Founding Imrovement
In 1965, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was founded as a pivotal response to the distinctive economic hardships faced by the Appalachian region. Recognizing the area’s unique cultural and economic landscape, the ARC aimed to foster economic development, reduce poverty, and improve the quality of life for its residents.
This bipartisan initiative brought together federal, state, and local governments to collaborate on projects that addressed critical needs, such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and job training. The establishment of the ARC marked a significant commitment to uplifting a region historically marked by its isolation and economic struggles, reflecting a nation’s effort to bridge the divide and empower its Appalachian communities.