Observations From McDowell

Written by: HFI Senior Chaplain, Chuck Duby

It always amazes me at how surprised I am every time I visit McDowel County, West Virginia.  My wife and I have visited this Appalachian region every year now for the last six years, but each trip affects me deeply.

First of all, I continue to be surprised by how so many live in poverty.  Economic, political and social agendas have taken their toll.  What was once a thriving place with more millionaires per capital than any other location in the U.S. -- where family values and mutual care for the local community were strong -- now has become the 5^th poorest county in the U.S. and one of the worst places for drug abuse in the country.  All this in just 1 ½ generations.

Second, I am surprised by how the residents of this county cope with their circumstances.  Some are barely surviving, while others are taking the initiative to create a better life for themselves and their family. Four local men currently serve as interns with Hope Force staff -- learning construction and life skills as they serve the community on a daily basis.  Hard working and committed, these four dare to dream bigger.  None of them have grown up with a strong foundation of opportunity, yet they have chosen to live and work in an environment that is encouraging their desire for success.  I returned home deeply grateful for what I have been given and often have taken for granted.

Finally, I am surprised by how hard it is to put an excellent program into place. The city fathers told us that education is a primary value. Good education requires full time qualified teachers. Most area schools find themselves largely staffed by substitute teachers without a college degree or credential.  Rental housing is nearly impossible to find.  A “Teacher’s Village” has been developed by our HFI staff with 2 old homes being renovated into bright apartments -- alongside a new build with townhomes. 

Last week over 70 volunteers from from Fuller Center Disaster ReBuilder worked tirelessly on all 3 buildings,  bringing one to completion in time for a community home dedication. 

I am so grateful for the full-time staff we have working and living in West Virginia.  The grace of God is needed on a daily basis to hold on to hope for the community.  Many deposits of encouragement have been made in the past six years and we’re excited to see what’s ahead!