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Berea College

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u003cstrongu003eCost: $50 | Lunch Provided | Limited Capacityu003c/strongu003ernrnThis hands-on session equips grant professionals with advanced strategies to streamline their prospect research using artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT. The focus will be on leveraging AI to uncover, evaluate, and prioritize grant opportunities—whether or not participants have access to subscription-based databases.rnrnAttendees will discover how to craft precise AI prompts to generate curated lists of potential funders aligned with their missions. We&#8217;ll explore how to direct ChatGPT to extract and summarize essential funder criteria, including information drawn from websites, IRS Form 990 filings, and publicly available databases.rnrnParticipants will learn a step-by-step process for refining prompts and iterating AI-driven searches to maximize relevance and accuracy. The training will also demonstrate how AI can help analyze grantmaker patterns and assess the relative competitiveness or return on investment of each opportunity.rnrnThe session includes a downloadable prompt toolkit for continued use after the training, enabling attendees to confidently integrate AI into their daily grantseeking workflow—whether working independently or as part of a development team.rnrnu0026nbsp;rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110159u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Melissa-Vermillion-300&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eMelissa Vermillion is the Chief Strategy Officer for Grant Ready Kentucky. She served Hazard Community and Technical College for 14 years as Director of Grants and Contracts and Dean of Institutional Effectiveness Planning and Research. She has taught grant writing since 2016 and is one of only 13 individuals in Kentucky who have earned the Grant Professional Certification through the Grant Professionals Certification Institute and the first within KCTCS.u003c/divu003ernu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eu003c/divu003ernu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eShe has successfully written grant applications for both federal and state agencies, as well as private foundations, securing almost $50 million in grant funding. Prior to joining the college, she served as the Director for Aging Programs in Perry County where she was also successful in a variety of grant and fundraising opportunities, tripling the amount of funding to the program over her tenure.u003c/divu003ernu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eu003c/divu003ernu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eMelissa has a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration and MBA from Morehead State University. She is currently enrolled in the Doctorate of Adult and Higher Education program at Morehead State University. She has been married to Kevin Vermillion for 37 years and has two adult children, Rebekah and Alex.u003c/divu003e

Finding Grant Opportunities with ChatGPT | Melissa Vermillion, Grant Ready Kentucky

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u003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID3u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003eSmall teams, tight budgets, big missions &#8211; sound familiar? Leadership Tri-County faced the same constraints until a human-first AI strategy rewired how they craft grant proposals, donor letters, board communication, press releases, curricula, and social media content. In this intensive track, Dr. Jordyne Carmack, Executive Director of Leadership Tri-County, talks you through the exact playbook that took LTC from “we’ll get to it someday” to “done by lunch.” Together, we’ll reverse-engineer use case studies from the past two years &#8211; including grant proposals, outcome reports, social content, media pitches, donor emails, and training modules &#8211; showing the prompts, tool stack (all low- or no-cost), and guardrails that kept the work ethical and mission-centered. Participants will: 1. Identify high-effort communication tasks by time cost and mission impact that could be improved with AI assistance. 2. Assemble a mini “brand toolkit” and use it to train an AI assistant so draft outputs align more closely with their organization and audience. 3. Apply a three-step guardrail checklist to improve AI-generated drafts to maintain audience trust and brand reputation.u003c/divu003ernrnu003chr /u003ernrnu003ch5u003eu003cstrongu003eAbout Jordyne Carmacku003c/strongu003eu003c/h5u003ernu003cimg class=u0022alignnone wp-image-109932 size-mediumu0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/KAP_2492-206&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022206u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernu003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID5u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003eDr. Jordyne Carmack, SHRM-SCP is a communication strategist, educator, and Founder/CEO of AuthentiLEAD who equips individuals and teams to thrive through transformative learning experiences. As Executive Director of Leadership Tri-County, she guided the program’s digital transformation &#8211; using generative AI to streamline program design, amplify communication efforts, increase development efforts and expand regional impact. A sought-after speaker and Everything DiSC® Authorized Partner, Dr. Carmack delivered the TEDx talk “Embracing Authenticity in an Artificial World” in 2023 and regularly trains teams on authentic leadership and communication excellence. Previously, she taught undergraduate Communication Arts for seven years and now lectures on Current Trends u0026amp; Issues in Leadership at the doctoral level. Dr. Carmack holds a Ph.D. in Leadership (University of the Cumberlands) and an M.S. in Integrated Marketing Communication (West Virginia University). Recognized as NexStar Media u0026amp; Fox56 Central Kentucky’s Remarkable Woman 2024 and a Lake Cumberland 40 Under 40 honoree, she also serves on the Strategic Advisory Board of the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky and is active in SEKY SHRM chapter. In London, she enjoys family time and champions values-based leadership that blends technology with timeless human connection.u003c/divu003e

Future-Ready Nonprofit Communications: Lessons from Leadership Tri-County | Dr. Jordyne Carmack

u003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID3u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003eAll across Appalachia communities are coming back to life and in many places downtown storefronts are filling up with new, locally owned businesses. Young people are considering how they can build a future without having to leave, and those who left are being enticed to return as they see how their home community offers new opportunities and the quality of life they want. Decades of work by dozens of organizations and countless dedicated community leaders are bearing fruit as new restaurants, bookstores, coffee shops, and music venues are springing up in long-empty buildings. This track will explore the strategies and resources being utilized by local leaders and entrepreneurs to drive these changes and recreate their communities as places were people want to live. The track is inspired by examples from across the country and around the globe, and draws on insights from a wide range of experiences and mentors, from the earliest days of the Brushy Fork Institute through the current moment.u003c/divu003ernrnu003chr /u003ernrnu003ch5u003eu003cstrongu003eAbout Peter Hilleu003c/strongu003eu003c/h5u003ernu003cimg class=u0022alignnone wp-image-109945u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Hille_head_shot_2018-300&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022244u0022 height=u0022244u0022 /u003ernu003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID5u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003ePeter Hille recently retired after 35 years of nonprofit leadership focused on community economic development in Appalachia. He led the Mountain Association as President and CEO from 2015-2025 after joining Mountain Association&#8217;s staff in 2012 as Executive Vice President. During his tenure, Peter helped expand Mountain Association’s work in many ways, doubling the size of the loan portfolio, increasing support for entrepreneurs and expanding programs to make clean energy more accessible to businesses and organizations serving low-income communities. He also served on the Just Transition Fund’s National Economic Transition Working Group, helping to shape JTF’s Seven Pillars policy platform which has informed federal policies and programs in support of energy communities. Previously, Peter was Director of the Brushy Fork Institute of Berea College, working in leadership and community development throughout Central Appalachia for 22 years. He also served as a consultant to regional and national organizations and implemented community development projects internationally in Russia and Slovakia. Peter currently chairs the board of the East Kentucky Leadership Foundation and previously served on the Berea Human Rights Commission. A graduate of Swarthmore College, he lives with his wife in a solar home they designed and built in the midst of fifty acres of forest near Berea, Kentucky.u003c/divu003e

