Located in the heart of the mountains, the counties for which we provide mental health services are populated by hardy individuals whose primary sources of livelihood include logging and wood products, coal mining, and textiles. The area has been characterized as impoverished, and it is true that many individuals live in poverty in the mountains. The region, however, also supports a strong middle and professional class, with many individuals from the area choosing to pursue local careers in health services and education. The area has recently witnessed a resurgence of a grass-roots effort towards combating poverty through initiatives such as reforming education, upgrading health care delivery, and working for economic growth through expansion of business and industry.

The area also rightly boasts of a rich cultural heritage that includes music, storytelling, crafts, and strong family values. In the spring and fall, regional festivals offer samples of local products and entertainment. Throughout the year, mountain communities generate enthusiastic support for athletic events, and the area hosts many top ranking high school and college athletic teams. The rugged beauty of the mountains provides a wealth of state and interstate parks with hiking and riding trails, streams, lakes, and dramatic scenery. A system of community and private colleges throughout the mountains brings educational opportunities and cultural events to the area. Larger metropolitan areas offering additional cultural events are available within a two or three hour drive.

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