RARE participants have a variety of backgrounds and bring to their communities a wide-range of experiences. Prior to placement, participants attend an orientation and training that provides them with basic skills needed for a successful placement. In addition, participants attend trainings and meetings throughout the year to increase their skills and to share their experiences. The RARE staff provides technical assistance and on-going supervision to participants, including regular site visits. In addition, participants have access to other faculty who work with the RARE Program at the University of Oregon and provide technical advice and project support to participants as needed.
All communities submit a preliminary work program as part of their application process.
RARE staff also review and help refine participants work programs. Participants in the RARE Program are responsible for finding housing. As much as possible, the community sponsor should assist by providing local housing leads and contacts. Availability and affordability of housing is often a key factor in participants preference for a RARE placement.