West Virginia
Appalachia in Transition
Travel to southern West Virginia for a week-long immersion experience learning from and working alongside West Virginians as they transition from the boom of coal mining into an uncharted future
– This program is available for youth over 14 years old, adults of all ages, and multi-generational groups –
Why travel to West Virginia?
What can we expect to learn?
How do we organize a West Virginia journey with UUCSJ?
Would like to organize a journey to West Virginia, please contact gcollignon@uucsj.org with your preferred travel dates. All journeys are one week long, from Saturday evening through the following Saturday morning. UUCSJ requires a minimum of four months of planning time for this journey.
How much does this journey cost?
For a minimum of 10 participants, the cost is approximately $900 per person, not including airfare. The per person cost includes all meals, lodging, and honoraria for our partners. The price will fluctuate depending on the total number of participants as well as the need for rental vehicles during the journey.
Financial aid is available for up to 50% (75% for youth groups) of program costs based on need and is awarded on a first come, first serve basis. All participants are strongly encouraged to fill out the financial aid request section of the journey application.
Can I see a sample itinerary?
Click here to download a sample itinerary for this program. Specific activities will vary depending on time of year and availability of people and organizations.
Learn More about West Virginia
Appalachia's Sacrifice
- VIDEO: Why the poorest county in West Virginia has faith in Donald Trump, The Guardian | Anywhere But Washington, October 2016 (10:30 minutes)
- INTERACTIVE DOCUMENTARY: Hollow – This interactive documentary is an incredible experience – it takes the viewer through the hopes, dreams and struggles of one of the poorest countries in the country [McDowell County, WV]
- BOOK: What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia by Elizabeth Catte, July 2018 ($16.95)
- ARTICLE:In Place of Need, an Unhealthy Contradictionby Jessica Contrera, Washington Post, March 2017


