15 Years of impact
In 2008, Gerry Roll founded the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky.
The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky’s Journey
In the humble confines of a small office in Chavies, KY, the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky’s founding CEO Gerry Roll sparked a movement that would spread throughout Eastern Kentucky’s communities, leaving a legacy of empowerment, sustainability, compassion, and equity. Started with an initial investment of just $5,000 and the support of key community stakeholders, the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky now celebrates our 15th anniversary.
Over those 15 years, the Foundation has put more than $30 million directly back into the heart of Eastern Kentucky, awarded over 10,000 grants, and received more than 12,000 donations. Those donations come from donors big and small, the vast majority from Eastern Kentucky. Beyond the financial metrics, the Foundation has also fostered a network of 11 community affiliate foundations, each playing a vital role in amplifying the Foundation’s reach and impact. These affiliate foundations are rooted in the very communities they serve, ensuring that the Foundation’s impact is localized, responsive, and meaningful.
Another significant aspect of the Foundation’s journey has been its immediate response to natural and community disasters. Whether it’s aiding families in need, supporting nonprofits on the front lines, bolstering small businesses, or collaborating with community housing developers, the Foundation has remained grounded in its communities, embodying the spirit of solidarity that defines the Appalachian community.
As we look back on the past 15 years, we also look forward to a future where the Foundation continues to be a catalyst for positive change, uplifting Eastern Kentucky and its communities for generations to come. The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky serves as a testament to the transformative impact that can be achieved through dedication, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to our communities. Cheers to 15 years of impact, and to many more years of empowering Eastern Kentucky’s future!
Gerry Roll
Former CEO of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky
Since 2008, Gerry Roll has served as CEO of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky. Focused on building communities of people with the capacity to create solutions and the ability to leverage the resources needed, Gerry’s work in eastern Kentucky has been focused on engaging local people to create equity in housing, early childhood education, and health. She is recognized locally, regionally, statewide and nationally as an advocate for rural development and community philanthropy. Gerry lives on the north fork of the Kentucky River in Busy, Kentucky.
As of January 1st, 2024, Gerry has stepped down as CEO and now serves as the Founder-in-Residence until her official retirement on March 31st, 2025.
Looking to the future
Kristin Walker Collins
New CEO of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky
Kristin joined the Foundation nine years ago, and has worked diligently as the Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer to organize and grow the Foundation for the betterment of Appalachian Kentucky. Before starting her career in philanthropy, Kristin worked as an attorney specializing in Family and Municipal Law at the Hollon & Collins law firm. Kristin currently serves as Vice-President of the Hazard-Perry County Chamber of Commerce and as a Trustee of Philanthropy Southeast. She resides in Hazard, Kentucky with her husband, Jonathan, a local attorney, and their daughters, Palmer and Piper.
“I am fully confident in Kristin’s capacity, expertise, and leadership as she takes on this new role. Her commitment to her community and our region brings the perfect skill set needed to lead us into the next generation.”
Gerry Roll
“I am deeply honored to assume the role of CEO. This transition is a testament to the strategic vision and intentional succession planning fostered by our dedicated Board of Directors.”
Kristin Walker Collins
How can you leave a legacy?
You can plan your legacy to support the causes you care about for generations to come – while enjoying tax savings. Not only does a gift to charity remove the asset from the donor’s taxable estate, but it is also the ultimate statement of values. It reminds loved ones, heirs, and the community of where the donor found passion and merit. Charitable bequests add meaning to our lives both now and forever.
Leave a legacy by including a donation in your will or estate plan
Affiliate reach
The Foundation’s first affiliate, the Perry County Community Foundation, was established in 2011. Since then, the Foundation has established eleven more affiliate foundations in order to serve the Appalachian Kentucky region. These twelve affiliates represent twenty counties including: Johnson, Floyd, Breathitt, Pike, Knott, Perry, Letcher, Leslie, Clay, Jackson, Laurel, Knox, Bell, Whitley, Clinton, Estill, Lee, Menifee, Powell, and Wolfe. Through the affiliates, the Foundation connects communities with the tools and resources that they need to thrive. The affiliates are led by local community leaders, enabling them to focus on addressing specific regional challenges. The Foundation’s extensive reach is largely due to the impact of the affiliate community foundations that it partners with.
