Brushy Fork was created in 1988 with a simple but powerful belief:
Appalachian communities already hold the wisdom and commitment to shape their own future.
Born from conversations led by former Berea College President John B. Stephenson and guided by founding director Carol Lamm, Brushy Fork launched as a team‑based leadership program rooted in participation, shared decision‑making, and real community projects. Named after the small creek near campus, Brushy Fork grew from a small pilot into a trusted regional resource—helping local leaders build skills, strengthen relationships, and turn good ideas into lasting action.
Brushy Fork Leadership Institute was created to support leadership development and community leadership across Appalachia. Over time, the Institute has developed leadership programs, technical assistance services, and regional initiatives that support nonprofits, leaders, and communities across Central Appalachia.
The Institute’s work has grown to include leadership programs, the annual Leadership Gathering, technical assistance and capacity building for nonprofits, and community leadership initiatives such as People Ready Communities.
Our Connection to Berea College
Brushy Fork Leadership Institute is part of Berea College and reflects the College’s Great Commitments, including service to Appalachia, leadership development, education, and community engagement.
Being part of Berea College connects Brushy Fork to a long history of education, service, and leadership development in Appalachia. This connection allows Brushy Fork to work across the region while remaining grounded in the College’s mission of service, opportunity, and education.
What Guides Us
Our Purpose and Vision
Our Purpose: Brushy Fork is Central Appalachia’s gathering place for leadership– a trusted partner where everyday people grow skills, share wisdom, and strengthen their communities and organizations through lasting change.
Our Vision: A thriving Central Appalachia.
Explore our strategic plan to see how we'll do it, together.
Our Values
How it maps to the Berea College Great Commitments
Honor the voice and vision of local people.
Description
We believe folks in Appalachian communities already have what they need to lead. They know their home, their people, and their hopes. Our job is to slow down, listen well, and help lift up the vision that’s already there.
What This Looks Like in Practice
- Creating space for people to share experiences and define their own priorities.
- Letting community members guide the direction—not outside agendas.
- Asking honest questions and listening with respect.
- Helping groups name their shared hopes and move toward them together.
How it maps to the Berea College Great Commitments
Value all people and emphasize understanding and equality.
Description
We treat everyone like they matter—because they do. Leadership grows when people feel welcome, respected, and able to show up as their full selves. We work to make sure opportunities aren’t just for a few, but for anyone ready to step forward.
What This Looks Like in Practice
- Creating spaces where every voice is invited and encouraged.
- Making our programs accessible, especially to folks not usually asked to lead.
- Being transparent and fair in how decisions are made.
- Building trust across differences so people can learn from one another.
How it maps to the Berea College Great Commitments
Engage community members in mutual learning, growth, and service.
Description
We show up as partners, not experts. Everyone teaches, everyone learns. The best ideas come from working side by side—sharing stories, asking questions, and figuring things out together.
What This Looks Like in Practice
- Co-creating workshops and plans with local partners.
- Encouraging learning through connection and conversation.
- Celebrating the gifts each person brings.
- Keeping relationships strong long after a project ends.
How it maps to the Berea College Great Commitments
Promote learning, innovation, and results through hands-on work in community.
Description
We learn by doing. When people try something new in their community—even small steps—confidence grows and real change begins. Action doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to start.
What This Looks Like in Practice
- Helping teams pilot ideas through easily understood, doable steps.
- Using simple tools to move from talk-- “good idea” to action-- “let’s give this a try.”
- Supporting leaders as they learn from what works (and what doesn’t).
- Celebrating progress and creativity and learning from failures.
How it maps to the Berea College Great Commitments
Encourage mindful living, zest for learning, and concern for others.
Description
Strong communities grow from caring for one another. Leadership starts with being present, curious, kind, and grounded. When people feel connected and supported, they lead with heart—and that kind of leadership lasts.
What This Looks Like in Practice
- Making time for reflection and connection in every gathering.
- Encouraging leaders to care for themselves and their communities.
- Creating welcoming spaces where people feel safe and energized.
- Honoring Appalachian culture and the relationships that hold us together.