ACRN - Katie Long

ACRN - Katie Long, deputy director at North Country Rural Development Coalition, introduces her organization's mission to provide housing rehabilitation and community development services across Warren, Washington, and Essex counties. She explains how the organization helps low and moderate income homeowners through CDBG programs, addresses housing safety issues like mold and lead, and supports downtown revitalization initiatives. Katie shares her personal background, including her recent PhD completion in sociology and her passion for addressing rural inequalities. She discusses the organization's rebranding from Pride of Ticonderoga to better reflect their broader regional impact, and highlights their public art initiatives and emergency repair fund. The presentation concludes with ways the community can support their work through spreading awareness, donations to the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Fund, and attending community events.