21st Century Community Economic Development for Appalachian Communities | Peter Hille

u003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID3u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003ernrnWhat does it take to turn a bold idea into a community-powered movement? This interactive track is built for leaders who are ready to move from brainstorming to building. Whether you&#8217;re launching a new initiative or strengthening an existing one, you&#8217;ll engage in hands-on activities like asset mapping, inclusive team building, and vision planning to chart a clear course forward. You’ll explore proven project design strategies, discover facilitation techniques, and practice storytelling strategies that shift local narratives and spark momentum. Through peer dialogue and coaching circles, you&#8217;ll ground your learning in lived experience and apply insights directly to your own community context. Participants will walk away with practical tools: editable planning templates, facilitation guides, and a draft action plan tailored to their home communities. Even more importantly, you’ll leave with a renewed sense of confidence and a strengthened regional network—connected to others who share your commitment to a thriving Appalachia. By the end of the session, attendees won’t just understand new models, they’ll be prepared to apply them. This session equips leaders not just to envision a better future, but to build it, together.rnrnu003c/divu003ernrnu003chr /u003ernrnu003ch5u003eu003cstrongu003eAbout Stacy Hendersonu003c/strongu003eu003c/h5u003ernu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-109954u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Stacy_Henderson_-205&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022205u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernu003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID5u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003eStacy Henderson is a trusted coach, strategist, and facilitator with a deep commitment to helping rural communities in West Virginia and Appalachia thrive. As the Community Coaching Programs Director at the WV Community Development Hub, she leads efforts that support local leaders in turning bold ideas into practical action. With over 15 years of experience in community development, philanthropy, and education, Stacy brings both heart and strategy to every conversation. Her work is grounded in the belief that small towns hold big potential, and that the people who live there already have the tools they need to shape their future. Stacy’s approach is hands-on, people-centered, and rooted in the messy but meaningful process of building trust and momentum over time. She has helped dozens of towns navigate transitions, find their voice, and launch initiatives that are both visionary and doable. Stacy is known for her direct style and her ability to bring groups together even when the stakes are high. She has spoken at regional and national conferences about grassroots leadership, economic resilience, and the power of local ownership. Originally from Richwood West Virginia, she now lives in Fairmont with her husband and their blended family of four teenagers and young adults and two dogs. She believes deeply in showing up, building things that last, and making the work fun whenever possible.u003c/divu003ernu003cdivu003ernrnu003chr /u003ernrnu003c/divu003ernu003ch5u003eu003cstrongu003eAbout Jenny Tottenu003c/strongu003eu003c/h5u003ernu003cdivu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-109953u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Jenny-totten-193&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022193u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003eu003c/divu003ernu003cdivu003ernu003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID9u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003eJenny Totten, a native of West Virginia, now calls Franklin home after several attempts to leave her Appalachian roots—only to rediscover her passion within them. Though professionally trained in aerospace and robotics engineering, her journey through Haiti, the 1890 extension system, and the West Virginia nonprofit sector led her to a more fulfilling path: helping communities engineer their own futures. With over 15 years of experience in community development and local food systems, Jenny focuses on grassroots efforts and systems-based approaches to regional change. Her work centers on rural economic models, youth programs, leadership development, entrepreneurship, agroforestry, and applying technology to rural issues. In addition to her university role, Jenny runs a small cut flower business and finds peace in cross stitching. She also enjoys hiking, trail running, kayaking, and traveling in search of culinary and music experiences—usually with her dog, Oliver, by her side. Jenny holds a BS in aerospace engineering and an MS in unmanned systems from Virginia Tech. She is an alumna of the Appalachian Leadership Institute, sponsored by the Appalachian Regional Commission. Her honors include the West Virginia Beacon Award and recognition as a finalist for the Rockefeller Food System Fellowship.u003c/divu003ernu003cdivu003ernrnu003chr /u003ernrnu003ch5u003eu003cstrongu003eAbout Amanda Workman Scottu003c/strongu003eu003c/h5u003ernu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110017u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMG_5337-copy-768&#215;768-1-206&#215;300.pngu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022206u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnu003cspan data-olk-copy-source=u0022MessageBodyu0022u003eAmanda Workman Scottu003c/spanu003e is the Director of Community Engagement at the West Virginia Community Development Hub, where she leads efforts to inspire and support community-led change across the state. With a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from West Virginia University and an MBA from Averett University, Amanda brings a unique blend of social insight and strategic leadership to her work.rnu003cdivu003ernu003cp dir=u0022ltru0022u003eOver the past 11 years, Amanda has dedicated herself to working alongside rural communities throughout West Virginia, serving as a coach, collaborator, and advocate. Her approach is rooted in deep listening, experimentation, and the belief that sustainable change happens when residents are empowered to shape the future of their own communities. She has supported a wide range of initiatives focused on economic development, leadership training, and civic engagement, always prioritizing authentic relationships and inclusive processes.u003c/pu003ernu003cp dir=u0022ltru0022u003eAmanda is passionate about the power of local voices and believes that meaningful community engagement is not just a strategy, it is the foundation for all successful development work. She brings this conviction to every project, helping communities turn ideas into action and challenges into opportunities.u003c/pu003ernu003cp dir=u0022ltru0022u003eAmanda lives in North Central West Virginia with her husband and two children, where she continues to stay actively involved in local initiatives. Whether facilitating a community meeting, mentoring emerging leaders, or championing innovative programs, Amanda is committed to helping West Virginians build vibrant, resilient places to call home.u003c/pu003ernrnu003c/divu003ernu003c/divu003ernu003c/divu003e

