State-Level Advocacy for Thriving Appalachian Communities:

At Fahe, our state-level advocacy initiatives are dedicated to educating and engaging leaders on policies, practices, and funding that uplift the residents of Appalachia. In the context of Appalachia, where the issues are multifaceted and deeply ingrained, local leaders serve as a bridge between the grassroots level and larger-scale initiatives. Their involvement is critical in ensuring that place-based solutions are not only effective but also culturally sensitive, community-driven, and sustainable. By empowering and collaborating with local leaders, we can address the intricate challenges faced by Appalachia in a more comprehensive and impactful manner. Our strength lies in combining grassroots expertise with sound research, allowing us to identify and deliver solutions tailored to the unique needs of our communities.

Alabama: Elevating Affordable Housing and Economic Prosperity

In scenic Northern Alabama, we are committed to addressing poverty and housing challenges that surpass national averages. Fahe is dedicated to promoting increased investment in affordable housing across the state, and enhancing funding and financial resources available to nonprofit housing and community development experts. Additionally, efforts are underway to forge connections with potential new Members and establish partnerships with advocacy groups and community development organizations based in the state. 

Kentucky: Preserving Heritage through Affordable Housing Solutions

Appalachian Kentucky, known for its rich heritage, faces a significant shortage of safe, affordable housing. Fahe is working to boost funding for the state’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund, establishing a state-centric disaster response fund, and guiding the allocation of federal housing and community development resources. In collaboration with Kentucky Housing Corporation, the Fahe Network aims to optimize the impact of funds accessible through the recently established Rural Housing Trust Fund. Together, we’re working to address housing challenges and uplift the unique character of Appalachian Kentucky.

Tennessee: Sustaining Growth with Affordable Housing Solutions

From the mountains to Memphis, Tennessee’s thriving economy faces a housing shortage. Fahe is committed to ensuring that working families have housing they can afford in this dynamic region. In collaboration with state advocates, we’re driving a comprehensive, multi-year investment strategy, blending federal and state resources to increase nonprofit developers’ capacity to help address the rising demand for affordable housing. Fahe is actively working to keep pace with the region’s growth, providing affordable housing solutions for working families in eastern Tennessee.

Virginia: Fostering Resilience through Strategic Investment

In Southwest Virginia, Fahe is working towards a more resilient future by increasing investment and overcoming regulatory hurdles. Armed with robust research and expert insights, we are actively engaging with elected and appointed officials, educating them on the unique challenges and opportunities that define Southwest Virginia. The goal is to create a more robust and resilient future for this culturally rich and naturally beautiful region. By focusing on housing investments, educating officials on the region’s unique challenges, and leveraging research insights, we aim to reverse decades of underinvestment.

West Virginia: Breaking Barriers for Economic Development

As the only state entirely within the Appalachian Mountain Region, West Virginia faces unique challenges. Over the past century, West Virginia’s economy has undergone significant shifts, marked by the rise and decline of the coal industries that once shaped it. In response to the evolving landscape, Fahe is actively engaged in addressing policy and regulatory hurdles that pose challenges to statewide housing and economic development. We’re actively working to eliminate barriers hindering access to federal resources, developing new financing tools at the state level, and prioritizing efforts to safeguard West Virginians’ access to safe and affordable housing. 

Mountain Maryland: Collaborative Solutions for Shared Challenges

Mountain Maryland shares challenges with West Virginia, and Fahe’s one Maryland member collaborates closely with our West Virginia initiatives. This collective approach, driven by Strength in Numbers, allows us to address shared geographic and economic hurdles effectively.

Join Fahe in our mission to create thriving communities throughout Appalachia. Contact us to learn more about our impactful advocacy work and collaborative initiatives.