Uniting Communities. Preserving Culture.
Creating Change.

Being a community-led, grassroots organization in Eastern Kentucky, we at The Mountain Grrl Experience greatly value partnerships with organizations such as The Appalachian Pioneer Program. We believe in what the APP stands for and share their passion to create positive change in our area. The support and friendship of Austin Shuck and all those involved with the APP have been vital to our success and continues to mean a great deal to us.

Kris Bailey Preston, The Mountain Grrl Experience

Who We Are

Since our founding, Appalachian Pioneer Program has served communities across 24 counties in Kentucky, with additional on the ground work carried out in West Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Our mission lives at the intersection of culture, community, and care, using music, storytelling, and local partnerships as tools for real impact.

Through benefit concerts, cultural showcases, and direct community initiatives, we have distributed over $50,000 in support of disaster relief efforts and critical needs throughout the region. Our work has helped raise awareness and provide resources related to disaster recovery, critical infrastructure, opioid addiction, food insecurity, human trafficking awareness, environmental conservation, healthcare access, and education.

At the heart of this work is a commitment to showing up. That has meant thousands of miles driven across back roads and interstates, countless hours spent listening to songs that carried us from one community to the next, and relationships built that have turned neighbors into lifelong friends. Along the way, we have helped distribute thousands of pounds of food, toys, and essential supplies to individuals and families in need.

Equally important is our dedication to Appalachian identity and Kentucky heritage. We actively promote and preserve regional art, craft folk, music, and storytelling by partnering with uniquely Kentucky and deeply Appalachian artists, businesses, venues, and community leaders. These efforts not only protect cultural heritage, but also strengthen local economies by supporting small businesses, local lodging, restaurants, and creative spaces in the communities we serve.

None of this work would be possible without the love, trust, and support of the people who have contributed their time, resources, talent, and belief in what we are building. Appalachian Pioneer Program exists to prove that when community leads, culture follows, and lasting impact becomes possible.

Our Mission

APP is committed to:

Promoting Health & Wellness – Offering programs in fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being.
Supporting Arts & Culture – Showcasing local musicians, artists, and storytellers.
Advancing Education – Providing learning opportunities and mentorship for all ages.
Encouraging Business Growth – Helping entrepreneurs and small businesses succeed.
Preserving Our Heritage – Celebrating and sharing the unique culture of Appalachia.

Over $50,000

Distributed directly to individuals and communities in need.

1,000+

Engaged through music, art, and local commerce initiatives.

Covering 24 Kentucky Counties & 4 States

Kentucky, West Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee

Services Provided

Disaster Relief & Critical Infrastructure Awareness
Opioid Addiction
Food & Security
Human Trafficking Prevention & Awareness
Environmental Conservation Healthcare Access
Education
Overall Preservation of Appalachian Culture
Local Commerce

Pioneer Sessions: Showcasing Appalachian Music

Music is the heartbeat of Appalachia, and Pioneer Sessions is our way of giving back to the artists who keep that heartbeat strong. This video series highlights some of the most talented musicians in the region, helping them reach new audiences while preserving Appalachian sounds for future generations.

Featuring artists like:

• Nicholas Jamerson

• Luke Trimble

• Bee Taylor

• Spooky Fox

• Don Rogers

• Hunter Flynn

• Jordan Allen

• Hannah Howard

• Emily Jamerson

• Cody Lee Meece

• Brother Smith

…and more!

Through Pioneer Sessions, we provide a platform for artists to share their craft while strengthening the cultural fabric of Appalachia.

What We Do

APP creates opportunities, preserves Appalachian traditions, and provides critical aid through flagship events and initiatives that bring communities together:

Hairston Hoedown - An annual festival featuring live music, local talent, and fundraising for community-driven projects.

Walk for Water - Raising awareness and support for clean water infrastructure in Martin County and beyond.

Strings in the Spring - Celebrating Appalachian culture through bluegrass music, art, and small business vendors.

Rockin’ Around The Mountain: Appalachian Christmas - A seasonal event delivering holiday cheer and support to underprivileged families.

Rockin’ Around The Mountain: An Appalachian Christmas (Album) - A special holiday album featuring Appalachian artists, celebrating the spirit of the season while supporting local communities.

Media Coverage

Our work has been featured in various publications and news outlets.

Check out our latest media coverage:

Our Partners

We are proud to collaborate with organizations that share our vision. Thanks to our partners for their support!

Brewing Community Support
We’ve worked alongside West Sixth Brewing, Country Boy Brewing, Ethereal Brewing, Blue Stallion Brewing, and Sawstone Brewing to raise funds and awareness for Appalachian communities.

Artists Giving Back
Some of Appalachia’s most respected musicians have stepped up to support our relief efforts, including: