The following are attributes of successful communities, shared by David Beurle of Innovative Leadership Australia. He led community visioning meetings to help citizens in northern Idaho small towns agree on their most important goals.

1. Evidence of strong community pride and inclusive culture (diversity celebrated)

2. Invest in the future—built to last!

3. Participatory approach to community decision making

4. Creatively build new economic opportunities (actively seek out new business ideas)

5. Support local businesses

6. Deliberate transition of power to new leaders (people under 40, women involved)

7. Strong belief in and support for education (good schools are center of community activity)

8. Strong presence of traditional institutions that are integral to community life (churches, schools, service clubs)

9. Willingness to seek help (best ideas) from outside

10. Communities are self-reliant (thriving rural communities believe their destiny is in their own hands)