WVFF Holds Annual Meeting and Advances Nearly $18 Million with Momentum Initiative Grant

WEST VIRGINIA (December 11, 2025) – The West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) convened its Annual Meeting today at Oglebay Resort, located in in Region 1, where the Board of Directors elected officers, approved the 2026 meeting calendar, and advanced the Momentum Initiative Grant (MIG) with a total funding allocation of nearly $18 million.

Final MIG award determinations will be released publicly once all required documentation is completed, and all applicants will receive their status on or before the end of the year. 

Elected officers for the 2026 term include:

• Chair: Greg Duckworth
• Vice-Chair: Dr. Matthew Christiansen
• Treasurer: Jeff Sandy
• Secretary: Dora Stutler 
• Executive Board Member: Alys Smith 

“Today’s meeting reflects the continued momentum of the Foundation and the impact we are striving to create across West Virginia,” said Chairman Greg Duckworth. “It is an honor to be elected to serve as Chair for the year ahead. As we set our course for 2026 and advance major grant funding, we remain steadfast in our commitment to responsible stewardship and strengthening the communities we serve.”

In the meeting, WVFF Board Member and Treasurer Jeff Sandy stated, “The wisdom and foresight of the then-Attorney General, now Governor Patrick Morrisey, to help establish the West Virginia First Foundation is what led to this momentous decision today to provide $18 million across all of West Virginia, and for that we are truly grateful.” 

“We are deeply appreciative of our Board of Directors, our Expert Panels, and our staff for their dedication throughout the Momentum Initiative Grant process,” added Jonathan Board, WVFF Executive Director. “This represents one of our most significant investments to date, and we look forward to sharing final award details soon.”

Following the meeting, the Board continued its Hold the Line Tour with a visit to the Wheeling Police Department, an Initial Opportunity Grant (IOG) recipient, to learn more about the department’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program and its impact on community safety.

WVFF’s Annual Meeting concludes a year of statewide engagement, grantmaking, and collaborative partnerships aimed at preventing substance use disorder, supporting recovery, and building a healthier future for the Mountain State. Updates will continue as MIG documentation is finalized.

For more information, visit wvfirst.org.