Those Who Stayed: McDowell County, WV

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A new documentary highlighting the resilience, leadership, and innovation transforming Appalachia.

A new documentary is shining a light on a side of McDowell County, West Virginia, that rarely makes headlines. McDowell County, WV – Those Who Stayed tells the stories of residents, community leaders, and Black innovators who are revitalizing their communities and shaping the county’s future

Filmed across Welch, Kimball, Powhatan, Berwind, and Keystone, the documentary captures a wide range of voices. Jason Tart of T&T Organics and the nonprofit EDGE (Economic Development Greater East) stands out for his work in sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, and local economic development. Through EDGE, Tart and community partners are creating new pathways—from farming to entrepreneurship—that are rebuilding McDowell from the ground up.

The video also explores the Kimball World War I Memorial Building, the nation’s first and only memorial built to honor African American veterans of World War I. Once a vibrant community hub, the restored memorial today houses a museum and cultural center. It preserves the stories of service and sacrifice while also serving as a vital space for cultural tourism, education, and community leadership.

Beyond these landmarks, the film highlights residents who are building farms, mentoring youth, and leading grassroots initiatives across the county. Their work proves that resilience and ingenuity can thrive even in places often defined by decline. It offers a counter-narrative to the stereotypes pushed by algorithms about West Virginia and McDowell County, showing instead a culture of creativity, persistence, and innovation.

This documentary is a celebration of community, leadership, and grassroots innovation. It shows how the people who stayed in McDowell County are transforming their towns and building a brighter future for Appalachia.