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
Farm on the Ridge: Farm Enterprises takes Grit and Gumption
A necessity for every gourmand, and our last entry, is Farm on the Ridge. Another staple at the Athens Farmer’s Market, you may have seen them on Saturday morning where they sell amazing pork products. In their own words, read how they got their start:
Read MoreIn Food Hub, Food systems, Guest Post
Primaterra Farm: Farm Enterprises takes Grit and Gumption
Running a small business in Southeast Ohio takes hard work, tenacity, and gumption. People start small businesses for a number […]
Read MoreIn Food Hub, Food systems, Guest PostMore posts by topic:
Clean Energy Creative Placemaking Food Hub Food systems Guest Post Healthy Food Access Publication Public Health Research Stories Value ChainsGet social on
Not only is Willie Crase the co-owner of the brand new Wet Willie's Car Wash in Martin, he is also a pastor for a five county area and the operator of a successful construction company.
Well-loved on social media for his creative marketing techniques, the Floyd County native uses goofy video filters to promote the car wash and challenges customers to also make these videos as they go through the wash.
Both Willie and his brother, Craig, who is a co-owner, were born and raised in the area and they strive to support the local community by hosting fundraisers every other week for groups from Floyd Central High School - Kentucky.
Learn more about this new business ➡️ maced.org/entrepreneurial-ecosystem/wet-willies/
So excited to be getting coverage for the second year of the Fresh RX for MOMs program at Community Farmers Market Bowling Green!
This program enables pregnant women who are regularly seeing their doctor or midwife, and are on Medicaid, to receive $20 a week towards local fruits and vegetables at the market.
We hope this program is successful and can spread to more of our markets over time!
There is also this video with a cooking demonstration and an explanation of the program here: www.wbko.com/video?vid=557759302
Farmers Market on Nashville Road launching Fresh RX program
The Fresh RX program is for pregnant moms on Medicaid who are seeing a doctor or Midwife regularly.Thank you for all your support and guidance!
We post on our Instagram photos from our events, crew members, and more! Follow us
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2019-2020 Ohio Stream Restore Corps orientation is in full swing! New members have heard about the history of Shawnee, learned about protected species at United Plant Savers, and were able to see the rich history of Athens at the Dairy Barn Arts Center. They are being shown on tours for the next two days to hear some Appalachian history and to learn about the communities they will be serving. Keep an eye out for the great things that will be happening this upcoming term! If you’re interested in meeting them, come out to Eclipse Company Store for a meet and greet tomorrow (8/22) from 6:30-8:30pm!
Have an awesome service year!