On June 2-3, 2009, Resourceful Communities convened its second Peer Learning Visit (PLV) in Western NC. Focused on Asset Based Development or "Making Do With What You Have," participants toured three sites to learn about creating programs that build on local assets and resources. Check out the slideshow on the right.
20 partners from across the state visited three peer host sites:
-- Jackson County Green Energy Park (JCGEP) in Dillsboro, NC
-- Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center (SVCAC) in Stecoah, NC
-- Smoky Mountain Native Plants Association (SMNPA) in Stecoah, NC
JCGEP captures methane gas from the old town landfill and uses the gas as fuel for a series of artisan studios, greenhouses, and other ventures.
SVCAC, housed in a community-restored schoolhouse, serves the community through their many programs, including educational classes for young and old, an arts and crafts gallery, heritage entertainment and rental and use of a commercial kitchen -- all with the goal to preserve and promote the Southern Appalachian mountain culture.
SMNPA uses the propogation of native plants and herbs to build locally owned enterprises to provide folks with sustainable incomes. They produce value-added products that have resulted in 64 seasonal jobs.
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