Research & evaluation

Appalachian Center For Hope Inc. received a $145,835 Project Grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) under the Appalachian Area Development program (CFDA 23.002), effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The award supports economic development, infrastructure, and community capacity building initiatives aligned with ARC's strategic objectives to strengthen Appalachia's regional economy and advance self-sustaining economic development. As a tax-exempt nonprofit organization based in Marion, Virginia, and representing stakeholders from the Mount Rogers Health District, the organization leverages this funding to advance ARC's five primary strategic goals: entrepreneurial and business development, workforce and education enhancement, critical infrastructure investment, community and economic development through natural and cultural heritage assets, and organizational capacity building for regional leaders and institutions.

The award complements Appalachian Center For Hope Inc.'s broader federal grant portfolio focused on rural health and substance use disorder prevention and treatment services across southwestern Virginia. This Project Grant supports the organization's mission to build community capacity and foster collaborative regional economic development initiatives consistent with Virginia's approved Appalachian State Development Plan and Strategy Statement.