Pine River R4H: Rural Resilience, Revitalization & Renewal Hackathon
So... what exactly is this?
It's a community problem-solving day — part brainstorming session, part hands-on workshop, part friendly contest.
You'll team up with other locals, think about what could be better in our area, and then use clever new AI tools to actually start building a solution. All in one afternoon.
No experience needed. No special background required. Just bring your ideas and your curiosity.
Do I need to have any computer skills?
Nope. Not one bit.
Here's the secret: there are new AI tools that let you describe what you want in plain English — and they help build it for you. It's like telling a really smart assistant, "I need a simple website that does this" — and watching it appear.
We'll show you how it works when you get here. It's surprisingly simple, and honestly, kinda fun.
What do I need to bring?
Best setup: A laptop + charger. That'll make things easiest.
But if you only have a phone? No problem. You can download a free app called Replit on your phone (iPhone or Android). It lets you build right from your palm. With a data connection, you're good to go.
Either way — laptop or phone — you're welcome at this table.
What will we actually do?
1. Spot a problem — What bugs you? What's missing in thie community? What problems need solving or what could work better around here? Nothing's too big or too small.
2. Brainstorm solutions — Either solo or with a team, dream up a fix. It could be a tool, a service, a way to connect people — anything.
3. Bring it to life (with AI) — Using free AI tools (and our help), you'll start building a real, working version of your idea.
4. Show it off — Each team shares what they made. Winners take home prizes!
What's included?
✅ Free pizza & pop all day
✅ Friendly coaches to help you along
✅ Prizes for winning teams
✅ The chance to actually build something that could help the community!
Who should come?
Anyone who lives, works, or cares about the community they live in
Small business owners and dreamers
Students (high school and up)
Retirees with experience and insight
Anyone who's ever thought, "Somebody ought to do something about..."
Bring a friend, bring a family member, or come solo — you can build together with others or be a one-person band.
Schedule
What's happening
11:00 AM: Welcome + how this all works
11:30 AM: Brainstorm problems together
12:30 PM: Form teams (or go solo) & pick a project
1:00 PM: Pizza lunch + plan your build
2:00 PM: Build time (coaches on hand!)
4:45 PM: Wrap up your work
5:00 PM: Team presentations
5:45 PM: Winners announced & prizes
Questions? Just ask.
We're happy to chat. This is your town, your ideas, your day.