In this white paper, we explore the recent creation of the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC), the context in which it must operate, and the lessons it can learn from prior efforts. We then highlight the critical role of defining and identifying distressed communities for the proper functioning of the commission, using Georgia as a critical case study. Finally, we present a series of recommendations for the SCRC, each targeted at maximizing the commission’s impact on community and economic development throughout the region.