About the Network

W.K. Kellogg Foundation Rural People, Rural Policy Initiative

The Central Appalachia Regional Network was formed as part of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s Rural People, Rural Policy Initiative. Rural People, Rural Policy (RPRP), a multi-year national initiative, is based on the premise that “rural America has abundant assets and that the brightest potential for rural America emerges when a critical mass of rural people are stronger, more organized policy actors.” RPRP builds and strengthens skilled networks and organizations to advocate and act in the rural policy arena by shaping policy that improves the lives of rural people and the vitality of rural communities.

Currently there are six networks that make up RPRP:

Central Appalachia (West Virginia, Appalachian counties of Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, Maryland, and Virginia)
Mid South (Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana)
Great Plains (Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Montana)
Southwest (Arizona and New Mexico)
At-Large (organizations outside the other regions)
Network of National Organizations (organizations with missions and activities that are national in scope)

The National Rural Assembly was also developed as part of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation's Rural People, Rural Policy Initiative. The National Rural Assembly is a "network of more than 500 organizations and individuals across the United States working collaboratively to build a stronger, more resilient rural America."

CARN: Mission, Vision, Values

Mission Statement

The Central Appalachia Regional Network (CARN) connects diverse organizations to promote policy and action to improve the quality of life available to the people of Appalachia.

Vision Statement

The Central Appalachia Regional Network (CARN) envisions healthy and thriving communities throughout the region. These empowered communities engage civic, public, and private institutions to create change, and ensure a just existence for all Appalachian residents.

Values

We value:

Appalachian culture, heritage, and context
Education and knowledge
Environmental integrity
Empowerment
Children, families, and future generations
Sustainable place and environment
Healthy communities
Equity in access
Equity in resources
Stewardship
Diversity, inclusion, and cultural equity