The National Rural Education Association (NREA) is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with the National Grange, the nation’s oldest agricultural and rural advocacy organization. This collaboration brings together two organizations that have spent more than a century in service to rural America, united by a shared belief that rural communities are strongest when organizations work together to address common challenges and create new opportunities.
Founded in 1867, the National Grange is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization with members in over 1,400 communities across the United States. Through advocacy, service, education, and agricultural awareness, the National Grange has long worked to strengthen rural communities and improve the quality of life for rural families. That mission aligns closely with NREA’s commitment to advancing educational opportunities and supporting the success of rural schools, students, educators, and communities.
“No single organization can solve the challenges facing rural America alone. Education, agriculture, healthcare, economic development, and community leadership are all interconnected, and our success depends on working together instead of apart,” said National Grange President Christine Hamp. “The National Grange is proud to partner with the National Rural Education Association because stronger schools create stronger communities, and stronger communities create greater opportunity for every rural family. This partnership is about building those connections and ensuring rural America has a stronger, more unified voice for the future.”
Through this partnership, NREA and the National Grange are amplifying one another’s work and reach. The organizations will share resources, publications, and expertise to connect rural educators, community leaders, and advocates around issues that matter most to rural America. Together, NREA and National Grange are helping foster greater collaborations across the rural advocacy community, encouraging coordinated efforts that elevate rural voices and create lasting solutions for the communities they serve.
“For too long, the organizations serving rural America have worked in their own lanes, and rural communities have carried the cost of that,” said NREA Executive Director Dr. Melissa Sadorf. “What I value about the National Grange is that they have never lost sight of the people at the center of this work. When National Grange leadership and I talk, it comes down to access and advocacy for rural America, and to the difference we can make when we show up together instead of singly. This partnership is two organizations deciding to do exactly that, and rural students and families are the ones who will feel it.”
NREA is committed to building strategic partnerships that support rural communities and rural children. We hope NREA members and non-members alike will benefit from this partnership and the doors it opens. Thank you to the National Grange for joining us in our mission to advocate for every rural learner, educator, and community.
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The National Rural Education Association (NREA) was originally founded as the Department of Rural Education in 1907. It is the oldest established national organization in the United States. As the trusted voice for rural education, the NREA advocates for every rural learner, educator, and community. The NREA envisions strong rural schools and communities where education is the catalyst for resilience, opportunity and success.
The National Grange is a community-driven, nonpartisan organization that brings people together to strengthen their local communities through service, shared learning, leadership, and connection to the land. Founded in 1867, the Grange includes more than 1,400 local chapters across the country, where members take action on what matters most close to home. From supporting families and schools to organizing events and advocating for local needs, Grange members contribute millions of hours of service each year. The Grange creates opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to make a meaningful difference in their communities. Learn more at www.nationalgrange.org.
