As the Wilds Are Working: A Remote Lifestyle Experience (WAW) has wrapped up its pilot program, the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship is now looking for other communities that could host remote workers.
The first WAW pilot program took place in Bellefonte in July 2022, and the next WAW program will be underway in Kane September/October 2022. PA Wilds Center hopes to collaborate with two communities in 2023 and two additional communities in 2024.
By leveraging the power of the Pennsylvania Wilds brand and the amenities of the region’s gateway communities, the WAW attracts remote workers for a four-week stay. This program encourages people to live in, work in and explore PA Wilds communities with the hopes that some may consider relocating to the region long term.
Initial funding for this program was provided by Ben Franklin Technology Partners through the Appalachian Regional Commission.
In addition to leveraging the power of the Pennsylvania Wilds brand to reach and attract new visitors and potential residents, participating communities have an opportunity to showcase modern amenities and charm to encourage people to visit and stay. Participating communities also help support local small businesses as thousands of dollars are spent by the remote workers through a gift card stipend program. In addition, communities have a chance to gain new volunteers to support area activities and events — as the remote workers are encouraged to get involved with local nonprofits and organizations as part of their experience.
Each community in the Pennsylvania Wilds is unique in terms of natural assets, community character, amenities and capacity. If a community can offer suitable accommodations for long-term remote workers, including vacation rentals or bed and breakfast locations with wifi, ample living space and cell phone coverage, and has staff or volunteers able to dedicate time to project management, guided by the Wilds Are Working toolkit then they would be a consideration for the program. Also needed is the community’s ability to organize a group of friendly and knowledgeable volunteers to host workers and help them make the most of their experience.
Communities are invited to submit an interest form and will be contacted by PA Wilds Center staff for further discussion as part of the review process. For more details and to sign up visit www.PAWildsCenter.org/wilds-are-working.
