ruralcore: proof that rural people are intelligent, complex, and knowledgeable.
Whereas early iterations of student-supported rural literary magazines might denote “plain living,” ruralcore reveals the complexities and challenges of mainstream narratives of rural people and places. Rural is anything but plain.
Rural is complex; it’s hardcore, actually. Rural is an entire culture.
Dear readers and followers of ruralcore magazine:
My name is Dr. Layne Ilderton, and I am the creator and editor of ruralcore magazine. This project began during my Ph.D. studies in rural English education. Much of the magazine’s writers and reader audience include rural high school students and teachers from all over the United States. Currently, ruralcore’s audience spans 19 U.S. states and includes folks of all ages.
A few weeks ago, after issues one and two had been printed and distributed, I was humbled (and caught off guard) when I received an unprompted donation from a reader. “You’re changing lives, can you keep this going?” is all the message said. I felt nervous as it can be tough to believe this project is supported by others than just me.
While the first two issues were funded by Arizona State University grants, the third (or any subsequent) issues are in need of further funding for printing, illustration, and shipping costs. In order to keep ruralcore going, I am humbly asking for donations from our readers and anyone else who agrees with ruralcore’s vision. Each copy of the magazine costs about $5-7 to print and another $5 to ship. The first two issues required some of the budget be allocated toward consultation for how to design the magazine - a cost that is no longer needed, and will be happily replaced with shipping more magazines to the growing reader audience.
ruralcore’s upcoming issue 3, Dog Days of summer, will feature more student photography, artwork, and original writing. I am grateful their beautiful work has found a home and would love the opportunity to keep printing and distributing their work which advocates for their communities and rural culture at large.
Transparency is a priority especially when asking for donations. The cost breakdown of both issues one and two is included and will always be published on the magazine’s website.
I thank you all in advance, especially those who read and support ruralcore in any way, shape, or form. Even by reading this small publication, you have contributed to empowering a student’s rural identity.
Thank you very much - any and all questions are gladly welcome at editor@ruralcoremag.com.
Best, Dr. Layne Ilderton
Note: donations are accepted directly to Dr. Ilderton via PayPal or Venmo (@laynekirchoff for both). Using these apps is to avoid charity fundraising websites like GoFundMe which keep a certain percent of donations. As this publication is small and self-published, the funds are maintained by me personally, but cost breakdowns will always be shared.