New Vision Renewable Energy is a West Virginia nonprofit that builds tiny homes and produces solar-powered Ray of Life lights while creating housing, job training, and mentorship for young people. Founded as a mentoring and job-training initiative in 1998 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in 2012, it grew from Appalachian community work into the New Vision Village, where young adults aging out of foster care can find a home and hands-on work in tiny-home manufacturing. Its Ray of Life lights, made in the USA, have reached more than 40 countries.
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Coalfield DevelopmentFounded in 2009 in a Wayne County apartment by West Virginian Brandon Dennison, Coalfield Development is a nonprofit rebuilding central Appalachia through workforce training, community-led construction and entrepreneurship. Its person-first programs help people facing barriers to employment gain paid, hands-on experience while abandoned places are put back to work. Headquartered in Wayne County, the organization says its efforts have helped attract more than $100 million in regional investment.HUNTINGTON, WV
Silicon SolarBorn from a high-school science project in upstate New York, Silicon Solar designs and manufactures solar energy products and custom solar systems, including its long-running SunPal sign lights and AquaJet fountain pumps. Founded in 1999 by Adam Farrell, the family-owned company now serves more than 150,000 customers and operates a New York manufacturing facility alongside international production partnerships. Its Bainbridge training center also reflects the company’s early roots in making solar technology accessible to students and teachers.BAINBRIDGE, NY
CellMyLight, IncBorn from a 2009 mission trip to Liberia, CellMyLight, Inc. makes a solar-powered flashlight that also serves as a portable phone charger and emergency power source. Founded by John and Jennifer Lafferty after seeing communities rely on generators, batteries, and unsafe lighting, the company designed its patented product for both disaster preparedness and outdoor use. CellMyLight says the flashlight is made in the USA and designed and tested to IP67, basic Mil-Std-810F, and ANSI FL1 requirements.THORNDALE, PA
Preston County Workshop IncFounded in a Kingwood basement in 1977, Preston County Workshop is a Reedsville nonprofit rehabilitation facility that provides supported employment while carrying out contract manufacturing and service work. Its workforce includes people with and without disabilities, with training built around meaningful jobs and community participation. The Workshop also operates the 32.14-acre Hickory Ridge Farm, where employees gain seasonal agricultural experience and harvested produce is graded and packaged off site.REEDSVILLE, WV