Thirty years ago the Mountain Association for Community Economic Development was formed to create economic alternatives that make a difference to people and places in eastern Kentucky and Central Appalachia.

While MACED has engaged in a wide variety of work, there has been a consistent commitment to core strategies. MACED invests in entrepreneurs and gives them tools to succeed. MACED demonstrates ways to develop the region’s economy while preserving and improving environmental assets. MACED seeks and shares information to shape public discussion and influence public policy.

These strategies do not tell the entire story. Thirty years of building relationships in Appalachia have revealed a community of people who defy the stereotypes. They are resourceful, grounded and substantial and their struggles are relevant to the larger nation as we balance the need to strengthen the economy with the need to respect the environment, to insist on living wages and to create opportunity for residents to achieve their dreams.

In celebration of these values MACED is proud to present:

Voices—Reflections of peoples’ diverse experiences that make up the Appalachia of today and tomorrow.    

Standing on the Mountain Journal—Literary expressions of the importance and meaning of Appalachian Kentucky in the words of Appalachian authors.  

Postcards From the Past—Images of the highlights of MACED’s work over the years.

These voices, writings and art celebrate 30 years of working toward stronger and more vibrant communities in eastern Kentucky and central Appalachia.