Young people want to live and thrive in communities of the future.

Let’s create them together.

The idea that we should strive for "communities of the future" came from the Kansas Power Up & Go Report commissioned by the Kansas Office of Rural Prosperity in 2021. It's a notion full of belief in the power and possibility of creating places that support young people and help everyone thrive.

Read the report, join the movement, share your story with us.

PowerUps are 21-39 year olds who are Rural by Choice

The PowerUp Movement is about being part of a rural community and the opportunity to make a better life where you are. KSF has been convening, supporting, and promoting these Kansans, ages 21-39 who are “rural by choice” for over a decade.

As the PowerUp Movement gains strength and vitality - Kansas does too!

How can we help you live your best life in rural?

  • Young, female entrepreneur in plant business

    Empower.

    Living in rural means living in a place where your voice and your action can make a difference. The PowerUp Movement supports young people in finding a way to discover their place in the rural community they call home.

  • Group of young people at local brewery in Kansas

    Connect.

    At the heart of being a PowerUp is the desire to know your choice to be rural was a good one. Even when life feels lonely, the PowerUp Movement connects young adults with their peers across the state of Kansas. Additionally, it helps connect them to opportunities to use their voices for creating a community of the future.

  • Group of females at conference, young and old.

    Engage.

    The role of PowerUp is one of a person who is helping transition a community to the future. There is value in engaging community members across generations and learning from those who came before.

  • Young people in professional setting.

    Sustain.

    The work of creating communities of the future requires the intentional building of an inclusive network. This network can give young people in rural places a collective voice on issues that matter locally and across the state of Kansas.

  • Young people covered in mud with big smiles.

    Enjoy.

    Being a PowerUp isn't just about the work of building communities of the future. Make time for fun and be part of creating a quality of life that you desire. Enjoy the journey!