Rising from the Roots
Reviving village life, rooted in land, lifted by community.
Reviving Village Life in Appalachia for the 21st Century
The Appalachian Village Network is a collaborative hub for intentional communities, land trusts, and regenerative projects across Appalachia. We provide a platform for connection, resource sharing, and public awareness. Our members include nonprofits, co-ops, and homesteads working toward affordable housing, food sovereignty, and land stewardship.
Our Purpose Is Simple
We are here to connect, support, and amplify the efforts of people building rooted, resilient villages — places where land, housing, food, and creativity are shared for the good of all.
Through shared storytelling, mutual aid, and collaboration, we’re weaving together a movement that stretches from ridge to ridge. Whether nonprofit or cooperative, homestead or community land trust, each village in our network brings its own gifts to a collective vision: reviving village life in Appalachia for the 21st century.
Why We Exist
Appalachia is rising. From Pennsylvania to West Virginia and beyond, new villages are taking shape — places where housing is affordable, food is abundant, and neighbors are family.
The Appalachian Village Network exists to connect these communities, amplify their stories, and support the work of building resilient, rooted futures across the foothills and the mountains.
Gatherings at the Ridge
The Appalachian Village Network is more than an idea — it’s a living movement, and our gatherings are where that movement comes to life. Here you’ll find upcoming events hosted by our member projects and allies, from skillshares and seasonal festivals to volunteer workdays, storytelling circles, and community councils. Some are small, local gatherings; others are regional events that bring people together from across Appalachia. Whether you’re curious about intentional living, eager to lend a hand, or simply looking for belonging, this is the place to find your way into the rhythm of village life. Join us on the ridges, in the hollows, and around the hearth — community is waiting for you.
Homes in Watercolor: A Line & Wash Workshop
Sept 20, 2025
Join us for a hands-on art experience that blends creativity with community vision. In this workshop, we’ll explore the line-and-wash watercolor technique often used in urban sketching — simple ink drawings brought to life with loose, expressive washes of color. Together, we’ll sketch and paint scenes of tiny homes and eco-villages, introducing the ideas behind our community project while learning an accessible art form you can continue on your own. No prior experience is needed — just bring your curiosity and willingness to play with pen and brush. By the end, you’ll not only take home your own watercolor village scene, but also a glimpse of the future we’re building ridge by ridge.
By Moonridge Institute and From Dirt to Dazzle. PA non-profit organizations.
Hosted by Ghost City Tours, 10 Lincoln Sq., Gettysburg, PA 17325
More Events Coming Soon!
Join Us!
Join the Movement
This is only the beginning. The Appalachian Village Network is open to all who share in the vision of rooted, resilient communities. We welcome intentional communities and land trusts working to keep land in the hands of the people, as well as cooperatives, homesteads, and regenerative farms cultivating abundance from the soil. Just as importantly, we embrace allies, funders, and neighbors who believe in the power of community and want to walk alongside this movement. Together, we are weaving a network that stretches from ridge to ridge, connecting diverse efforts into a living tapestry of belonging and renewal.
Ridges & Roots
Stories, reflections, and resources from the growing movement to revive village life across Appalachia. From updates on member projects to essays on community, land, and belonging, this is where our shared story takes root.
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It Takes a Village
Ordinary people, building resilient communities — an antidote to exploitation, isolation, and…
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How to Get Involved in the Village Movement
When you hear about intentional communities or land-based projects, it can feel…
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What is an Intentional Community? A Beginner’s Guide
When people hear the phrase “intentional community,” they sometimes picture a commune,…
Join Our Network
Contact us at info@appalachianvillagenetwork.com to add your name to the network!
