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NHCOG and Leonardo Ghio receive Rural Achievement Award

LITCHFIELD – The Northwest Hills Council of Governments and Leonardo Ghio, project director of rural health and human services for the organization, have been awarded national recognition for prioritizing healthcare and access to human services as fundamental to successful planning and economic development in the region.

The National Association of Regional Councils, a country-wide regional governance advocacy group, awarded the NHCOG and Ghio with its 2026 Rural Achievement Award, which honors organizations and individuals that innovate strategies to address unique challenges that rural communities face. The accolade champions Ghio’s and the NHCOG’s focus on public health, behavioral health, aging services, food security and social service coordination as foundational components for lasting wellness in rural communities.

“Employers cannot thrive when residents struggle to access healthcare, transportation, housing, nutrition, or support services,” said Ghio in a June 9 release.

“By bringing health and human services into the regional planning conversation, we are helping communities build stronger workforces, improve quality of life and create conditions for long-term economic resilience,” he added.

Erich Zimmermann, executive director of the National Association of Regional Councils, said the example extends beyond the Litchfield Hills.

“Their work serves as a national example of how regional organizations can address health and human service needs while advancing economic development and community sustainability.”

Alec Linden
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