Today we hear from Aaron Thoms, manager of CAP's Operation Sharing program. Aaron shares his CAP journey and the origins of Operation Sharing. Over the course of 30 plus years, Operation Sharing has delivered more than $2 billion worth of donated materials to more than 1.5 million people across all 13 Appalachian states and two Ozark states, Arkansas and Missouri. The program receives gift-in-kind donations to distribute from caring partners and corporations at warehouses in Corbin and Paintsville, Kentucky. These donations often include, but are not limited to: food, office supplies, household supplies, furniture, beverages, building supplies, hygiene items, and clothing. CAP's Operation Sharing Program partners with a network of more than 1,300 nonprofit organizations, community-based agencies, schools, and churches throughout the Appalachian region to deliver hope to people in need through the distribution of essential items. 

In today's episode of The Mountain Spirit, we sit down with Tom Vicini, President and CEO of Operation UNITE, to discuss the critical work being done to combat addiction and support recovery in Appalachia. With over 17 years of leadership at UNITE and decades of community service, Vicini shares insights into the challenges and successes of prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives in the region. Learn how innovative programs and grassroots efforts are making a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by substance use, and hear Vicini’s vision for building healthier, drug-free communities.

In this episode, we welcome Sandi Curd, Engagement Director at Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation and a trailblazer in community and economic development in Appalachia. Dr. Curd shares her wealth of experience working with local governments, nonprofits, and federal agencies to drive innovation and growth in Eastern Kentucky. Sandi discusses strategies for fostering collaboration as we address the region’s unique challenges. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about transforming Appalachia’s economic landscape and empowering its people.

Today's guest is Robyn Renner, director of Disaster Relief at CAP. Robyn shares the ways she serves God during times of disaster, leaning on her faith to help others. She has been on the ground during hurricanes from Katrina to Helene, she has mucked out homes during flooding in her home state of Kentucky, and even built homes in Haiti and El Salvador. From facing disaster of her own to traveling across the world to help people in need, Robyn continues to live out her faith every day. 

Today's guest is Matt Smith, lead pastor of Believers Church in Johnson City, TN, professor of Sociology at Big Sandy Community and Technical College, and a life-long Appalachian. Matt shares his struggle with substance use, and how God's call has been weaved throughout different moments in his journey. 

Visit Believers Church website here.

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Jackie Collier, CAP's first female chair of the board, kicks off Season 5 of The Mountain Spirit podcast. Today we get to hear about Jackie's leadership style and her career journey which led her into many positions of influence as the first woman in various leadership roles at both CAP and Berea College.