BUCKHANNON — Appalachian Impact, a local nonprofit committed to building hope for students through mentoring and leadership development, announces the creation of its first Program Coordinator staff position. Through a strategic partnership with WV’s Youth Promise Alliance and AmeriCorps, this position will serve to expand the work of Appalachian Impact and its programs.

Over the past 11 years, Appalachian Impact has functioned as a primarily volunteer-led organization training one-to-one mentors to work with elementary through high school-age students throughout Upshur County. The organization has also hosted Summer Community Camps, Youth Leadership Development, and Open Door Nights at its “Yellow Door at Hampton” community building. The establishment of a VISTA (Volunteer in Service to America) staff position focused on Program Coordination will offer a focused staff member intentionally working to expand mentor recruitment, programs, and the capacities of the organization as a whole.

“We are so excited for this next step of work for Appalachian Impact,” Justin Bowers, Director of Appalachian Impact, said. “We’ve long seen the need for more mentors, more training, more programs, and the expansion of the work we’re committed to here in Upshur County. All of these things require focused time and energy, and our partnership to create a staff position through AmeriCorps and the WV Youth Alliance is a strategic opportunity for us to take the next steps.”

Anyone wishing to apply can find more information about the position online at www.appalachianimpact.org. Applicationswill be accepted immediately throughout the month of March. Appalachian Impact is also currently accepting applications from high school seniors for its “Russ and Debbie Bush Hope Scholarship” at www.hope-scholarship.com. Anyone with questions about Appalachian Impact can reach its director, Justin Bowers, at justin@newcommunitywv.com.