Community leaders from across Northeast Kentucky have joined together to establish a new regional partnership focused on improving health outcomes, expanding access to services, and strengthening the overall well-being of residents throughout the FIVCO region.
The newly formed Northeast Kentucky Health & Wellness Alliance brings together healthcare providers, public health agencies, social service organizations, and community development leaders to address the complex challenges affecting the health and prosperity of the region.
Convened by FIVCO Area Development District, the collaborative effort includes representatives from the Ashland-Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup, and Lawrence County Health Departments; UK King’s Daughters; Three Rivers Medical Center; Pathways, Inc.; Ramey-Estep/Re-group; PrimaryPlus; Hillcrest-Bruce Mission; Family Resource and Youth Service Centers (FRYSC) Region 7; and other regional partners committed to improving quality of life throughout Northeast Kentucky.
The alliance was formed in recognition that many of the region’s most pressing challenges—including chronic disease, substance use disorder, mental health concerns, workforce participation, housing instability, transportation barriers, and access to care—require coordinated solutions that extend beyond the capabilities of any single organization.
The newly founded partnership will focus on identifying shared priorities, developing regional strategies, supporting grant opportunities, sharing data and best practices, and advocating for initiatives that improve both community health and economic well-being.
Among the alliance’s initial areas of focus are behavioral health and recovery support services, workforce development, rural healthcare access, healthy community initiatives, transportation coordination, and efforts to address the social determinants of health throughout the region.
The initiative also builds upon ongoing regional efforts, including Recovery Ready Community designations, substance use recovery initiatives, community health improvement planning, economic development strategies, and partnerships aimed at strengthening the region’s long-term resilience.
The alliance will continue meeting regularly throughout the year as members establish organizational priorities, identify collaborative projects, and develop a long-term framework for advancing health and wellness across the region. Organizations interested in learning more about the initiative or participating in future discussions are encouraged to contact FIVCO Area Development District.
==================
A new local effort is working to bring awareness, support, and resources to those facing mental health challenges in our community.
The Carter County Suicide Prevention Coalition is a team of local individuals and agencies working together to help prevent suicide and self-harm in Carter County. The coalition was formed in February of 2025, and since then, members have been focused on increasing awareness, highlighting available resources, and promoting mental health wellness and suicide prevention.
The coalition is inviting community members who are interested in learning more or getting involved in future efforts to take a brief interest survey. Your input can help the coalition better understand how local residents want to participate and support these important efforts.
To receive more information about the Carter County Suicide Prevention Coalition or to get involved, you can complete the interest survey by scanning the QR code available with this announcement, or contact the coalition at 606-474-6685, extension 111.
And remember, if you or someone you know needs support right now, help is available 24 hours a day by calling or texting 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Together, our community can help save lives and make sure no one has to face their struggles alone.
==================
Northeast Kentucky Community Action Agency is looking to add to its workforce, and the organization is now accepting applications for a new full-time Business Service Consultant position.
The position is based through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, or WIOA, and will be located in either the Grayson or Louisa Career Center, depending on the selected applicant’s location. The job serves Carter, Elliott, and Lawrence counties, helping local employers find qualified workers, connect with training opportunities, and strengthen their workforce.
According to the agency, the ideal candidate is someone who enjoys working with businesses, leading presentations, building relationships, and helping employers save money while developing the skills of their employees. Responsibilities include hosting job fairs, coordinating workforce development workshops, screening potential employees, and connecting businesses with state and federal workforce resources.
The position is Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Those interested can download an application from nkcaa.net and should submit an application and résumé to WIOA Business Solutions Director Bridget James and Executive Director Victoria Greene.
For anyone looking to build a career while making a difference for local businesses and communities, Northeast Kentucky Community Action Agency says this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.