McDowell County Commission on Aging, Inc.

Project Name:

Mountain Strong Youth Initiative

Award Received:

$125,000.00

Award Summary:

Funds are being used to expand youth prevention and enrichment services in McDowell County through a collaborative initiative led by the McDowell County Commission on Aging and the WVU Extension Service. This investment strengthens protective factors for at-risk youth by expanding specialty 4-H Clubs, sustaining 4-H camps and new day camps, and supporting staffing and program resources to ensure consistent, high-quality programming. Resources also reinforce the Students Against Destructive Decisions network through leadership development and peer prevention activities, while providing targeted supports for grandfamilies. By reducing financial and transportation barriers to sports and community-based programs, the initiative ensures greater access for youth facing foster care involvement, poverty, or family instability, building resilience, belonging, and healthier futures across McDowell County.