* Have never been on a YouthWorks trip
* Have previously attended a YouthWorks trip
The hustle and bustle of Charleston—West Virginia’s capital city—stands in contrast to other more rural towns nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. Charleston is the main corporate center of the state, but many people are also connected to the coal mines and are still greatly influenced by the coal culture of rural West Virginia. The city of Charleston is relatively diverse compared to the rest of West Virginia, making it a unique place within the state to experience the challenges and joys of bringing together people from different backgrounds. While the city itself has a more urban feel, the kindness and hospitality of the "locals" remind visitors that the true beauty of the community is in the rich natural resources and relaxed pace of life that characterizes all of West Virginia.
Charleston, the capitol of West Virginia, is located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers nestled in narrow valley in the western Appalachian Mountains. Though small by most city standards, Charleston is the largest city in West Virginia, serving not only as the state’s capital, but also acting as an economic, academic and cultural hub for the state of West Virginia. Despite all of the local and state resources Charleston has to offer, there are still significant portions of the population that are under-resourced. Challenges often associated with large urban areas of homelessness, unemployment, and addiction are significant matters of concern for the community of Charleston. YouthWorks has been partnering with local organizations in Charleston that seek to meet these needs since 2003. We partner with organizations to complete small repair and city beautification projects, provide children’s programming, nutritional resources, and support to the unhoused population of the community.