Cultivating Community Leadership through Practical Tools and Proven Strategies | Stacy Henderson, Jenny Totten, u0026 Amanda Workman Scott

u003cpu003eHow can mission-driven leaders create meaning for their organizations and for themselves? How can we fulfill and further our missions, increase the effectiveness of our organizations, and maintain our own personal balance and strength. Through an interactive workshop we will examine what it means to be a servant leader and talk about the ways in which a non-profit leader can tap into their unique gifts to be the best leader they can be for their organizations, their people and themselves.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110162u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Tim-Monroe-300&#215;200.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022200u0022 data-mce-src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Tim-Monroe-300&#215;200.jpgu0022u003eu003c/pu003eu003cpu003eTim is a mission-driven executive with more than 35 years of rewarding work in a variety of compelling, non-profit settings. He is a strong strategic communicator with a successful track record of servant leadership, fundraising, board development and strategic planning. He has worked in higher education, independent schools and public broadcasting. Most recently, he was Executive Director at El Hogar Ministries, Inc. and prior to that served as Executive Director of Development at Rhode Island School of Design. Just this year, he launched his own consulting business to work with mission driven non-profits to build organizational strength and capacity. The aim of Tim Monroe Consulting, LLC is to help those that are doing good in the world fulfill their missions and maximize their effectiveness. Tim holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Tufts University and a master’s in education from Lesley University. He lives in Berea, KY and is the First Gentleman of Berea College, where his wife, Cheryl Nixon, is President.u003c/pu003e

The Path to Servant Leadership | Tim Monroe

u003cpu003eTired of feeling like you have to do it all? This workshop flips the script from managing people to coaching them. Whether you&#8217;re leading staff, volunteers, or community coalitions, you’ll explore how to use coaching tools to grow confidence, ownership, and shared leadership. We’ll demo fun and formal tools—from the Color/Bird communication quiz to AI-supported feedback planning—and help you match the right tool to the right moment. You’ll leave with a coaching mindset, a stronger team culture, and practical strategies to grow people, not just programs.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110160u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susan-Douglas-240&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022240u0022 height=u0022300u0022 data-mce-src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susan-Douglas-240&#215;300.jpgu0022u003eu003c/pu003eu003cpu003eSusan Douglas is the CEO of Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road Council, leading with purpose across 66 counties in Kentucky and one Ohio county. She launched a comprehensive campaign during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now spearheading the development of the Girl Scout Leadership Campus in Northern Kentucky—opening in 2026 as a hub for STEM, outdoor adventure, and girl-centered growth.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eUnder her leadership, the Council has earned national recognition, including the 2018 Brandon Hall Gold Excellence Award and the 2017 Million Women Mentors Step-Up for STEM Award. Susan also launched a Transformational Leadership Program to support staff development.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eShe was honored with the 2024 Isabelle Yates Community Service Award, named a 2023 Georgetown College Distinguished Alumni, and serves on the EducateNKY Advisory Committee and Kentucky’s Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence. Susan is an alumna of Leadership Kentucky and Leadership Northern Kentucky.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eA native of Ashland, she holds degrees from Georgetown College and the University of Florida, and enjoys road trips and home renovations with her partner Chad and their two rescue dogs, Bones and Monkey.u003c/pu003e

Coach, Don’t Carry: People Development Tools that Build Culture, Confidence, and Capacity | Susan Douglas

u003cpu003eThrough the Central Appalachia Leadership Lab (CALL), Teach For America Appalachia convenes community leaders across lines of difference, grounded in the belief that a myriad of cross-sector points of connection will facilitate futures filled with possibility for Appalachian kids. The CALL program reflects the belief that each of us has a role to play in achieving educational excellence. Through a three-year, cohort-based experience bridging Central Appalachian communities, CALL members build public will and momentum toward shared goals in education, collaborate across different perspectives, points of view, and positions, and deeply learn about the power of place through visiting 12 Appalachian communities. This session features lessons learned from the CALL program, over the last four years, about network weaving and cross-sector collaboration. Participants will leave with a resource bank of practical tips, and will hear from the program manager and CALL members directly. Join this session to learn.. what hypotheses did we test about building cross-sector collaborations? What have we tried and failed at? Where have we found unexpected success in weaving networks?u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone wp-image-110167u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Samantha-Glaser-1-300&#215;233.jpegu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022246u0022 height=u0022191u0022 data-mce-src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Samantha-Glaser-1-300&#215;233.jpegu0022u003eu003c/pu003eu003cpu003eSamantha Glaser serves as the Senior Director of Alumni Talent u0026amp; External Partnerships at Teach For America (TFA) Appalachia. With over a decade of experience at the intersections of research and evaluation, postsecondary access and success, and community capacity building, Sam has worked across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Her past roles include positions in education at New York University, Berea College, Coffey Consulting (formerly JBL Associates), and College Advising Corps. In her current role, she manages a leadership development program called the Central Appalachia Leadership Lab, a regional leadership development program for community leaders committed to educational excellence in Eastern Kentucky, Southwest Virginia, Northeast Tennessee, and West Virginia.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eSam holds a master&#8217;s degree in Higher Education from New York University and a bachelor&#8217;s degree from the University of Virginia. Sam grew up in Abingdon, Virginia and is now rooted in Hazard, Kentucky. You can find her there thrifting for treasures, hosting a cake walk at the local farmers market, or traveling all over Central Appalachia with her husband and one-year old son.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone wp-image-110560u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Picture2-300&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022195u0022 height=u0022195u0022 data-mce-src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Picture2-300&#215;300.jpgu0022u003eu003c/pu003eu003cpu003eMorgan Kirk is a seasoned professional with expertise in sociology and social work, currently serving at Aetna Better Health, where she addresses the vital intersections of social determinants of health and health equity. A native of Harlan, Kentucky, Morgan&#8217;s upbringing fostered a profound commitment to community empowerment, and she dedicates her time to both professional and personal community initiatives. Passionate about creating lasting, positive changes, Morgan actively contributes to local and national efforts aimed at fostering equity and well-being. She is a 2023 cohort of the Central Appalachian Leadership Lab through Teach for America and won the 2018 Young Woman of the Year Award in Perry County for her dedication to volunteerism. She continues to champion collaborative approaches to improve community health and equity through her board positions focused on food security and increasing the involvement of fathers to decrease adverse childhood experiences.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone wp-image-110561u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Picture1-300&#215;300.pngu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022192u0022 height=u0022192u0022 data-mce-src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Picture1-300&#215;300.pngu0022u003eu003c/pu003eu003cpu003eSam Keathley is the Senior Workforce Analyst at the Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS) and is a native of Pike County currently living in Powell County. Between his work with various U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics programs and the Kentucky Longitudinal Data System, Sam has more than a decade of experience making education and workforce data accessible to professionals across the state.u003c/pu003eu003cpu003eu003cbru003eu003c/pu003e

