Working for a more just and sustainable Appalachia.
The Central Appalachian Network (CAN)’s mission is to develop and deploy economic strategies that build wealth in local communities, conserve natural and cultural resources, and empower marginalized communities. We work in collaboration across sectors, partnering with other non-profits, community groups, funders, educational institutions, local government, and private business. CAN actively pursues economic transition in Central Appalachian communities through a variety of economic sectors and market-based strategies, and currently focuses on:
How We Work
CAN is a network of networks, anchored by a Steering Committee of 7 non-profit organizations. CAN’s sector-focused networks coordinate regional analysis and strategies in areas like Food & Ag, Clean Energy, and Creative Placemaking. Our network of practitioner partners includes over 50 different organizations working on community economic development, including non-profits, local government agencies, lenders, community groups, social enterprises, and academic institutions. CAN’s roles include supporting peer-to-peer learning, collaborative strategies, organizational capacity-building, cross-sector partnership, demonstration projects, in-person convening, and field-building research & publications.
Events & Happenings
There is a lot happening across our region every day! To help share, promote, and keep track of all the activities CAN partners are involved in, use this shared calendar to share information about your upcoming events and learn about other happenings.
Stories & Resources
A Seat at the Table: Embracing Diversity
A Seat at the Table is a series of community dinners that bring people together to share meals and lives. Previous dinners have centered on topics such as economic development, LGBTQ history and rights, and cultural diversity. This series of four dinners will focus on communities that have often been marginalized in Perry County, and will include oral histories and heritage cooking classes. We held our first event on May 1st, with a tamale making class, and 2nd, with a community dinner.
Read MoreIn Creative Placemaking, Guest Post
2018 Regional Peer-to-Peer Convening Highlights
In November of 2018 the Central Appalachian Network held its first Regional Peer-to-Peer Convening at Tamarack in Beckley, West Virginia. Approximately 115 people attended the event, including economic development practitioners, community change makers, funders, and sector experts working in the Central Appalachian region. Discussions were focused on individual sectors and topics, and on cross-cutting issues affecting the equitable transition of the Central Appalachian region. The three concurrent session tracks focused on the three topics of CAN’s working groups: Food and Agriculture Systems, Clean Energy, and Creative Placemaking.
Read MoreIn Clean Energy, Creative Placemaking, Food systems, StoriesMore posts by topic:
Clean Energy Creative Placemaking Food systems Guest Post Healthy Food Access Policy Publication Public Health Research Stories Value ChainsGet social on
Sadly, we’re losing some great neighbors. Check out their sale!Hey everyone, I just wanted to let you all know that we're having a sale to help get prepared for the big move coming up.
❓❓Did you know that Kentucky Double Dollars is 41 farmers markets across the state?
If you are a SNAP, WIC, or Senior Voucher participant you can get your dollars spent at a participating market doubled when purchasing Kentucky grown 🍓fruits, 🥕vegetables, 🥩meats, 🍳eggs, and🧀 dairy.
To find a location near you, and learn more about the program, visit 👉https://bit.ly/2WmdCuJ
The Rural Action Incubator Farm at the Chesterhill Produce Auction is underway with the first plants going in the ground! Local farmers taught participants about the importance of drip irrigation. If you're interested in being part of this project, plots are available by contacting jessicad@ruralaction.org.
Are you interested in an exciting career in sustainable agriculture?
We are looking for Crew Members to work on our Wayne and Mingo County crews for Refresh Appalachia! Check out the link below for more details, and how to apply.
Please send your resumes to: refreshappalachia@gmail.com.
coalfield-development.org/job-post-refresh-appalachia-crew-member/
Job Post: Refresh Appalachia Crew Member | Coalfield Development
coalfield-development.org
JOB POSTING for position at COALFIELD DEVELOPMENT, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.Hunter Owens