A monthly update regarding the important work of RCRC’s affiliate entities, providing innovative services for the benefit of rural communities.
GSFA Boosts Homebuyer Assistance for National Homeownership Month
GSFA is offering a limited-time enhancement to its Platinum Program to help Californians with upfront homebuying costs. Through June 30, all eligible Platinum borrowers can access Platinum Select, providing 3.5% in repayable assistance plus up to 1.5% as a forgivable gift. Previously, the gift component was limited by occupation and loan requirements, but it is now available to all qualifying borrowers. This expansion reduces out-of-pocket costs and improves affordability at closing.
For more information, visit www.gsfahome.org.
RAI Launches Advisory Council to Help Advance Rural Research and Education Initiatives
The Rural Advancement Institute (RAI) Board of Directors approved the inaugural member slate for the RAI Advisory Council in April 2026, and the Council convened its first meeting on May 27.
The Advisory Council was established to help advance meaningful rural policy discussions and initiatives in California through research, education, and cross-sector collaboration. As a strategic and consultative body, the Council brings together leaders from a broad range of industries and organizations to help inform RAI’s educational and research priorities, identify emerging rural issues and opportunities, and strengthen partnerships supporting rural California communities.
“Rural communities face unique opportunities and challenges, and one-size-fits-all approaches often do not reflect the realities on the ground,” said RAI Chair and Lassen County Supervisor Aaron Albaugh. “The Advisory Council brings together a strong group of leaders and partners who can help provide valuable perspective and help inform RAI’s educational and research efforts to better educate policymakers and support rural California communities.”
The inaugural Advisory Council member slate includes:
- Mike Rizzo, Executive Vice President/Chief Banking Officer, Five Star Bank
- George Gough, Director, State and Local Government Affairs, Bayer Crop Science
- Michelle Nystrom, Community Relations Manager, Sierra Pacific Industries, and Mark Luster, Community Relations Manager, Sierra Pacific Industries
- Keri Thomas, Vice President, External Affairs, Sutter Health, and Kelly Brenk, Senior Director, Community Health, Sutter Health
- Jay Day, Executive Director of Government & External Affairs, Verizon
- Cyndi Hillery, Executive Director, Public Affairs, BNSF Railway Company
- Jenny Johnson, Vice President of Government Relations, Calbright College
- Angela Avery, Executive Officer, Sierra Nevada Conservancy
To learn more about RAI or explore opportunities to collaborate, visit ruraladvance.org.