Network Weaving u0026 Cross-Sector Collaboration: Lessons Learned in Central Appalachia | Samantha Glaser, Morgan Kirk, u0026 Sam Keathley

u003cdiv class=u0022x_elementToProofu0022 data-olk-copy-source=u0022MessageBodyu0022u003ernrnAre you facing a challenge in your nonprofit or student group that feels like a mountain? Whether it’s fundraising, member recruitment, event planning, or just getting people to show up—we’ve all been there. In this high-energy, no-judgment zone, each person will share one real challenge they’re dealing with right now. Then we’ll do what we do best: put our heads together and come up with as many creative, wild, and practical ideas as possible to tackle it. No overthinking. No idea is too out-there. What to expect: fast-paced group brainstorms, real-time support from peers, and leave with a stack of fresh ideas to try. All you need is a pen, paper, and an open mind. Let’s bring the power of the crowd to your biggest problem—and have fun while we’re at it!rnrnu003c/divu003e

Brainstorm-a-thon: Big Ideas for Big Challenges | Betsy Whaley

u003cp class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eThis workshop will provide a framework for creating safe spaces for storytelling and working with our own and our community members’ stories for personal healing, building on stories to foster community and influence public conversations and advocacy. Participants will identify powerful stories, identify potential audiences, and shape a particular story for public witness, social media and advocacy with decision makers. We will address questions including: What is a story you have to tell? What is a story in your community that you want to be heard? What is a story that illustrates the crisis our communities, in particular, our most vulnerable members, face today. How would you complement that story with bullet point for public speaking, social media, or focused advocacy with decision makers. Participants will leave with templates and an action plan as well as links to great story telling organizations.u003c/pu003eu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eu003cbru003eu003c/divu003eu003cdivu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110411u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Michael_Tierney_storytelling_photo-240&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022240u0022 height=u0022300u0022 data-mce-src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Michael_Tierney_storytelling_photo-240&#215;300.jpgu0022u003eu003c/divu003eu003cdivu003eu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eMichael Tierney has created story telling, sharing and advoacy projects since first coming to WV at 20 and working as a disability rights organizer in 1978. He founded Step by Step in 1988 as a writing group of youth in the WV child welfare system inspired by a 13 year old who told her story of surviving and escaping sexual abuse, so that “people would know they are not alone.” He founded a Foxfire modeled program at South Boston High School, then the epicenter of violence around school desegregation in the north, in 1980, to empower students to explore each other’s lives when it was not safe to visit each other’s neighborhoods. He has drawn on his own childhood experiences to create the Lighthouse Project through which he speaks out and provides workshops with survivors of sexual abuse and other trauma. He has worked with undergraduate and graduate students gathering stories of community activism as part of the WV Activist Archive since 2009. This workshop draws on materials he developed in these ongoing initiatives as well as workshops at the Appalachian Studies Association, the National Association of Social Workers, with Scottish community educators, the Rama Key (off Bluefields, Nicaragua) Community Center, and with Roma activists from Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania and Slovakia. He also writes story based songs and, as BookDad, promotes children’s literature.u003c/divu003eu003c/divu003eu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eu003cbru003eu003c/divu003eu003c/divu003e

Trauma Informed Storytelling for Healing, Community Building and Public Witness | Michael Tierney

In this focused session, grant professionals will discover how to harness the power of ChatGPT to identify, assess, and prioritize grant opportunities with greater efficiency. This presentation explores how to use AI to generate tailored funding leads, interpret funder information from public data sources, and evaluate fit and competitiveness—all without the need for expensive prospecting software.rnrnParticipants will leave with a solid understanding of how to structure AI prompts, what ChatGPT can (and can’t) do for prospect research, and how to integrate AI into their grant development workflow. A downloadable prompt guide will be provided for continued use after the session.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110159u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Melissa-Vermillion-300&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnMelissa Vermillion is the Chief Strategy Officer for Grant Ready Kentucky. She served Hazard Community and Technical College for 14 years as Director of Grants and Contracts and Dean of Institutional Effectiveness Planning and Research. She has taught grant writing since 2016 and is one of only 13 individuals in Kentucky who have earned the Grant Professional Certification through the Grant Professionals Certification Institute and the first within KCTCS.rnrnShe has successfully written grant applications for both federal and state agencies, as well as private foundations, securing almost $50 million in grant funding. Prior to joining the college, she served as the Director for Aging Programs in Perry County where she was also successful in a variety of grant and fundraising opportunities, tripling the amount of funding to the program over her tenure.rnrnMelissa has a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration and MBA from Morehead State University. She is currently enrolled in the Doctorate of Adult and Higher Education program at Morehead State University. She has been married to Kevin Vermillion for 37 years and has two adult children, Rebekah and Alex.

