The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky

We Do Things Differently

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We are more than a traditional community foundation.

We do things differently

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Appalachian Tornado

RELIEF FUND

We are devastated to see the effects of the May 16th tornado on communities in our region, specifically in Laurel and Pulaski counties. Immediately after the disaster, the Upper Cumberland Community Foundation — one of our affiliates — established the Appalachian Tornado Relief Fund. This money will be used to support tornado survivors in Appalachian Kentucky.

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Learn about our

APPROACH

The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky brings together people, ideas and resources to build communities and encourage philanthropy.

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2022 Annual Report
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How We Work

We believe in consistently and intentionally shifting control back into the hands of local leaders.

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We Support Communities

We combine the stability of a traditional community foundation with the innovation of impact investing and supporting social enterprises.

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We Develop Leadership

We motivate and develop community leaders and eliminate barriers to growth.

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We Grow Assets

We connect resources to local people and programs creating equitable, lasting, and positive change.

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What Makes Us

DIFFERENT?

The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky meets communities where they are instead of telling them where they should be. Because, at the end of the day, we believe that investing in the people rooted in communities is the way to make them better.

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TEAM

We are currently hiring! See open positions and the benefits of working with the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky.

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NEWSLETTER

Stay up to date on the work that we are doing in the Appalachian region! Sign up for our email newsletter below.

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Featured Fund
Invest your values with the Appalachian Impact Fund.

The Appalachian Impact Fund pursues relationships with startups, initiatives, and organizations that celebrate Appalachian culture and grow local economies. This fund provides both capital and connections to social entrepreneurs and projects in Appalachian Kentucky.

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Rising Where WE’re Rooted

Discover how we are helping to reclaim the power of community for Eastern Kentucky.

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July 18, 2025

Bonita Compton Scholarship Established to Honor Beloved Educator and Coach

Floyd County, KY — A new scholarship honoring the legacy of Bonita Compton—a devoted educator, coach, community leader, and lifelong advocate for Floyd County students—has been established to support local Floyd County high school students pursuing a post-secondary degree or certification. The endowed scholarship fund is held at the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky.  Born October… KEEP READING
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June 25, 2025

Pikeville Community Foundation Awards EKY Health Occupation Scholarships

PIKEVILLE, KY, June 25 — The Pikeville Community Foundation recently awarded three EKY Health Occupation Scholarships totaling $5,000 to three students pursuing a career in the medical field. The EKY Health Occupation Scholarship was inspired by three physicians with Eastern Kentucky ties that wanted to give back and it provides scholarship opportunities for students who… KEEP READING
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