Initiatives and Cohorts
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NACo partners with thought leaders, industry partners and philanthropic organizations to identify and elevate best practices in key areas of county responsibility. NACo programming enhances public understanding of county government and supports the learning and development of America’s county leaders.
Program activities may include:
- Original research on and for counties
- Topical resource hubs that elevate best and innovative county practices
- In-person peer exchange events in exemplar counties
- National networks of county leaders who share similar roles or interests
- Short-term technical assistance that helps participating counties achieve local goals
“If somebody has the opportunity to attend one of these NACo peer exchanges, they really should jump on those opportunities. To not only learn what others are doing, but you get to share what you are doing in helping other communities at the same time. You’ll be surprised at what you can bring back to effectuate major changes in your community.”
--Brad Carlyon, County Attorney, Navajo County, Ariz.
Current and Forecasted Engagement Opportunities
In designing events and technical assistance efforts, NACo, through its Research Foundation (NACoRF), often partners with grant making organizations to ensure county leaders can participate at no (or significantly reduced) cost to individuals and their home county. Because spots are limited, NACo invites county leaders to submit a brief application to indicate interest and ability to participate.
Watch this page for current and forecasted opportunities to join a peer learning cohort or network and deepen your engagement with NACo and your counterparts across the country.
Public Health Leadership Initiative
NACo’s Public Health Leadership Initiative will engage county leaders on their role in public health and equip them with the skills needed to become public health champions in their communities.
Rural Energy Academy
NACo’s Rural Energy Academy empowers county leaders with the information and support needed to make energy decisions that work best for their communities.
Program Areas
NACo initiatives and cohorts are time-limited projects, one-time peer learning events and ongoing networks that help county leaders gain valuable insights on what works to improve outcomes in an area of county responsibility. These partnerships tend to operate in two-to-three-year cycles, resulting in ever-changing offerings that are responsive to county priorities. While initiatives may change, NACo programming typically falls under one of the following areas of county responsibility:
- Behavioral Health and Justice
- Economic and Workforce Development
- Environment and Land Use
- Health and Human Services
Below, explore the portfolio pages to learn more about ongoing research and resource hubs, evergreen content from past initiatives and to contact NACo staff to share your ideas and local innovations.
Behavioral Health & Justice
NACo’s behavioral health and justice programs strengthen county leadership and innovation in crisis response and justice system effectiveness. Participating counties are implementing best practices to divert individuals in crisis from justice involvement, improve prevention and care, support youth outcomes and strengthen data sharing across systems.
Economic & Workforce Development
NACo’s economic and workforce development programs advance county innovation in diversifying local economies and strengthening workforce systems. Participating counties are developing tailored solutions to grow local revenue, expand housing supply and connect residents to meaningful work in the public and private sectors.
Environment & Land Use
NACo’s environment and land use programs elevate the county role in stewarding natural resources while balancing environmental protection with local economic and resilience needs. Participating counties are strengthening military partnerships, addressing infrastructure maintenance, advancing waste management best practices, exploring local energy resources and navigating critical siting decisions.
Health & Human Services
NACo’s health and human services programs advance county innovation in promoting health and well-being across the lifespan. With expert and peer support, counties are advancing PN-3 policies, expanding childcare access, investing opioid settlement funds, strengthening public health and exploring artificial intelligence in public assistance programs.
Join a Network
County Tech Xchange
The NACo County Tech Xchange is an online portal designed to connect county CIOs, IT Directors, CISOs, and other county IT leadership. This portal provides valuable resources in a central location that counties can use to improve their overall technology infrastructure.
NACo Workforce Network
Counties offer competitive benefits and enriching careers but face a nationwide workforce shortage of 100,000 jobs. The NACo Workforce Network provides a platform to share resources, best practices, and learning opportunities in human resources and benefits, aiming to attract and retain a talented public service workforce.
County Equity Network
The County Equity Network helps county leaders build vibrant communities. By promoting shared decision making, counties improve outcomes and ensure access to opportunities and essential services for all residents.
Join NACo’s Programs and Services Committee
NACo’s Programs and Services Committee advises the NACo Board of Directors and the NACoRF Board of Directors on the evaluation of current NACo programming and priorities for future directions. To make your voice heard, consider serving on Programs and Services.
Contact NACo’s Chief Program Officer Ashleigh Holand at aholand@naco.org for more information.
Programs and Initiatives Lead
