WHAT NEXT

The Horizons Leadership team has been working through the summer to finalize our Strategic Plan for the next couple of years. Amazingly, some of the original needs identified in our community through Study Groups last fall & our June Community Visioning meeting, are already on their way to being met!!

1. High Speed Internet - we will find out in October whether the Tum Tum area was awarded a USDA grant - if we aren't awarded this grant, there are other options available
2. Resource Directory - thanks to S.C.A.A.T.(Cop Shop), this is already available online
3. Easier Access to Basic Resouces

• Pilot program on September 26th for M.A.R.S. (Mobile Access to Resource Services)
• Partnering with Stevens County Library, Tri-County Economic Development District, WSU Extension & Rural Resources to promote and help bring about a "Community Knowledge Center" of which a grant has already been applied for
• Work with the Tum Tum Community Center Board to make the Community Center an access point for needed resources

4. Form a Asset Building Coalition in Stevens County with other Horizon Communities

• We have two people attending the statewide Coalition meeting in November

5. Bring in Adult Education through Spokane Community College, Institute for Extended Learning

• Technology skills
• Personal Finances
• G.E.D.

6. Improve Transportation options along the Hwy. 291 corridor

• 2 people attended the NE Washington Regional Transportation Planning Organization meeting in August
  
• We have learned of several resources already available

7. Partner with A.A.R.P. to provide free tax preparation in our area starting in January, 2010

• Already have a Site Coordinator
• Our site has been approved through AARP

As you can see, there is a lot happening!!!