There's so much work to be done in revitalizing Appalachia's economy, so many great organizations and communities in need of folks who can get things done, and so many people with energy and ideas for a new Appalachia. But how do we connect all these pieces? The Highlander Center along with Rural Support Partners recently unveiled one of its solutions: the Appalachian Transition Fellowship Program. For one year, fifteen leaders will be paid (yes, paid!) both to work with Appalachian community organizations and undertake their own projects throughout Central Appalachia.
The Fellowship program is seeking both host communities and Fellows. Because the Fellowship seeks to foster cross-sector collaboration, host communities must have at least two places – in the non-profit, government, education, business or philanthropy sectors – with which the Fellow can work. If you're interested in being a host community, apply here by November 27.
Fellows must be committed to the Central Appalachian region, able to commit to a 12-month placement and have their own independent project idea. While there's no age requirement, the Fellowship is for "emerging leaders" who are "at the beginning of their career or at a transitory time and want to change sectors or area of work," according to the Fellowship FAQ. In addition, the Fellowship provides skills development in the form of individual leadership, organizational and community development, and regional and systemic analysis. If you are interested in being an Appalachian Transition Fellow, apply here by February 10.
The website has informational webinars and powerpoints, but is also hosting info sessions throughout Appalachia in November. The schedule is:
Berea, KY- Nov 13th
5-7 pm Berea College Appalachian Center
Harlan, KY- Nov 14th
4-6 pm Harlan Center
Charleston, WV – Nov 19th
1-3 pm South Charleston Public Library
Lewisburg, WV- Nov 19th
6-8 pm Greenbrier Valley EDC
Abingdon, VA -Nov 20th
1-3 pm Senior Center
Boone, NC- Nov 20th
6:30-8:30 pm Appalachian State Student Center
Bluefield, WV- Nov 21st
2-4 pm Craft Memorial
Beckley, WV- Nov 21st
6-8 pm Tamarack
Clarksburg, WV- Nov 22nd
1-3 pm Public Library
Athens, OH- Nov 22nd
6-8 pm Rural Action Kuhre Center
shared 's post.
"A just transition requires reinvesting in regions that have historically relied on fossil fuel extraction as their economic engine. These communities fueled the growth of our nation and paid a heavy toll with the lives of their workers and the health of their communities. Creating a just transition means building a new economy that is diverse, sustainable and provides opportunities for all."
The folks at have made this awesome video about Pine Mountain and their efforts to preserve it. Take a few minutes to watch it today - you won't regret it.
KNLT has completed production of our short film The Wildlands of Pine Mountain. The film was shown at film festivals in Louisville and Morehead over the last few months. We are pleased to now share it with you. Produced by: Kertis Creative Script by: KNLT Narration by: Joan Shelley Music by: Warren Byrom & Joan Shelley We want to thank the following organizations for their financial support of this project: Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, Snowy Owl Foundation, Forecastle Foundation, Land Trust Alliance, Patagonia and Wolverine Worldwide.
Check it out!
Attention YALL members who are14-30 in SWVA, WV, WNC, ETN, and EKY: we want YOU to be a part of the STAY Summer Institute planning process! 3 short calls this week to join, and I'm happy to schedule one with you one-on-one if you can't make it! ,