The Holistic Appalachia Initiative realizes that collaboration with other organizations is the major credit for accomplishing this task. Therefore, we aim to capitalize on existing strategic partnerships and working relationships. We intentionally search for and connect with experienced organizations that reside in the state of Kentucky. Their expertise and credibility make it possible for them to work with us. We will implement networking goals to form synergistic partnerships between community members and leaders to find multidimensional and enduring solutions that address the complex problems in Appalachian regions.
Our main partner we work with is Appalshop, a world-renowned multidisciplinary arts and education centre headquarters in Whitesburg, Kentucky. The crew of artists, educators, and cultural ambassadors have been around in the Appalachia region for a long time. They are well-versed in Appalachian history, traditions, and cultural activities. Their understanding of how art and media are used as drivers for positive societal changes will greatly help our focused push to create culturally competent communities.
In addition to the already existent KEF- Kentucky Environmental Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on the conservation of the environment and promoting sustainable practices, we have also allied. KEF’s environmental scientists, ecologists, and policy experts will help formulate a launchpad to push an eco-friendly agenda in the region, ensuring responsible use of natural resources and minimal environmental degradation damage through the policy framework (KEF, 2018).
Our collaboration with the UK’s Appalachian Center and the Appalachian Studies Program at the UK will be immensely important as we establish ourselves. Speaking of this reputable establishment, its extensive research team, education professionals, and community outreach specialists with a vast knowledge of the Appalachian culture, past, and sociopolitical aspects are at the disposal of the general public. With their multidisciplinary perspective and the highest regard for sustainable development, achieving our goals is possible.
The role of the area served, the population, and access to healthcare services, among other factors, might vary. Therefore, this task must engage keenly with these factors. The regional Department of Public Health will have a team of health professionals, comprising epidemiologists, health educators, and community health workers, who will gather data and conduct surveillance, coordinate health education and prevention, and optimize healthcare services delivery in the area.
In addition, we have been involved with the East Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP), a non-profit organization that helps in job growth, business establishment and economic diversity (EKCEP, 2024). Our business consultants, career advisers and industry specialists will make the difference we need as we seek to support the inclusive development of viable income sources and encourage economic empowerment inside Appalachian communities.
To complement the core collaborators, we already have bridged with local community organs, religious entities, and citizens-led efforts. These collaborations will ensure that our initiatives are the backbone of the communities that we serve. They will create an environment in which these communities can trust and appreciate cultural sensitivity and allow locals to participate in obtaining their own goals.
Our partners’ diversity, quality, and practical experience make this group a unique asset to the community. It consists of highly educated practitioners who understand and lend their expertise to the region’s issues. Such an integrated strategy and our shared goal to create enduring and holistic development enrichment will ensure long-lasting solutions illuminating the Appalachian communities we intend to cater to.
References
“Our Work.” Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP) | Federal Workforce Services in Eastern Kentucky April. 2024, www.ekcep.org/ourwork.
Kentucky Environmental Foundation. (KEF) Feb. 2018, www.kyenvironmentalfoundation.org/.
write