CITIZEN STAFF REPORT

MARTIN COUNTY — Martin County residents, businesses and former residents now have a way to contribute to a permanent charitable fund dedicated to local projects and organizations.

Forward Martin County has been established as a locally guided fund under the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky. The local board will identify community priorities, while the regional foundation will receive, administer and invest the donations.

According to a press release from the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, the arrangement allows Forward Martin County to raise money without creating a separate organization to handle investments, accounting and other administrative responsibilities.

Organizers said donations will remain focused on projects and partnerships that benefit Martin County.

“Our vision is to create a stronger, more vibrant Martin County by investing in the organizations and the people who are making a difference,” Forward Martin County Chairman Blake Dials said. “Whether someone gives a little or a lot, every donation helps build a permanent source of support for charitable causes right here at home.”

Forward Martin County plans to build an endowment, which is a pool of donated money invested to provide financial support over the long term.

The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky’s investment policy calls for permanent endowments to be invested for growth while limiting annual spending. Under the policy, between 4% and 6% of a fund’s rolling 12-quarter average may be made available each year.

The policy is designed to preserve the original donations, protect the fund from inflation and provide money for charitable work year after year.

Forward Martin County’s Community Investment Strategy establishes the local board’s priorities for 2026 through 2029.

The organization plans to support education, mentorship, workforce readiness and career development. It also wants to create leadership and training opportunities, encourage economic growth, promote the region and support beautification efforts.

“We want to eliminate the idea that people must leave the region to chase their dreams,” the strategy states. “Our hope is to instill the belief that goals, ambitions, success, and purpose can all be achieved right here at home.”

Forward Martin County wants to attract at least 50 contributors to the endowment over the next three years.

The organization also plans to hold an annual gathering for community leaders, organizations and potential partners. A separate annual workforce development event would provide practical skills, leadership training and career opportunities.

The strategy calls for partnerships with colleges, students, local businesses, economic development organizations and Jobs for America’s Graduates. The partnerships would focus on career preparation, mentorship, leadership development and workforce opportunities.

Forward Martin County also plans to support at least one community project each year. Possible areas include beautification, revitalization or another identified local need.

The organization intends to work with tourism groups to promote the region, attract visitors and highlight Eastern Kentucky’s culture and natural beauty.

The local board includes current and former Martin County residents: Dials, of Lexington, corporate account executive at Central Transport; Vice Chairman Corey Cassell of Inez, director of healthcare administration at Thrive Community Coalition; Secretary Collan McCoy of Louisa, school teacher at the Lawrence County School District; Danna Barnett of Lawrence County, director of entrepreneurship at Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR); Colby Kirk of Inez, president and CEO at One East Kentucky; and Martin County High School student representative Garrett Lowe.

Kathy King Allen, chief community officer for the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, is working with the local board.

The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky is a tax-exempt public charity based in Hazard. Its stated mission includes receiving, administering and investing charitable gifts and creating permanent endowment funds for Eastern Kentucky.

The foundation reported $33.1 million in assets at the end of 2024. It awarded approximately $4.8 million in grants and similar assistance during the year. Learn more at appalachianky.org/financials/.

Donations may be mailed to Forward Martin County, P.O. Box 1261, Inez, KY 41224. Contributions may also be made online at bit.ly/donateforwardmartin.

More information and the Community Investment Strategy are available at appalachianky.org/communities/forward-martin-county.

Learn more about the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky at appalachianky.org/.