Leveraging AI for Smarter Grant Prospecting with ChatGPT | Melissa Vermillion

This workshop offers a practical and accessible introduction to strategic planning tailored for small and mid-sized nonprofits. Participants will learn how to set mission-driven goals, define clear priorities, and outline realistic, actionable steps that align with their organization’s vision and capacity. The session will also explore how to engage stakeholders, measure progress, and adapt plans in response to growth and change. Whether you&#8217;re starting from scratch or seeking a more intentional direction, this workshop will provide tools, templates, and guidance to help you begin building a strategic plan that’s focused, achievable, and ready to put into action.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110164u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kiana-Mahjub-1-200&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022200u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnKiana Mahjub is an artist, cultural organizer, and nonprofit leader dedicated to building equitable and creative communities through arts and public engagement. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Berea Arts Council in Berea, Kentucky, where she leads interdisciplinary initiatives that connect artists, educators, and local residents to explore regional identity, history, and social change through the arts.rnrnWith over a decade of experience in strategic planning, arts administration, and community-based programming, Kiana has worked with small and mid-sized nonprofits to strengthen mission alignment, improve organizational sustainability, and amplify underrepresented voices. Her work centers on collaboration, storytelling, and capacity-building for rural and historically marginalized communities.

Strategic Planning for Small and Medium Nonprofits | Kiana Mahjub

Storytelling is a powerful communication technique that connects people and builds bridges, relationships, and trust. It is also one of the most effective communication techniques that human beings employ to share their culture, history, legends, values, and humanity. Learn to tell your own true, personal story in a compelling manner that reveals who you are and your dreams, priorities, values, and vulnerabilities. You will create your own inspiring story in a manner that makes your message memorable, impactful, and powerful. Storytelling is useful whenever you are giving a speech, interviewing, meeting new people, and giving presentations. The often unrealized benefit in telling your story is that you never know who you will help by sharing your experiences, struggles, and challenges. Invariably, you always help and support others who going through similar experiences. Explore and share your superpower through your own awe inspiring story.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110165u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Raymond-Lauk-300&#215;200.pngu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022200u0022 /u003ernrnDr. Raymond Lauk is an associate professor of educational leadership at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, KY, where he teaches graduate level educational leadership courses and undergraduate courses in diversity and management. Ray retired from Illinois public education in 2019, where he spent most of his career as a school district superintendent, business manager, principal, and elementary school teacher in highly diverse communities. He was also the superintendent overseas at the American School of Brasilia, Brazil. In 1978, Ray was one of Illinois’s first elected 18 year-old school board members. His Ph.D., MBA, and Master’s Degree in Elementary Education are all from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Ray received his B.S. with Honors degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder. A native of Chicago, Ray has been trained in storytelling and comedy at Chicago’s Second City Theater. He has performed storytelling and stand-up comedy throughout Chicago, Rio de Janeiro, and Bangkok. In his spare time he is a runner who has completed 12 Chicago Marathons in the past 15 years as well as the 2024 Berlin Marathon and the 2025 Rome Marathon. Ray has also been an entrepreneur and was the owner of Dr. Ray’s Toffee, a skill he learned as a student teacher in Boulder, CO.

Sharing the Magic: Storytelling for Leaders | Dr. Raymond Lauk

Ready to turn personality into productivity? This interactive, fast-paced workshop uses the Myers-Briggs framework to help your team solve challenges together — while having a little fun along the way. You&#8217;ll explore how different personality preferences show up in the workplace, and how embracing those differences can unlock powerful collaboration, improve communication, and boost morale. Whether you&#8217;re a big-picture dreamer or a detail-loving doer, a planner or a spontaneous problem-solver — your strengths matter. When we understand each other better, we can drive more meaningful change — together.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022size-medium wp-image-110174u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/annette_face_2C_bee_earrings-233&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022233u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnAnnette R. Hines is a passionate community organizer, creative strategist, and lifelong advocate for housing justice, education justice and rural equity. With over two decades of experience in education and nonprofit leadership, Annette brings heart, humor, and a deep love for Eastern Kentucky into every project she leads. She is one of the founders of the Eastern Kentucky Community Land Trust, where she’s pioneering people-powered solutions to affordable housing and land stewardship. Whether she&#8217;s hosting a quilt-making workshop to spark conversations about home or leading campaigns for proactive rental inspections, Annette is always building bridges between policy and people. Known for her down-to-earth style and get-it-done attitude, Annette blends grassroots organizing with strategic planning, helping everyday folks find their voice and power. She believes that real change starts with listening, laughter, and a little bit of boldness. When she&#8217;s not organizing community events or mentoring the next generation of leaders, you’ll find her gardening, reading Appalachian fiction, or enjoying time with her grandkids.

Synergy for Service: Unleashing Your Team's Impact Through Collaboration | Annette Hines

In this session we will explore approaches to making evaluation work for everyone. Evaluation is an important tool that is used to measure success and highlight opportunities for improvement. How can we ensure that the data being collected and reported is truly impactful for your work and community beyond the final report? Pulling on themes of trust-based grant making, storytelling and participatory evaluation strategies, this time will be used to explore how to make evaluation a powerful force for your work.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110529u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/DSC_4825-scaled-e1639753482599-724&#215;1024-1-212&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022212u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnFaye blends nearly a decade of career in health and well-being program delivery, research and evaluation at the University of East London, Institute of Health and Human Development, England with over a decade of local food system work in Kentucky. Her work centers around program evaluation, emergent facilitation and nurturing strategic impact for Grow Appalachia. Grow Appalachia&#8217;s vision is a vibrant, regional food system where healthy food is accessible to all. When she isn&#8217;t working for Grow Appalachia you may find Faye enjoying her family, and sharing songs and home-grown food around her hometown of Berea.

