February 1, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Wealth & Poverty | Rising Tides and Leaky Boats: Economic Development Strategies That Work for Those That Need Help Most , Feb. 6

The Wealth & Poverty theme at Ohio University presents John Molinaro of Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth discussing “Rising Tides and Leaky Boats: Economic Development Strategies That Work for Those That Need Help Most” on Monday, Feb. 6, from 3-4 p.m. at Alden 319.

This event is part of Wealth & Poverty Week: Rural America.

Abstract

John Molinaro

Research by the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group established that, to ensure economic benefits for low-income families, economic development programs must be intentionally designed to provide those benefits. Molinaro will discuss this Aspen research and highlight two promising approaches used nationally to increase effectiveness of economic development programs for low-income families – the Rural Family Economic Success (RuFES) model and the WealthWorks model. Molinaro also will discuss how Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth’s current strategies and long-term plans for improving the economy of Appalachian Ohio are designed to benefit the region’s low-income families. He will highlight other programs and services that are required, in conjunction with economic development, for low-income families to be likely to develop a sustainable livelihood.

Speaker Bio

Molinaro joined the Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth in July 2012 as its first president and CEO. He brings more than 30 years of experience working to grow the economies of rural and small-market urban areas. He previously spent six years as co-director of the Aspen Institute’s Community Strategies Group, helping communities across the nation enhance their economies, pairing innovative and traditional economic development and philanthropic approaches. Before joining Aspen, Molinaro served at West Central Initiative, a community foundation/community development corporation in Minnesota. In his 20 years there, he led highly successful efforts in business retention and expansion, workforce development, assistance to manufacturers, and regional planning. During his tenure, the region more than doubled manufacturing employment. Molinaro is certified in economic development and housing development finance by the National Development Council, holds a master’s in community and regional planning, and has pursued advanced studies in theology, leadership, and policy.