Rainah Folk

Rainah Folk is a Community and Economic Development Educator for University of Illinois Extension serving Cook County, where she partners with organizations, local governments, and communities to advance equitable development and strengthen community capacity. 

Rainah is committed to community-driven approaches that prioritize inclusive decision-making and long-term sustainability. She brings experience in applied research, youth development, and cross-sector collaboration, drawing from her background as a former AmeriCorps member and experience as a community and economic development graduate fellow.

Before transitioning into her current role, Rainah supported Cook County initiatives as an Illinois State University Stevenson Center Applied Community and Economic Development Fellow with University of Illinois Extension. In this capacity, she collaborated with the local unit to assess the needs of county residents and partner organizations contributing to program development, evaluation efforts, and community engagement initiatives.

Rainah holds a bachelor’s degree in health science & kinesiology and sociology from Bradley University, and a master’s degree in sociology with a concentration in applied community and economic development from Illinois State University. Rainah’s passion for community development is continually nurtured through her civic engagement and her commitment to supporting communities as they grow and thrive.