More About the Visioning Project

By Carey Jo Grace, Outreach Coordinator

We’re starting in the southern coalfields – specifically Boone, Logan, and Mingo counties – because the vagaries of the coal industry have arguably hit that area the hardest. Too few well-paying jobs, declining local revenue, population loss and the opioid crisis are just a few of the many issues communities are struggling with. 

We know much of the state is struggling, so we want to hear from other communities, as well, and hope to eventually hear from folks in all 55 counties as the project continues through the fall and into the future.

This is where you come in: Are you part of a community organization, church, club, or social network that wants to host a visioning session? The WVNJC would love to partner with you! We’re offering small grants to cover meeting costs, staff time, food, door prizes, etc. An organizer will help you plan the visioning session, facilitate, follow-up, and connect with other groups across WV who are involved. 

The WVNJC is also awarding Organizing Fellowships. The 12-week program will offer a stipend to three energetic individuals (one who lives in Boone, Logan, or Mingo County; and two in other parts of the state). The Fellows will recruit community groups, help plan meetings, talk to folks one-on-one, and do some canvassing. 

Interested in hosting a visioning meeting or becoming an Organizing Fellow? Watch for more details about each program in June!