Our story
Our beginning
Rural Pathways, based in Duluth, Minnesota, was founded in 2024 out of a deep commitment to improving life in rural communities. Staci Gilpin and Charity Anderson, Rural Pathways’ founders, bring rich life and professional experience in rural communities.
Staci, who was born and raised in rural Northwest Iowa on a small grain and livestock farm, later lived and worked in Itasca County. Through her role as Director of Special Education for six rural school districts in Northeastern Minnesota, Staci helped over 1,000 students with disabilities and quickly realized that many service providers based in the Twin Cities didn’t fully understand the unique needs of rural areas.
Charity grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. It wasn’t until she moved out of western North Carolina that she realized the vicious cycle of scarcity and lack of opportunity that characterized her upbringing. While Charity’s adult life and work took her to major urban centers–like New York City, Chicago, and Seattle–her formative years in the country shaped her commitment to equity and sustainable development.
Both Staci and Charity left their jobs at universities to strike out on their own with Rural Pathways.
What makes us different
Because we have first-hand experience in rural America, we recognize the unique value of rural living and are here to offer solutions tailored to your community. As a fractional service provider, we go beyond traditional consulting—we become a part of your team. Our core services and qualifications are outlined in our downloadable capability statement.
Rural Pathways is a certified women-owned small business (WOSB) by the U.S. Small Business Administration. We are also proud members of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce and the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.
Our mission is simple…
to help rural economies grow and close the opportunity gap. We believe in the potential of rural areas and want to see them thrive. We know living in rural places is a choice, and we’re here to make that choice easier.
As people who love rural life, we’re deeply loyal to our communities, and we know you are, too. While some may see these areas in decline, rural residents are more likely to stay where they are compared to those in cities or suburbs. We understand you want to improve your communities on your terms. We’re here to support that goal and help make it a reality.
We’re experts for rural communities
We’re not your typical experts. We prefer to be experts for rural communities, not experts on rural communities.
Our deep roots in rural areas mean we understand your challenges and are committed to partnering with you to find the right solutions. We recognize that local residents bring valuable knowledge and experience. True community improvement comes from within, and we’re here to support that journey.
Your path to success
Our approach is built on adaptability, strong relationships, and staying calm under pressure. We avoid lectures, jargon, and complex language, focusing instead on practical support that makes sense. We believe in equipping you to tackle your own challenges because we know that the best solutions are the ones you help create.
Ely, MN
Tailored solutions
We work with organizations to create solutions that address the unique challenges rural communities face around issues like workforce development, childcare, housing, healthcare, and education. Every community is different, so our solutions are customized for you and your organization.
Let’s achieve your goals together
With Rural Pathways’ support, we can save your organization time and valuable resources. Partner with us, and let’s build a brighter future for your community.