Generative Evaluation: Strategies for Delivering Impactful Evaluations | Faye Adams-Eaton

Many communities feel left behind in the push for economic growth, often lacking the resources and attention needed to thrive. This session explores actionable strategies for engaging local residents, identifying their unique economic priorities, and building collaborative plans for sustainable development. Using the example of a nonprofit grocery store guided by cooperative principles, attendees will learn how to mobilize community members and stakeholders to create meaningful change. Discover practical tools for fostering trust, facilitating inclusive dialogue, and launching projects that address economic empowerment. Join me to gain insights and inspiration for transforming overlooked neighborhoods into vibrant, self-sustaining communities.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110161u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Rhondell-Miller-300&#215;300.pngu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnRhondell Miller is a dynamic nonprofit leader with over 30 years of experience dedicated to transforming organizations and enhancing community impact.rnrnThroughout her career, Rhondell Miller has successfully increased budgets/capacity, led capital campaigns, and redefined organizational missions. In her last role as an Executive Director, she grew the annual budget from $60,000 to over $1 million, demonstrating her strategic vision and commitment to community development.rnrnInspired by the transformative power of the arts during her childhood, Rhondell believes in fostering creativity and resilience within communities. Her mission is to empower nonprofits to thrive through innovative strategies and sustainable practices.rnrnCurrently, Rhondell provides consulting services to nonprofits, focusing on revenue diversification, program enhancement, community development and strategic planning.rnrnWhen she’s not working, Rhondell enjoys reading with a cup of tea, playing with her grandkids, and exploring the Appalachian Trail. Rhondell is proud of her deep Appalachian roots and the persevering spirit that her ancestors instilled in her life.

Creating Economic Development in a Forgotten Neighborhood | Rhondell Miller

Discover the transformative power of co-creation—an intentional, relational, and iterative approach that invites all participants to contribute their knowledge, ideas, and experiences. Together, we’ll explore how this collaborative method leads to meaningful outcomes, shared ownership, authentic engagement, and collective impact.rnrnRooted in narrative-based community practices and inspired by Peter Block’s u003cemu003eCommunity: The Structure of Belongingu003c/emu003e, EngageKY has embraced co-creation as a guiding philosophy in leadership, meetings, and training and event planning. This innovative approach flattens traditional hierarchies, redistributing decision-making power and project ownership equally among participants and leadership.rnrnIn this interactive session, we’ll share our co-creation journey and demonstrate how it has fostered a culture of belonging within our organization and the communities we serve. Participants will:rnu003culu003ern tu003cliu003eLearn what co-creation is and why it mattersu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eUnderstand the rationale behind using co-creation as both philosophy and methodologyu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eHear real-world examples of how EngageKY has applied co-creation to build community and ownershipu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eEngage in a brief co-creation experience themselvesu003c/liu003ernu003c/ulu003ernLeave feeling inspired and empowered to integrate co-creation into your own leadership and organizational practices.

Let Go to Lead More: Shared Ownership Through Co-Creation | Gayle Hilleke u0026 Abby Huffman

u003cp data-start=u0022112u0022 data-end=u0022624u0022u003eHow do communities become more ready to lead change, tackle challenges, and seize opportunities? In this workshop, hear directly from local leaders who have participated in u003cem data-start=u0022372u0022 data-end=u0022398u0022u003ePeople Ready Communitiesu003c/emu003e, a leadership development program of Brushy Fork Leadership Institute. This place-based initiative supports county teams as they identify assets, build stronger relationships, deepen civic engagement, and move from vision to action.u003c/pu003ernu003cp data-start=u0022626u0022 data-end=u00221000u0022u003eLeaders from current and past program cohorts will share real stories of progress, collaboration, and lessons learned—from building youth career pathways to growing tourism to strenghtening community connection. Learn how this asset-based approach empowers residents to lead development efforts that reflect their place, culture, and priorities. Whether you&#8217;re working in a small town, a regional coalition, or a nonprofit setting, you’ll gain insight into what it means to be truly “people ready”—and how that readiness can lay the foundation for vibrant, resilient communities.u003c/pu003ernu003cp data-start=u0022626u0022 data-end=u00221000u0022u003eu003cstrongu003eAbout People Ready Communitiesu003c/strongu003eu003c/pu003ernAt the heart of a People Ready Community is a simple but powerful question: u003cemu003e“Is this a good place for me to live?”u003c/emu003e The answer lies in a community’s ability to offer a high quality of life—through strong schools, accessible healthcare, vibrant arts and culture, reliable broadband, and a welcoming environment for people from all walks of life.rnrnThe u003cstrongu003ePeople Ready Communities Leadership Programu003c/strongu003e is a six-month, team-based experience that equips cross-sector leaders—both emerging and established—with the tools to strengthen their communities from within. Participants collaborate on a hands-on project that supports a locally identified asset area, building leadership capacity through real-world application.rnrnParticipants:rnu003culu003ern tu003cliu003eStrengthen leadership through collaboration and shared visionu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eExplore how quality of life connects to economic developmentu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eCraft a compelling narrative that encourages people to stay, return, or relocateu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eLearn to communicate a vision that supports a thriving, people-ready economyu003c/liu003ernu003c/ulu003ernAs rural communities prepare for population shifts and economic transitions—being u003cemu003ePeople Readyu003c/emu003e means more than just being open for business. It means having the leadership, assets, and mindset to welcome new opportunities and meet the needs of a changing workforce.rnrnu003cemu003eu003cspan class=u0022OYPEnA font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-noneu0022u003eThis program is supported by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ARC or the U.S. Government.u003c/spanu003eu003c/emu003e

