Community Accelerator Program
Through coaching, tools, and resources provided to grass roots community groups in distressed counties in Appalachian Kentucky, the Community Accelerator program empowers citizens to create positive change in their communities supporting community and economic development.
The Community Accelerator program is an initiative of What’s Next EKY, in collaboration with Mountain Association, that provides resources and support to increase the capacity of local leaders and groups to realize positive changes that supports community and economic development.
Participating Communities:
The program launched in 2021 supporting Pikeville, Kentucky community members, followed by Grayson, Kentucky in 2022. Jackson and Letcher counties joined in 2023. In 2024-5, we are working with the communities of Vanceburg (Lewis County), Frenchburg (Menifee County), Morehead (Rowan County), and Barbourville (Knox County).
Outcomes:
Though there are significant differences between the communities, they all faces similar challenges. Each community had different goals and outcomes but all have been successful in making progress and having a positive impact on their communities.
Please find an informational white paper on this program and its impact so far here.
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To learn more, contact Betsy Whaley at betsy@mtassociation.org
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