Power and Powerlessness

This fund was designed to support grassroots organizations in Appalachia seeking to reclaim power for their communities by challenging systems of injustice and inequality.

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A young girl with puffy hair in pigtails making a peace sign with her right hand, standing against a white wooden wall. She has a playful, slightly serious expression, wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the words 'GRL PW' on the front, dark pants, and white sneakers.
A line art illustration of a raised clenched fist with the word "DOPE" integrated into the design.

Purpose and Overview

The purpose of the Power and Powerlessness Fund is to provide modest support to non-profit organizations seeking to challenge injustice and inequality and overcome powerlessness in the Appalachian Region, with a special, though not exclusive, focus on the four counties of the Clear Fork Valley. Special consideration shall be given to requests from organizations that supported the research and writing of the book.

Grants can be used for, but are not limited to, the following:

  • workshops and learning

  • participatory research

  • action or service projects

  • organizational development

  • other social change activities as deemed consistent with the overall intent and consistent with the charitable intent of the Appalachian Community Fund

Given the size of the fund, grants will not normally exceed $500 per year to any organization. The grant is to be used within one calendar year of receipt. A report on how grant funds were used is required at the end of that year.

A black and white photo of a tree with a hand carved into its bark, a park bench, and a sidewalk in the background.

Founded by John Gaventa, author of the prize-winning book, Power and Powerlessness: Quiescence and Rebellion, this fund supports grassroots organizations in Appalachia seeking to reclaim power for their communities by challenging systems of injustice and inequality. It was created as an expression of thanks and a tribute to the efforts of the Appalachian coal communities that inspired the book. Special consideration will be given to applicants from the Clear Fork Valley area, but all organizations that meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply.

This fund was created as a modest way to attempt to thank these communities and organizations for all of the lessons they taught, the hospitality they gave, and the courage which they exhibit in challenging the issues of power and powerlessness in the region.

History

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