Building Belonging in Rural Spaces Through ERGs

LGBTQ+ employees in rural America often faced isolation, limited support, and a lack of visible representation, especially in food and agriculture workplaces. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) helped bridge these gaps by fostering belonging, strengthening leadership, and empowering employees to bring their authentic selves to work.

This Cultivating Community Webinar explored how ERGs made a meaningful difference for LGBTQ+ employees in rural areas. Featuring Curtis Rainey of Ardent Mills’ Spectrum ERG and Kristin Hicks of Scoular’s SPAN ERG, the session highlighted real examples of building connection, driving inclusion, and sustaining engagement across dispersed teams. It offered practical ideas and inspiration for organizations at any stage of developing ERGs.