Small Town and Rural Revitalization

I am a freelance journalist doing some research on national and statewide programs that help small communities rebuild after a major loss to their economy. In South Carolina, for instance, the S.C. Mayors' Institute chooses five communities each year to receive landscape architectural and land planning services for free. I was wondering if there are any other programs in the country like this? If you have any advice - even more Web sites for me to visit - please don't hesitate to respond. Much appreciated!