Shaping Our Appalachian Region, Inc. (SOAR)

Our Executive Director, Colby Hall, had the privilege of participating in a panel on infrastructure projects at the EnergyCommunities Interagency Working Group on Coal & Power Plant Communities & Economic Revitalization’s retreat in Washington, D.C. this week. He emphasized the importance of broadband expansion and the Rye Development pump storage hydropower project. We are proud to highlight our incredible partners leading these critical initiatives: Appalachian Wireless, Accelecom, Peoples Rural Telephone Cooperative, Mountain Rural Telephone Cooperative, Foothills Communications, Thacker-Grigsby Telephone Company, Inc., Gearheart Communications, and Rye Development. Together, we're working towards a brighter future for Appalachia! #EconomicRevitalization #EnergyCommunities #AppalachiaForward #BroadbandExpansion #Hydropower

We're proud to announce that our SOAR Innovation program has received continued funding from KY Innovation and the Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation (KSTC). This support empowers us to provide essential resources, mentorship, and training to entrepreneurs across the region, driving economic growth and innovation. Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/e_pCxQXf

Here's your chance to network and engage with movers and shakers from across the region! The 2024 SOAR Summit Expo Hall will be hosted exclusively at the Appalachian Wireless Arena in Downtown #Pikeville. This year's event features dedicated time for networking and exploring exhibits, providing a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business or organization. Application Deadline: August 23 Fees: $500 for businesses, $250 for non-profits Limited waivers available for schools and community organizations. Apply here: bit.ly/summitexpohall For more information, contact Kirsten Wilburn at kirsten@soar-ky.org. #SOARSummit2024 #ExhibitOpportunity #Networking

Pedro Morgado recently made the big move from Florida to Harlan County, Kentucky, through our partnership with MakeMyMove! Drawn by the beautiful scenery and quaint towns, Pedro loves the quiet community and the ability to work remotely. His journey is a testament to the unique opportunities and charm of Eastern Kentucky! Learn more about the program: https://lnkd.in/eNzSvncw Watch the story: https://lnkd.in/eej33xqw

Looking for a remote job opportunity? We have great news! Our partnership with a global company is bringing full-time, remote customer service positions to Eastern Kentucky, offering: - Pay up to $21 an hour - Full benefits - Equipment provided Join us for an On-the-Spot Interview and Hiring Event in London on Wednesday, July 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Let us help you fast-track your application and get to the front of the line for this event. Share this opportunity with your network! Learn more and get started here: https://lnkd.in/gfFSYaZ7

We are excited to announce that registration for the 2024 SOAR Summit is now open! Join us on October 17-18 in Downtown Pikeville for Appalachia’s premier event, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). This year’s summit will feature diverse programming, including plenary sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and much more. Early Bird registration is available now with promo code "EARLYBIRD", through August 1. This year’s theme: Innovate. Inspire. Impact. Innovate: Discover and discuss groundbreaking ideas and innovative solutions. Inspire: Connect with passionate individuals and be inspired by their stories. Impact: Learn strategies to drive meaningful change and make a lasting impact. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with leaders and innovators driving economic growth and community development in Appalachia. Register today: soar-ky.org/soar-summit24 #SOARSummit2024 #InnovateInspireImpact #Appalachia #EconomicDevelopment #CommunityLeadership

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of hosting our board meeting at the Kentucky Power offices in Ashland. We were honored to be joined by our executive board, our dedicated leadership team, local and state officials, and various community partners and supporters who share our commitment to the growth and development of this beautiful region. A special thank you to Kentucky Power for being such gracious hosts and providing a fantastic venue, food, and hospitality for our meeting. Your partnership and support of SOAR is deeply appreciated! One of the highlights of the day was a roundtable discussion focused on access to capital in Eastern Kentucky for small business owners. This crucial conversation brought together key stakeholders to explore opportunities and challenges faced by local entrepreneurs. We are committed to finding innovative solutions to support small businesses and stimulate economic growth in our region. At Shaping Our Appalachian Region, Inc. (SOAR), we are dedicated to working day in and day out for the betterment of Eastern Kentucky. It is a privilege to do this meaningful work, and we are proud to showcase our efforts to our community and partners. Together, we are making a positive impact and paving the way for a brighter future. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of our board meeting. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and making even greater strides in the months to come! 🤝

We're gearing up for the 2024 SOAR Summit, happening in Downtown Pikeville on October 17 and 18, and we want to hear your ideas! 💡 Have an innovative topic or workshop suggestion? Share it with us and help shape Appalachia's premier event. Influence the programming and get an exclusive invitation to register before the general public. Head over to our website, soar-ky.org/soar-summit24, and click "Submit Your Ideas" now! #SOARSummit #Appalachia #EKY #EasternKentucky

We're excited to announce that the 2024 SOAR Summit is coming to the City of Pikeville on October 17-18! Join us as we bring together leaders from across Appalachia to share ideas and drive impactful change. Save the date and get ready for fresh, dynamic content that will inspire and innovate. Let's work together for a brighter future in Eastern Kentucky! Read the blog: https://lnkd.in/ewEijmBV #SOARSummit #EasternKentucky

We’re honored that Shaping Our Appalachian Region is part of the Truist Foundation’s initiative to distribute over $4 million in grants to nonprofits across the nation. This funding will support our efforts to drive economic growth and create sustainable opportunities in Appalachia. Read more about Truist’s impactful initiative and our plans over on our blog: bit.ly/3TM1nVh