THEIR FUTURE. OUR PURPOSE.
Through collective impact, STRONG ACC partners are building a region where every child – regardless of zip code, race/ethnicity, or circumstance – has the opportunity and support to become, thriving, and economically independent young adults.
2 States
23 Counties
Nearly 1 Million People
400+ Partner Organizations
Our 6 Goals for the Next Generation
Our Partners Say it Best
“The whole is greater than the sum of the parts.” Never have I understood the power and importance of Aristotle’s definition of synergy more than through the work of the STRONG Accountable Care Community. A region empowered to impact through collaboration. Now, there’s a blueprint for the future!”
Dr. Nancy Dishner
President & CEO, Niswonger Foundation
“The STRONG Accountable Care Community is a tremendous asset to our region. They provide a collaborative approach to addressing local issues by bringing experts in various fields together to work on solutions. Their commitment to tackling our region’s biggest challenges through open communication and partnership is a great tool for building a strong and healthy community. Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia is pleased to be a partner in the STRONG Accountable Care Community.”
Sean McMurray
Executive Director, Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia
“The STRONG ACC has been invaluable in connecting our smaller communities across the region to resources and partnerships that we would not have known were available. We are thankful for the collaboration and support that Johnson County has received from the STRONG ACC. It has been amazing to watch this group of diverse organizations grow and thrive and work together to create a better region for the next generation.”
Trish Burchette
Executive Director, A.C.T.I.O.N. Coalition
“Folks in upper East Tennessee and Southwestern Virginia have tons in common. Being from the central Appalachian region and somewhat rural, we have been doing business and sharing experiences for decades and the two regions are inextricably mixed. There is no doubt we have many of the same opportunities and challenges. STRONG ACC is the first organization that focuses on the lives of our youth from the Galax area in Virginia, all the way to the Morristown, TN area. STRONG stands for ‘Striving Toward Resilience and Opportunity for the Next Generation’ and the STRONG ACC strives to focus over 400+ organizations, institutions and businesses toward our goal of making this area an even better place to live in coming generations. Crutchfield Corporation is proud to be a small part in this effort and we encourage more folks to get on board.”
Dan Minahan
Director, Southwestern Virginia Operations, Crutchfield Corporation
“Uplift Appalachia is fortunate to be among the organizations that make up the STRONG ACC. We work to equip and mobilize the faith community to foster health and flourishing, building a caring workforce that can be helpful to other organizations. Being a part of the STRONG ACC allows us to connect with many organizations, helping all of us to communicate, collaborate, and reduce duplication of effort. We are honored to be able to facilitate incorporation of faith-based efforts to address the needs in our region.”
Dr. Andi Clements
Co-Founder and
President, Uplift Appalachia
“UVA Wise and STRONG ACC have a mutual vision to holistically develop our communities and future leaders. It is a pleasure to have partners in STRONG ACC who also work to enhance not only the region’s workforce but its community members’ health, vitality and quality of life. We are proud to have alumni working within STRONG ACC initiatives, to partner with STRONG ACC at some of our premiere events including our annual Southwest Virginia Economic Forum, and to collaborate on innovative educational programming with our STRONG ACC partners. With so many great organizations working together, the future of our region is bright!”
Donna Henry
Chancellor, University of Virginia’s College at Wise
“The STRONG ACC’s work has been instrumental in bringing together the business community, chambers of commerce, education, healthcare and others around the common goal to improve the health of our region. Starting early matters and that’s exactly what the STRONG ACC is all about with their early care and education work in the region. I am excited to see the positive impact it will make for our children and families in the years to come. “
Miles Burdine
President & CEO, Kingsport Chamber
“It has been unique and gratifying to be a part of the STRONG ACC and to see firsthand the excitement and collaboration from various community, health, education, and government professionals from all around Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia with a common interest in improving the wellness and health of our citizens. This collaboration is making a positive and transformative impact within the STRONG ACC’s footprint from early childhood to adulthood; the partners are dedicated and focused on helping families and communities strive for a healthy future for our region.”
Sandy Ratliff
VP, Community Solutions, Locus
September 4th, 8AM – September 5th, 2:15PM EDT
STRONG ACC Regional Symposium
MeadowView Conference Resort and Convention Center
1901 Meadowview Parkway, Kingsport TN 37660