Appalachian Regional Commission

Definition

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a U.S. federal-state partnership established in 1965 to address the economic and social challenges faced by the Appalachian region. It focuses on improving the quality of life for residents through economic development, education, infrastructure improvements, and cultural preservation, recognizing the unique needs and characteristics of the Appalachian Plateau and its people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ARC was created as part of the War on Poverty initiatives and aims to alleviate poverty in Appalachia by fostering economic growth and development.
2. It encompasses 13 states, including parts of Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Virginia, focusing on both urban and rural areas.
3. The ARC's work includes significant investment in infrastructure such as highways, broadband access, and public health facilities to enhance connectivity and access to services.
4. Educational programs supported by the ARC help improve workforce skills and promote higher education access, addressing long-standing disparities in educational attainment in the region.
5. The ARC plays a vital role in preserving Appalachian culture by supporting local arts, crafts, music, and traditions, ensuring that these elements are sustained for future generations.

Review Questions

• How does the Appalachian Regional Commission address economic challenges faced by the Appalachian region?
  • The Appalachian Regional Commission tackles economic challenges by providing funding for infrastructure improvements, supporting local businesses, and promoting job training programs. By investing in roads, broadband access, and healthcare facilities, the ARC helps improve overall connectivity and access to services. This comprehensive approach aims to stimulate economic growth while addressing the region's specific needs related to poverty and underdevelopment.
• Discuss the impact of the Appalachian Regional Commission's initiatives on education within the region.
  • The initiatives of the Appalachian Regional Commission have had a significant impact on education by providing resources for schools and community colleges, improving educational access, and enhancing workforce training programs. These efforts aim to raise educational attainment levels among residents, which is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty. By investing in education, the ARC helps prepare individuals for better job opportunities and fosters a more skilled workforce that can meet local economic demands.
• Evaluate how the Appalachian Regional Commission contributes to cultural preservation in Appalachia and why this is important for regional identity.
  • The Appalachian Regional Commission contributes to cultural preservation by funding projects that promote local arts, music, and traditional crafts that are essential to Appalachian identity. This focus on cultural heritage is crucial as it helps maintain a sense of community and belonging among residents while also attracting tourism. By recognizing the value of Appalachia's unique culture, the ARC fosters pride in regional identity and supports sustainable economic development through cultural tourism.

Related terms

Economic Development Administration: A federal agency that provides grants to economically distressed communities to stimulate job creation and economic growth.

Community Development: A process aimed at improving the social, economic, and environmental well-being of communities by enhancing their capacities and resources.

Cultural Heritage: The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society, reflecting their history and identity.