Many school-age children in the US have access to high-speed broadband and can rely on the world-wide web to complete school assignments. But for students living in America’s most rural communities, internet access can make the difference between earning a passing grade or not. The Foundation for Rural Service (also known as FRS) aims to eliminate the technological barriers between rural American students and the tools they need to be successful in school, work, and play.
Rural America is a great place to grow up—hardworking people, beautiful wide-open landscapes, and plenty to see, do, and learn. American farms are an essential part of our economy, infrastructure, and culture; without people willing to work in this field, America would be dependent on foreign imports for food and textiles.
Children who grow up in rural America learn the value of hard work early, and this work ethic follows them throughout their education. But when living in a rural community means limited access to broadband services, children are put at a disadvantage to their peers. FRS believes that living in rural America shouldn’t mean limited access to the global environment. FRS seeks to bring awareness to rural telecommunication and broadband issues, while educating others on the importance of giving rural youth the same opportunities as their more urban peers.
FRS provides scholarships to outstanding students, internship programs, and annual youth tours to Washington, D.C. to learn about issues surrounding rural telecommunications. FRS advocates for America’s rural youth to ensure that no student is technologically disadvantaged from their peers simply because of where they live.
By partnering with FRS, telecommunications companies are not only taking a stand for rural youth, but they are helping to protect the future of farms and American-produced goods. If your organization has special concern for rural issues, consider finding out more about how you can contribute to FRS.