People Ready Communities | Brushy Fork Leadership Institute

u003cdivu003ernrnReady to move beyond endless meetings and stalled strategies? Join us for an energizing introduction to u003cstrongu003eStrategic Doingu003c/strongu003e—a powerful, agile methodology designed to turn ideas into action. Whether you&#8217;re tackling complex challenges in your organization, community, or business, this workshop will show you how to build momentum through collaboration, not bureaucracy.rnrnIn this hands-on session, you&#8217;ll discover how to:rnu003culu003ern tu003cliu003eSet clear, achievable goalsu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eDesign actionable plans with measurable outcomesu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eLeverage existing resources creativelyu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eBuild and sustain high-performing networksu003c/liu003ernu003c/ulu003ernStrategic Doing isn’t just theory—it’s a practical framework that helps you u003cstrongu003edo more with what you haveu003c/strongu003e, faster and smarter. If you&#8217;re looking to foster innovation, strengthen partnerships, and drive real results, this workshop is your starting point.rnrnu003c/divu003ernu003cdivu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110528u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/betsy_whaley-1-300&#215;287.pngu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022287u0022 /u003eu003c/divu003ernu003cdivu003eu003c/divu003ernu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eBetsy is a native of East Tennessee and has been serving communities in Eastern Kentucky for 10 years. She has a passion for helping local leaders organize their communities to create the future they dream about through building upon their local assets. She is a graduate of the University of Tennessee and holds an M.Div. from Christian Theological Seminary. As a Fellow with the Strategic Doing Institute, she leads trainings for Strategic Doing Practitioners and employs the methodology in her work with communities. Betsy helped to co-found the community-based network, What&#8217;s Next EKY?!, and serves on the steering committee.u003c/divu003ernu003cdiv class=u0022ewa-rteLineu0022u003eu003c/divu003e

 Strategic Doing: A Process to Tackle Complex Problems Collaboratively | Betsy Whaley

When federal funding becomes unpredictable and traditional grant pathways narrow, communities must pivot strategically to build lasting power and resilience. This session explores the evolution from federal grants navigation to comprehensive community wealth-building, demonstrating how the 8 Forms of Capital framework creates adaptive systems for sustainable alternatives to dependency on external funding. Drawing from fieldwork across Appalachian communities, this session reveals how strategic pivots from traditional grant-seeking toward building community-controlled resources create more resilient, powerful communities. Research and practice demonstrate that developing multiple forms of community wealth—from social and cultural capital to material and spiritual resources—provides stronger foundations than grants alone, particularly for communities facing systemic barriers to traditional funding pathways. Designed for leaders navigating uncertain funding landscapes and policy volatility, this session offers practical frameworks for building community power that adapts to changing circumstances.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022size-medium wp-image-110701 alignnoneu0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shan-goggins-story-map-page.png-300&#215;300.webpu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnShana Goggins is a Federal Grants Navigator with the Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC), where she ensures federal resources reach historically excluded communities throughout Appalachia. Rooted in south-central Kentucky&#8217;s rich storytelling tradition, she learned about resistance and collective action through her grandparents&#8217; Civil Rights era narratives. With twenty years of experience spanning domestic violence advocacy, mental health counseling, housing justice, and higher education, Shana brings a unique perspective to social justice work. As former faculty at Eastern Kentucky University, she taught Appalachian Studies and Women&#8217;s Gender Studies, connecting local activism to broader social movements. Her approach bridges direct service with systemic change, recognizing how individual challenges reflect broader inequities. At BLAC, she combines grant management expertise with deep community relationships to help communities not only access resources but also shape the narratives and decisions affecting their futures. Shana is committed to transforming individual victories into lasting systemic change while challenging regional stereotypes and honoring Appalachian heritage in service of building a more just and equitable region for all.

From Grant-Seeking to Power-Building: A Strategic Pivot Toward Community-Controlled Resilience | Shana Goggins

Trauma impacts people of all backgrounds. As community leaders, it is therefore imperative to deepen our understanding of trauma and to use that understanding to shape our interactions with others. Through this workshop, participants will learn about the six pillars of trauma-informed care as developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Safety; Trust u0026amp; Trustworthiness; Peer Support; Collaboration u0026amp; Mutuality; Empowerment, Voice, u0026amp; Choice; and Cultural, Historical, u0026amp; Gender Issues. Participants will walk away with tangible tools to help them apply these pillars to their own leadership.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110173u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/DSC00121-1-300&#215;200.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022200u0022 /u003ernrnWith a background in nonprofit and higher education, Taryn has over a decade of experience developing and facilitating presentations, trainings, and workshops and in coaching individuals to meet their personal and professional goals. She holds a Bachelor’s degrees in sociology with a minor in peace and social justice studies from Berea College and has completed several graduate courses on human development from Pacific Oaks College. She also holds a Trauma-Informed Coaching certification from The Healing Centre, is a 200-hour registered yoga teacher, and is completing somatic healing trainings through My Vinyasa Practice and Somatic Experiencing International.

Trauma Informed Leadership | Taryn Henning

In this hands-on workshop, participants will discover how Appalachia Book Co. transformed its program development and funding strategy using AI tools for grant writing. The session will demonstrate practical, ethical ways that small nonprofits in Appalachia can leverage AI to overcome limited capacity, develop compelling narratives aligned with funder priorities, and secure resources for community initiatives. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to implement AI-assisted grant writing in their own organizations.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110166u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Natalie-Axton-300&#215;202.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022202u0022 /u003ernrnNatalie is a product developer and cultural producer who specializes in leveraging technology to amplify arts and storytelling. As Head of Product at Keyosk, she develops AI-powered tools that help creators build sustainable revenue streams. Simultaneously, she produces cultural projects for Appalachia Book Company, including the u0022Blood Rootsu0022 transmedia series and chapbook initiatives for emerging authors. Her work has been supported by the Interledger Foundation, Community of Literary Magazines and Presses, Kentucky Humanities, West Virginia Humanities, South Arts, and the Berea College Appalachian Fund. She focuses on the intersection of arts, technology, and community development, demonstrating how traditional storytelling can thrive when paired with innovative tools and sustainable business approaches.

