The Community Assessment conducted through Focus Groups identified Community & Economic Development as an important issue for Butler County. The local Extension Agents presented the information to each programs council and to the Butler County Extension Council. The County Extension Council identified rural development clubs as a way the extension service could address community and economic development. The five Rural Development Clubs functioning here are a great example of a program that works to address rural issues.  Rural Development was started by the extension service in the 1950’s.  It has been leader led and successful ever since.   The Rural Development Program in Butler County has beef functioning for 62 consecutive years.   Clubs have monthly meetings. Average attendance at these meetings is 20-25. Each of the 5 rural development clubs has a community building that they maintain. These buildings are used for a wide variety of activities each year.   Educational programs are presented at each monthly meeting and the extension agents are often asked to be the presenter. The topics of these programs are determined by the membership, and club members secure presenters. Each club has elected leadership and functioning committees.  At the 2019 Annual Meeting cub presidents reported raising over $20,000 to support themselves and community organizations.  This year the clubs have improved their community centers, held road-side clean up projects, supported project prom, sent children to 4-H camp, financially supported local fire departments, support cancer research and families dealing with cancer, maintained cemeteries, and many other beneficial activities.  Rural Development Club Leaders are some of the most active in our community.  This program is currently developing its third generation of community leaders.  Rural Development leaders hold many positions in county organization that contribute to the quality of life here.