- to 24-year olds and 25- to 29-year olds were generally lower in rural areas than in all other locales in 2004.

However, it is nice to hear that the White House has recently announced a nationwide tour of rural communities, participants of which will include Joe Biden, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Commerce Secretary Gary Locke. They will make multiple stops into September of this year to visit rural areas and understand people’s concerns. What will come out of this extended field trip? We’ll be watching.