First, it's the way you're really find out what they need - by being there, being immersed in the life of the village, meeting and talking to the people who actually live there, and finding out what in their lives you could do something to help.
And second, if you live there, you'll do most of your buying there, supporting local businesses. That helps the town, too.
This maybe too advanced but will give you ideas (go through the other case studies) - http://www.vassarlabs.com/smart-cities-section.html#scogp
Online portal facilitating barter system and resources.
Enable small businesses that serve locally and to trade with neighbors.
But you first have to figure out what their challenges are...you can either move there to evaluate or use a trusted party to convey without bias, the pain points.
Education..for youth and adults..is always good..regardless of location..