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
