Appalachian Resilience, Inclusion, Solidarity, and Empowerment
A.R.I.S.E. Appalachia is a grassroots action council rooted in the belief that Appalachia is strongest when everyone belongs. We bring together people across our region to stand up for bodily autonomy, immigrant rights, and the dignity of every neighbor.
Through advocacy, education, and local action, we organize Appalachians to meet this moment with courage, compassion, and collective power.
Our Mission
A.R.I.S.E. unites Appalachians to stand together for resilience, inclusion, and empowerment. Through advocacy, learning, and local action, we rise to build a future where every voice matters and every neighbor belongs.
Why We Exist
Across Appalachia, families and communities are facing increasing threats to their freedom, safety, and access to care. From attacks on reproductive health and bodily autonomy to growing fear and exclusion directed at immigrant communities, the stakes are high — and the impacts are deeply personal.
We believe no one should have to leave their home, hide who they are, or give up control over their own body to feel safe. A.R.I.S.E. exists to make sure Appalachians are not facing these challenges alone. We organize to protect our neighbors, strengthen our communities, and push for policies that allow everyone to thrive.
What We Work On
A.R.I.S.E. Appalachia is built to be both a movement and a resource. Our work connects people to the information, tools, and collective power they need to protect their rights and care for one another.
Bodily Autonomy
We defend the right of every person to make decisions about their own body, health, and future. From reproductive care to personal freedom, we organize, educate, and advocate to ensure bodily autonomy is protected across Appalachia.
Immigrant & Community Resources
We believe safety and dignity start with access. Our Immigrant Resources and Community Resources hubs connect neighbors to trusted services, legal support, health care, food access, and mutual aid—so no one has to navigate hardship alone.
Smokies News
Local stories matter. Our Smokies News page lifts up what’s happening in our communities—from grassroots actions to policy changes—so Appalachians stay informed, connected, and engaged.
Bill Tracker
Decisions made in Nashville, Washington, and local government directly affect our lives. Our Bill Tracker follows legislation that impacts bodily autonomy, immigrant rights, and community well-being, breaking it down in plain language and showing how to take action.
Run for Office
Lasting change requires representation. We support and encourage community members to step into leadership by running for office, offering tools and guidance to help everyday people become decision-makers.
Register to Vote
Democracy works when everyone participates. We make it easy to register, check your status, and stay election-ready—because voting is one of the most powerful ways we rise together.
Our Connection to Planned Parenthood
A.R.I.S.E. Appalachia works in alignment with Planned Parenthood because we share a commitment to bodily autonomy, access to care, and health equity. Planned Parenthood has long been a trusted provider and advocate for reproductive health in Appalachia, and our partnership allows us to strengthen education, outreach, and advocacy in our local communities.
Together, we help ensure that people across our region have the information, care, and support they need to make decisions about their own bodies and lives.
How We Work
We believe real change happens when people come together. Our work includes:
Community education and teach-ins
Legislative advocacy and action alerts
Phone banking, canvassing, and voter engagement
Coalition building with local and regional partners
Training new leaders and organizers
Whether someone has an hour a month or wants to get deeply involved, there is a place for them in this movement.
Our Values
Everything we do is guided by four core values:
Resilience — We support one another through challenges and build strength together.
Inclusion — Appalachia belongs to everyone, no matter where they come from or who they are.
Solidarity — We show up for each other across differences and movements.
Empowerment — We believe informed, organized people can change the world.
Join Us!
A.R.I.S.E. Appalachia is powered by people who love this region and believe in a better future. If you care about bodily autonomy, immigrant rights, and building a just Appalachia, we invite you to stand with us.
Together, we rise.