Programs

 

Save the Date! September 16-17, 2026! 

2025 Leadership Gathering: Rooted in Service, Rising to Lead

Jointly hosted by the Brushy Fork Leadership Institute and the Berea College Appalachian Fund, the Leadership Gathering is a regional event devoted to celebrating service-driven leadership, strengthening organizations, and empowering thriving communities across Central Appalachia.

Formerly known as the Leadership Summit, this annual gathering brings together leaders, practitioners, and community builders of all experience levels. Whether you’re an executive leader of a nonprofit or a grassroots volunteer just stepping into leadership, you’ll find opportunities to connect, grow, and lead with purpose.

Rooted in the values of service and collaboration, the Leadership Gathering features energizing sessions, interactive workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities. Together, we’ll foster powerful conversations, discover practical tools, and strengthen the collective impact of leadership in the region.

Come connect. Come learn. Come grow.

Click here to learn more about the 2026 Leadership Gathering.

The People Ready Communities Leadership Program brings together a team of up to 15 community members who make a commitment to grow their leadership skills and while considering how quality of life and a welcoming community support a vibrant economy. The work unites sectors that are not normally considered to be in economic development but that are on the front lines of welcoming new workers, supporting local businesses, and creating accessible pathways for all people to thrive. The program positions communities to answer the question that any worker might ask: “What is the quality of life here for me and my family?” The answer about this quality of life includes a complex balance of community indicators that are the foundation for strong economies—the quality of the school system, access to healthcare, availability of housing, arts and culture, and social conditions for healthy community interactions. Communities that join the People Ready Communities Program will work on:

• A community vision and narrative for a welcoming community with strong economic growth
• A six-month project to support fulfilling the vision and narrative

The People Ready Communities Program allows for active participation that is engaging and will make a difference in your community. For more information about the People Ready Communities Leadership Program, please contact Brushy Fork at 859-985-3858 or email brushyfork@berea.edu.

In a custom program, Brushy Fork staff will work closely with you to create a unique program to meet your targeted learning objectives.  Brushy Fork staff has provided services for:

• volunteer management
• board development
• visioning and strategic planning
• meeting facilitation
• leadership development for youth and adults
• organizational and nonprofit leadership
• other essential skills for successful community development efforts

Fees for services are on a sliding scale. Brushy Fork takes into consideration each organization’s budget and the alignment of their work with Brushy Fork’s mission to serve the Appalachian region.

For more information about Brushy Fork’s custom-designed services, please contact (859) 985-3858 or email brushyfork@berea.edu.