PIKEVILLE, Ky. — In an exciting development for Eastern Kentucky and its neighbors, Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) has received a significant $500,000 grant from Truist Foundation. This partnership is set to revolutionize employment opportunities in the Appalachian region by connecting its talented individuals with high-skilled, remote work positions.
The collaboration between SOAR and Truist Foundation aims to address some of the most persistent issues facing our communities: the decline of traditional industries, the migration of our youth in search of better opportunities, and the stark imbalance between job seekers and job availability. This initiative shines a light on the resilience of Appalachians and the untapped potential within our communities.
Central to this initiative is the collaboration with Code Kentucky, a program designed to upskill individuals in information technology. Supported by Truist Foundation grant, SOAR will:
- Build a Supportive Team: A dedicated team will help Code Kentucky graduates find employment with a variety of employers, both locally and remotely.
- Foster Employer Partnerships: Efforts to partner with remote-friendly companies will ensure Eastern Kentucky talent is recognized and utilized.
- Launch a Talent Database: A new database will promote Eastern Kentucky’s workforce to employers with open positions, showcasing the region’s talent.
“Today’s workforce has adapted to remote work which has created more career opportunities for individuals without having to relocate,” said Calvin Barker, Tri-States (Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia) regional president for Truist. “Our support of SOAR and Code Kentucky’s workforce training programs will help Kentuckians develop the skillsets and professional networks that are critical for remote work and careers. It’s another way we fulfill Truist’s purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities.”
Code Kentucky is looking for participants who are eager to learn, with training programs starting quarterly. This opportunity is open to all, requiring no previous coding experience—just a willingness to learn and a passion for technology.
“We’re so grateful for Truist Foundation, allowing us to build a team directly focused on remote employer engagement,” said Colby Hall, executive director of SOAR. “The reality is Eastern Kentucky and other rural communities in America need a strategy for attracting large numbers of new jobs quickly. With continued investments in broadband infrastructure and with quality training, it’s now possible for Eastern Kentucky talent to compete for any available remote job.”
