Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) is excited to announce that it has been awarded a $15,000 grant from Truist Charitable Fund, a donor-advised fund administered by The Winston-Salem Foundation. This funding will play a key role in enhancing workforce development efforts in Eastern Kentucky, helping to create sustainable economic opportunities for the region.
Investing in the Future of Eastern Kentucky
The Truist Charitable Fund grant aligns perfectly with SOAR’s broader mission and recent federal investments, including the $40 million Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Recompete Pilot Program grant awarded in 2024. The EDA grant focuses on revitalizing the region by investing in workforce development, entrepreneurship, and economic innovation.
Truist’s support will allow SOAR to strengthen its human resource capabilities, a crucial step in effectively implementing this large-scale federal initiative. By enhancing HR operations, SOAR can optimize service delivery, increase employee retention, and ensure compliance with labor regulations—paving the way for long-term, sustainable growth in Eastern Kentucky.
Transforming Lives Through Employment
A significant portion of SOAR’s efforts is channeled through the Eastern Kentucky Runway Program, which connects individuals in 12 Eastern Kentucky counties with meaningful employment opportunities. This program helps participants uncover their talents, develop essential skills, and pursue fulfilling careers with competitive wages.
“With Truist’s support, we are well-positioned to be a catalyst for positive long-term change in the region,” said Colby Hall, Executive Director of SOAR. “Together, these efforts will create a lasting impact by addressing systemic issues and unlocking the potential of Eastern Kentucky’s workforce and economy. We are breaking cycles of generational poverty by offering individuals a renewed sense of purpose and empowering families to thrive.”
A Shared Vision for a Thriving Appalachia
At SOAR, the mission is clear: to fight for an Eastern Kentucky where every person’s unique talents and gifts are leveraged to discover their true purpose. This grant reinforces that commitment by strengthening the organization’s internal capabilities and supporting its goal of providing economic self-sufficiency through employment opportunities.
“SOAR’s work is crucial to fostering economic growth and community development in the Appalachian region,” said David Kidd, Lexington & Eastern Kentucky Market President at Truist. “Our purpose at Truist is to inspire and build better lives and communities, and we’re proud to support SOAR in their efforts to connect Eastern Kentucky residents with meaningful employment opportunities.”
Building a Brighter Future Together
Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and community-driven initiatives, SOAR continues to lead the charge in transforming the economic landscape of Eastern Kentucky. With the generous support of organizations like Truist, the future looks bright for the people of Appalachia.
For more information about SOAR’s initiatives and the Eastern Kentucky Runway Program, visit www.soar-ky.org or contact recompete@soar-ky.org.
About SOAR: Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to solving the population retention and growth challenges in Eastern Kentucky. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, SOAR aims to create a thriving and resilient Appalachian region.
About Truist Charitable Fund: The Truist Charitable Fund reflects Truist Financial Corporation’s purpose to inspire and build better lives. Established as a donor-advised fund administered by The Winston-Salem Foundation, TCF supports local community organizations through grants focused on educational equity, leadership development, and essential community services. To learn more about Truist’s purpose, visit www.truist.com.