The Rural Project is launching its first quarter theme "Making a Difference in Rural America"  and invites photos and essays that capture the theme best. Top prize is $1,000 cash each quarter.

Who Makes A Difference In Your Community?

The Rural Project is designed to bring light and attention to a

segment of the population that often gets lost in the bigger city news.

Each photo essay entry will consist of one photo image, along with a short essay describing how this person, group or organization is making a difference in their rural community or beyond. The essay must be at least 10 words in length and not to exceed 100 words. Complete contest rules and submitting procedure can be found at http://RuralRefined.com or on Facebook.

These photo essays will mark just the beginning of The ...