From Idea to Impact: Accelerating Nonprofit Growth with AI-Powered Grant Writing | Natalie Axton

Join representatives from Kentucky&#8217;s Levitt Foundation AMP grantee cities—Whitesburg, Berea, and Middlesboro—for an interactive panel exploring how free live music programming builds bridges, develops emerging leaders, and creates lasting community change. Learn practical strategies for cross-sector partnership building, youth engagement, and program sustainability as these communities share lessons learned from their three-year funding cycle and look ahead to 2026-28. Perfect for communities considering music programming or seeking innovative approaches to grassroots leadership development.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110176u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Ali_Blair_Headshot_photo_by_Erica_Chambers-253&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022253u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnA proud East Tennessee hillbilly, Ali Blair put down roots in Berea, Kentucky in 2013. Blair is an entrepreneur and &#8216;Instigator of Community Celebrations,&#8217; She founded First Friday Berea in 2014, has secured nearly $250,000 in grants for cultural events, and produced nearly 100 free outdoor community concerts. She co-owns and operates Rebel Rebel Studio u0026amp; Lounge, Berea’s live music venue, and sister food and beverae business, Peg + Awl. Blair has performed professionally as a fire performance artist throughout the Southeast.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110175u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Valerie_Horn_Headshot-200&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022200u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnValerie Horn is a community leader. Valere is Executive Director at Cowan Community Action Group, Inc. Valerie also serves as board chair and founding partner for the City of Whitesburg Farmers Market and Community Agricultural Nutritional Enterprises Inc. (CANE Kitchen). These programs work together to grow a stronger and healthier community. Valerie believes that communities carry hurt but have the power to heal from within. Valerie has developed partnerships that have created a nationally recognized Farmers Market with a large incentive program including a fruit/vegetable prescription program, a commercial kitchen and event space, and a community center with programming to meet many needs in the community. Valerie worked at Community Farm Alliance as Director for a community-based participatory research project and served as co-facilitator on a UK research project to promote fitness and nutrition through the Farmers Market and CANE Kitchen. Valerie was recognized as a Healthy Communities Champion by the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky. Valerie received the SOAR EKY Leadership Award. In 2023, Valerie received the James Beard Leadership award for her community service and leadership.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone wp-image-110562u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Picture3-300&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022215u0022 height=u0022215u0022 /u003ernrnCelia Shoffner is the Executive Director of Middlesboro Main Street. She is a communications strategist and community leader with a deep-rooted passion for revitalization and regional development. A native of Middlesboro, Kentucky, Celia draws inspiration from a family legacy of entrepreneurship and civic engagement—her great-grandmother was a pioneering businesswoman in the region during the mid-20th century. Celia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications from the University of Kentucky, with a minor in Art and Photography. Her professional expertise spans public relations, stakeholder engagement, nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, and grant writing. She is known for her ability to build meaningful connections and drive collaborative initiatives that strengthen communities. An active volunteer and advocate, Celia has served as president of the Middlesboro Ladies Golf Association, a board member of Middlesboro Main Street, and currently serves on the board of the Upper Cumberland Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky. She is also a member of the National Communication Association.

Amplifying Appalachia: How Free Concerts Create Lasting Community Impact | Ali Blair u0026 Valerie Horn

This session will use the lens of Appalachian Values to help participants discover and express their own values, the values of their organization, and the values of the communities they are in and work with. We will consider the pros and cons of thinking about how such values can guide us, can be misunderstood, and can lead us to misunderstand those who hold different values. Finally, we will think about how to make our values visible in ways that ground and motivate us while also helping other people to see and understand them.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-110168u0022 src=u0022https://bereafaust.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chris-Green-294&#215;300.jpgu0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022294u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003ernrnChris has recently described the core of his work as u0022other people&#8217;s stories.u0022 Chris&#8217;s career has been dedicated to helping all kinds of people from all over the region articulate and share their stories. Chris has been Director of the Loyal Jones Appalachian Center at Berea College since 2012, where he is also an associate professor of Appalachian Studies. He has written extensively about Appalachian poetry and how authors, publishers, and readers use that poetry in their own lives and in the world. Chris is currently editing Loyal Jones&#8217;s memoir.

Appalachian Values | Chris Green

u003cdiv id=u0022QR~QID3u0022 class=u0022InputText IndividualResponseSummaryInputu0022u003ernu003cdiv class=u0022x_x_elementToProofu0022 data-olk-copy-source=u0022MessageBodyu0022u003ernrnHow can communities organize effectively in the face of disaster? In this interactive session, we’ll build on the u003cstrongu003eStrategic Doingu003c/strongu003e framework introduced by Betsy Whaley in Block 3 to explore how mutual aid networks can become powerful engines of disaster resilience.rnrnUsing Strategic Doing’s asset-based, action-oriented methodology, participants will:rnu003culu003ern tu003cliu003eu003cstrongu003eMap community assetsu003c/strongu003e and identify untapped resourcesu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eu003cstrongu003eStrengthen local networksu003c/strongu003e for rapid, coordinated responseu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eu003cstrongu003eCo-create actionable goalsu003c/strongu003e that support long-term resiliencyu003c/liu003ern tu003cliu003eu003cstrongu003eDesign practical stepsu003c/strongu003e to implement mutual aid strategiesu003c/liu003ernu003c/ulu003ernThis session is ideal for community organizers, local leaders, and anyone interested in grassroots disaster preparedness. Come ready to collaborate, connect, and leave with a clear path forward for building stronger, more resilient communities—together.rnrnu003c/divu003ernu003cdiv class=u0022x_x_elementToProofu0022u003eu003cemu003eu003cimg class=u0022alignleftu0022 src=u0022https://www.kfw.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/bugz-fraugg-RTU-2024-scaled.jpegu0022 alt=u0022Bugz Fraugg &#8211; Kentucky Foundation For Womenu0022 width=u0022335u0022 height=u0022259u0022 /u003eu003c/emu003eu003c/divu003ernu003c/divu003ernbugz fraugg is an artist that has been responding to catastrophic disasters in a grassroots manner, worldwide for twenty years. In that time they have observed the spirit of mutual aid being the quality that carries relief efforts and as climate instability unfolds refining skills and lessons that makes mutual aid networks more effective and energized will help fortify our communities. bugz is passionate about nurturing networks of care and this workshop will help cultivate such networks.

Session Descriptions

Early-Bird Session

Intensive Tracks

Workshop Sessions

Block 1

Block 2

Block 3

Block 4