Community-driven Economic Solutions in Appalachia

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Community-driven Economic Solutions in Appalachia

Tuesday, July 28 at 2 p.m. EST

The narrative of economic transition in Appalachia is a story about far more than the decline of coal. From clean energy to small business and hiking trails, and from farmland to music venues and local crafts, the region is burgeoning with new activity. A diverse and sustainable economy is emerging that supports new ways to promote and preserve the nature, culture and history of the region.

What is driving this continued development, and what will it take to keep it sustained? In many cases, the key to this success is having local residents empowered to take on leadership roles in their communities. Join us to hear about three featured economic development projects that are using this strategy to encourage prosperity and improve quality of life.

The Turn This Town Around project, which has helped inspire community leadership and engagement around economic revitalization in four small West Virginia towns, will be discussed by staff from the West Virginia Community Development Hub. Nick Proctor, a member of the collaborative Clinch River Valley Initiative will take a look at efforts to build creative economies in southwest Virginia. From Appalachian Voices, Adam Wells will go over how he is promoting community involvement in a brownfield redevelopment project in Virginia. You will leave this webinar with a better understanding of how the collective talents and ambitions of residents can be pooled to shape a shared vision of the community’s future.

Panelist Speakers:

• Kent Spellman is executive director of the West Virginia Community Development Hub
• Amanda Yager is director of community strategies with the West Virginia Community Development Hub
• Nick Proctor is community development and outdoor recreation specialist with Friends of Southwest Virginia
• Adam Wells is economic diversification campaign coordinator with Appalachian Voices

Protecting the Central and Southern Appalachian Mountain Region