IRP is most known for coordinating the Idaho Community Review program. The 40+ community reviews completed since 2000 have helped rural leaders and residents establish priorities, access grant funding and achieve economic development goals. The program is open to communities with populations under 10,000 people.
The process leaves community residents and leaders better prepared to manage change on their own terms and respond to opportunities and challenges. More specifically, the community review process can help your community:
- reach agreement about community priorities and economic development opportunities.
- support future grant applications with objective, professional assessment of local conditions and opportunities along with the in-kind value of the community review process
- identify sources of funding, technical assistance, and best practices
- improve community decision-making and leadership strategies
- increase the number of residents involved in community organizations and projects
- strengthen relationships with agencies that provide funding and assistance
The community review process includes three phases:
- Phase 1: Listen
- Phase 2: Learn
- Phase 3: Launch
All communities accepted into the program complete Phase 1. Communities that demonstrate the interest and readiness have the option of also completing Phases 2 and 3.
While IRP coordinates the overall review process, each community is expected to invest in their review by assigning people, time, energy, and resources to the process and related follow-up activities. Success depends on faithful participation from a true cross-section of your community. The community also has some responsibility to raise funds to support each phase of the community review. This fundraising effort is typically done in collaboration with IRP staff.
Each of the three phases of the community review process provide numerous opportunities for community residents and leaders to share their experiences, knowledge, opinions, and ideas with visiting community and economic development professionals. These professionals comprise what we call the “Visiting Team.” Your community will identify people to serve on its “Home Team.”
Phone and email communication with IRP staff is strongly encouraged prior to submitting an application. These pre-application conversations address expectations, funding, logistics, community participation, and scheduling. We also recommend collaborating with your local or regional economic development organization to complete the application.
The cover letter, program guide and application form below provide detailed information about the program and the application process. Inquiries about the program can be sent to irpcommunityreview@irp.idaho.gov. The IRP office can also be contacted at 208-332-1731.
READ AN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF WHAT IDAHO'S COMMUNITIES HAVE ACCOMPLISHED SINCE THEIR REVIEW!