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Our Goals

UAC has four main directional goals: Empowering Individuals, Strengthening Families, Developing Communities, Reforming Systems. Each of these goals is reflected in the programs and service work provided by UAC. UAC's programs provide building blocks for success. These building blocks start with individuals and, like strong Appalachian traditions, are passed on to families and the broader community.

You can help! UAC is a membership based organization. Individuals who contribute either time and/or resources may become a member. Visit our Support UAC page for more information on membership, donating, and volunteer opportunities, or call the UAC office at (513) 251-0202.

Project ACE (AmeriCorp Community Education)

Project ACE plays a vital role in every aspect of UAC's mission. The AmeriCorps members serve in all of our programs, plus an array of services provided by 10 other grassroots non-profits in Cincinnati innercity neighborhoods. They teach literacy to people of all ages, help academically struggling children with homework, tutor teen and adult dropouts who are preparing for the GED exam, guide inner-city youth in service learning initiatives, help residents of all ages design and carry out community projects, and assist with hands-on cultural programs such as creative writing and photography.

From September through August, UAC has 20 full-time equivalent AmeriCorps members working in the Cincinnati neighborhoods of Lower Price Hill, East Price Hill, Northside, Terrace Guild, North Fairmount, and the East End. A list of our current Americorp partner sites is available.

Over the years, AmeriCorps members have engaged hundreds of teenagers in leadership projects that have led to a documented improvement in their skills and self esteem. Project ACE members also recruit volunteers who in turn donate thousands of hours of service.

Visit the AmeriCorps web site at www.americorps.org

Adult Basic Education (and GED preparation)

UAC operates an Adult Basic Education Center in East Price Hill. UAC operates on a holistic philosophy, with individualized services to focus on each student's specific needs. The program offers individualized courses of study during day and evening hours in preparation for GEDs, as well as opportunities for adults to improve their literacy skills and further their education. Students are offered a well-rounded curriculum including academics, multi-cultural training, life skills training, and employability training. Individualized tutoring is also available. Services are offered free of charge and class participants can also waive the standard fee for taking the GED.

Workforce Development

This UAC program prepares participants for employment, allows students to gain skill to help them overcome barriers to employment and offers the opportunity for students to learn job retention skills. The program includes classroom instruction and practice such as practicing job interviewing, filling out job applications and resume building, as well as real world work experience tailored to meet the students' future job search needs. The program is open to self-referred individuals.

The job readiness program provides intensive case management and workforce development support to low income individuals who are struggling to move into stable jobs.

Human Services

UAC's Human Services component includes a wide variety of services designed to help our target communities. Among the many services are emergency assistance including bill assistance (when funds are available), food and staple item assistance and/or referral and client advocacy. Case management services assistance is provided for individuals who need it.

Family Connection (Family Development Program)

Family Connection is a support and family education series for families who want to improve their communication skills, build a team within their families and learn how to better problem solve. The program focuses on parenting skills and life skills, including groups developed especially for young mothers.

Cultural Diversity and Awareness and Artist Referral

UAC serves as a community expert and resource on Appalachian issues, and specializes in providing custom training sessions for teachers, students, hospital staff, social workers and other professionals. Our training sessions range from short overviews of Appalachia and Urban Appalachians to in-depth, hands-on educational sessions that focus on finding common ground and understanding while respecting and honoring cultural differences. Through UAC's arts residencies, multi-cultural and multi-arts disciplines are presented in inner city Appalachian neighborhoods. Additionally, a number of cultural events are presented in wider community venues to broaden the audience for, and appreciation of, Appalchian culture and arts. UAC is happy to connect quality Appalachian artists to those looking for education and/or entertainment. As with our training, UAC works with the organization to find an artist who best suits the needs of the educator or cultural programmer.

For more information about cultural and training opportunities please call the UAC office at 513-251-0202 or e-mail msmith@uacvoice.org.

Perceptions of Home: the Urban Appalachian Spirit

Perceptions of Home: the Urban Appalachian Spirit is a traveling exhibit and a valuable educational tool that tells the story of the migration of Appalachians. The exhibit features 20 families and individuals that made Greater Cincinnati their home away from home. Perceptions of Home can be showcased in schools, libraries, churches, businesses and other community locations.