Center for
Resilient
Communities
Building more just, equitable, and vibrant futures through shared learning, long-term partnership, and practical action across West Virginia.
Together,
We Are Growing.
At the Center for Resilient Communities, we believe that more just, equitable, and vibrant futures are cultivated through shared learning, long-term partnership, and practical action. Our work brings together youth, students, scholars, and community partners to strengthen the people, relationships, and institutions that help communities thrive.
A new generation of leaders with the knowledge, confidence, and support to serve their communities
Partnerships between universities and communities that connect research, learning, and practical action
Networks of advocates, artists, educators, organizers, and public servants working together to strengthen local economies, food systems, and community wellbeing
There Are Many Ways
to Connect
The CRC brings together students, scholars, grassroots leaders, and community partners in a shared process of learning, research, and social action. Whether you are a student, educator, community organization, supporter, or potential collaborator, we welcome you. Learn more about our approach →
Research, Leadership & Education
Through youth programs, undergraduate internships, graduate training, and professional development, the CRC helps prepare the next generation of community-engaged leaders.
- Youth Resilience Leadership
- Undergraduate Research Apprenticeships
- Graduate Training & Certificates
Learning Events
The CRC hosts public events, dialogues, symposia, and training opportunities that bring people together around urgent questions facing West Virginia and beyond.
- Engaged Research Dialogues
- Spring Symposium — Let's Grow Together
- Vibrant Transformations Youth Summit
- Mini-Conference & Early Career Workshop
Give to the CRC
The CRC's work depends on people who believe in the importance of long-term partnership, engaged research, and leadership development. Your support helps sustain programs that connect universities and communities in the effort to build more just, equitable, and vibrant futures.
Partner With Us
The CRC works with organizations, local leaders, schools, and institutions on long-term projects that respond to community aspirations and strengthen local capacity.
We welcome partnerships rooted in shared learning, practical action, and lasting community wellbeing.
Join the Conversation
We invite you to take part in the conversations, relationships, and shared learning that shape our work across West Virginia and beyond.
Engaged Research Dialogues Series
Spring Symposium — Let's Grow Together
Vibrant Transformations — Youth Leadership Summit
Mini-Conference & Early Career Workshop
Learn more about Our Story
The CRC was formally established in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences in 2019, after a decade of research, relationship-building, and projects bringing together a widening circle of students, scholars, and community partners. Below are four stories from members of our current team — scroll to watch each film.
Mentoring in the Mountains
Mentoring in the Mountains tells the story of how the CRC was built to provide the quality of mentorship and support that community-engaged work requires. Through Bradley Wilson's journey from learning with communities in the mountains of Nicaragua to communities in the mountains of West Virginia, the film shows how accompaniment, teamwork, and long-term commitment can help new generations of researchers and leaders contribute to meaningful social change.
Opening Doors to Change
Opening Doors to Change tells the story of how the CRC creates pathways for undergraduate students to engage meaningful community work while they are still in school. Through Gabby Frazier's experience, the film shows how students can grow from curious participants into researchers, project leaders, and mentors to another generation working alongside communities on issues that matter deeply to them.
Purposeful Research
Purposeful Research tells the story of how the CRC supports research that begins with the real challenges communities face and works alongside them to generate meaningful knowledge. Through Josh Lohnes's work on food justice and food sovereignty in West Virginia, the film shows how participatory action research can connect the university to community priorities and contribute to more just and equitable futures.
The Power of Partnership
The Power of Partnership shows how the CRC works alongside community organizations to address complex challenges that require long-term collaboration. Through Grace Dever's work on flooding, water contamination, and community mapping in West Virginia, the film highlights how partnerships can bring people, data, and local knowledge together to support practical action and long-term change.
Connect With Us
Follow the CRC's work, learn about upcoming events and opportunities, and stay connected to a growing network of students, alumni, and partners committed to community wellbeing.
Follow Us
Explore the CRC
Support the CRC's community-engaged work — make a gift today.
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