Making an Impact in Appalachia | Organizations to Watch
Jan 27, 2021 10:00 AM
There are dynamic social-impact organizations all over the US, and the Appalachian region is no exception. In fact, social-impact work in Appalachia is often deeply rooted in loyalty to the region, with its unique environmental challenges and increasingly diverse population. Many nonprofits keep their focus local, building strong communities and creating sustainable ecosystems.
Appalachia’s diverse roots
There’s no universally agreed-upon definition of Appalachia’s boundaries, but according to the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), the area spans 420 counties across 13 states, totalling around 25 million residents. The region’s history is vibrant and complex, shaped by immigration, cultural fusion, and the contributions of Black, Hispanic, and Native American residents. Modern Appalachia is home to rural communities and urban hubs, including Birmingham, AL, and Pittsburgh, PA. When Appalachia shows up in popular culture, the portrayals frequently fall back on stereotypes presenting Appalachians as poor, uneducated, violent, and prejudiced "hillbillies." Kentucky-born writer J.D. Vance made headlines with his 2016 memoir