Forward Martin County Community Foundation

Mission & Vision

The Forward Martin County Endowment Fund supports projects and partnerships that strengthen Martin County and the surrounding region by investing in workforce development, leadership opportunities, economic growth, community beautification, and initiatives that promote the people, culture, and future of Eastern Kentucky. Through charitable giving, the fund helps create lasting opportunities that empower residents, inspire community pride, and build a stronger future for generations to come.

Forward Martin County believes that Eastern Kentucky and Appalachia are incredible and beautiful places to live, raise a family, work, and serve the community. We believe there is tremendous opportunity here for the current generation and for those who will follow. Our board is centered around investing in the next generation and looking toward the future of our region. That vision will remain the driving force behind our work and growth.

Our Focus

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• Upskilling and developing the region’s youth and workforce
• Creating leadership and training opportunities
• Supporting local economic development authorities and initiatives
• Promoting the region and its communities
• Encouraging downtown and county beautification

Give Now

View our COmmunity Investment Plan

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  Forward Martin County Community Foundation Created to Invest in Martin County’s Future
  MARTIN COUNTY, KY, July 2026 — Martin County has a new way to invest in its future. Forward Martin County has officially been established as a local affiliate community foundation through the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky. Forward Martin County will be a permanent charitable resource dedicated to supporting the people, the communities, and the future… KEEP READING

Explore Our Community Affiliates

Breathitt • Clinton • Floyd • Jackson • Johnson • KNOTT • Leslie • Letcher • Martin • Perry • Pikeville • Red River Gorge • Upper Cumberland

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More Stories You’ll Love

February 24, 2025

Perry County Community Foundation Accepting Donations for Flood Relief

The Perry County Community Foundation (PCCF), an affiliate of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, is now accepting donations for emergency flood relief efforts in Perry County. In the aftermath of the devastating Feb. 2025 flood, the Perry community is in desperate need of relief. All donations made to PCCF between Feb. 20 – Apr. 30 … KEEP READING

January 2, 2025

Foundation For Appalachian Kentucky Welcomes Matthew Benedict as the Stewards Energy Communities VISTA

Hazard, KY, Jan 2, 2025 – The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky has selected Matthew Benedict to serve as the Stewards Energy Communities AmeriCorps Volunteer In Service To America (VISTA). Serving for a full year, their role is advancing locally designed economic development, workforce readiness, and environmental remediation plans in nine federally designated communities. Matthew will… KEEP READING

July 26, 2019

Northfork Local Foods Receives Food Security Grant for Pilot Project

The Perry County Community Foundation is honored to present a check in the amount of $17,300.00 to Northfork Local Foods. The funding is part of a larger effort to address food security issues in the region.  According to the most recent national data, more than 660,000 Kentuckians were considered food insecure in 2017, including an estimated 186,000… KEEP READING